Architect
If you’re planning major renovations like House Extension or Loft Conversion in your home then we recommend hiring an architect. Their specialised skills and training will ensure your ideas can be brought to life. Architect can help with Drawings and Specifications that will be basis to get more than one quote for the renovation work. We recommend you Architect who specialise in Home extensions, Kitchen extensions, & Loft extensions who have all the necessary elements to make it work. Architectural Service is the most important part of any major project and it is also the starting point for the major project. Architect can also deal with the local planners to gain planning permission and building control on your behalf. Architect can also help the Party Wall matters via recommended Party Wall Surveyors. Structural survey: If your project includes any major structural work, such as knocking down a wall or building an extension, then it's worth getting a structural survey completed. Not all cases require a survey so speak to your builder first. They'll be able to advise you on this. Extending your home will not only give you more space to live, it will also increase the value of your property if this done correctly.
Planning Permission
Most new buildings or major changes to existing structures or the local environment require consent, known as planning permission. Without a planning system, anyone could construct buildings or utilize land in any manner they choose, regardless of the impact on others living and working in the area. Your local planning authority is responsible for determining whether a development—ranging from a house extension to a new shopping center—should proceed.
You will likely need planning permission if you want to:
- Build something new
- Make a major change to your building, such as constructing an extension
- Change the use of your building
If your project requires planning permission and you proceed without it, you may receive an 'enforcement notice' requiring you to reverse all changes made. Ignoring an enforcement notice is illegal, but you do have the option to appeal. It is advisable to verify whether you need planning permission before starting your project.
To find your local planning authority, please click on: Find your local planning authority.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance with your architectural services, planning permission, and building regulations.
Building Regulations
A Building Regulation, also known as Building Reg, Building Control, or BC, is essential for major changes to your home, such as extensions, loft conversions, or basement conversions, requiring compliance with various regulation areas. We recommend applying through your architect or us, as skipping this important step can lead to significant financial losses and safety hazards. Bypassing these regulations may initially save money but can result in thousands lost in home value, fines, and making your home un-sellable. Building regulations ensure construction meets safety standards, guaranteeing your loft conversion is recognized by property valuers, estate agents, banks, and building societies. Building control safeguards public health and safety by enforcing comprehensive regulations governing materials, methods, and mandatory inspections. Key areas include design and planning, where proper consultation is crucial to avoid legal issues, structural stability requiring a structural engineer's input, fire protection ensuring safe escape routes and materials, insulation for heat retention and soundproofing, adequate ventilation to prevent condensation, and electrical safety with required certifications. Our business thrives on recommendations, and we are here to assist with planning applications, building regulations, and party wall matters.