How we can help.
The planning and construction process can be complicated and stressful. Having decided that you wish to extend or convert your property, we can guide you through the process. If you need help when building works are ongoing we can liaise with your builder and suggest solutions to the inevitable problems which are encountered during a project, providing a tailor made service whatever your requirements.
Do you require Planning permission?
Permission will be required if you intend to extend or alter the property and it exceeds certain limits and conditions, if the property is listed or if it is within a conservation area? Certain extensions can be built without Planning Permission, details can be found by following this link (Permitted Development) although we would advise applying for a "Certificate of Lawful Development" in such cases to ensure there are no problems in the future when you come to sell the property. We can advise and liaise with the Local Authority on your behalf, prepare the drawings and submit the required applications. The Local Authority Planning fees depend on the type of application, details can be found by following this link (Planning Fees)
The planning and construction process can be complicated and stressful. Having decided that you wish to extend or convert your property, we can guide you through the process. If you need help when building works are ongoing we can liaise with your builder and suggest solutions to the inevitable problems which are encountered during a project, providing a tailor made service whatever your requirements.
Do you require Planning permission?
Permission will be required if you intend to extend or alter the property and it exceeds certain limits and conditions, if the property is listed or if it is within a conservation area? Certain extensions can be built without Planning Permission, details can be found by following this link (Permitted Development) although we would advise applying for a "Certificate of Lawful Development" in such cases to ensure there are no problems in the future when you come to sell the property. We can advise and liaise with the Local Authority on your behalf, prepare the drawings and submit the required applications. The Local Authority Planning fees depend on the type of application, details can be found by following this link (Planning Fees)
Do you require Building Control Approval?
Generally for most building work you will require approval. This can be obtained from either the Local Authority Building Control Officer or via an "Approved Inspector" These are government certified inspectors who are qualified to ensure works are built to meet the requirements of the current Building Regulations via either a Building Notice for simple works or a Full Plans submission for more complex projects. Whichever route is the most suitable for your project, we will carry out the appropriate consultations, prepare the drawings and liaise with other consultants as required. Typical Local Authority fees for Building Control approval can be found by following this link (LB Sutton Building Control Fees)
Generally for most building work you will require approval. This can be obtained from either the Local Authority Building Control Officer or via an "Approved Inspector" These are government certified inspectors who are qualified to ensure works are built to meet the requirements of the current Building Regulations via either a Building Notice for simple works or a Full Plans submission for more complex projects. Whichever route is the most suitable for your project, we will carry out the appropriate consultations, prepare the drawings and liaise with other consultants as required. Typical Local Authority fees for Building Control approval can be found by following this link (LB Sutton Building Control Fees)
How do you find a good builder?
This is the most difficult question and one which we are asked the most. It is best done by recommendation from someone who has had similar work carried out recently. Try to get personal recommendations from friends or neighbours. Ask for references and a list of recently completed works, make sure you check these out. Make sure you enter into a legally binding contract with the builder, there are simplified building contracts specifically designed for the homeowner, details can be found by following this link (Homeowner Contracts). A builder who is not willing to sign a contract is probably best avoided.
This is the most difficult question and one which we are asked the most. It is best done by recommendation from someone who has had similar work carried out recently. Try to get personal recommendations from friends or neighbours. Ask for references and a list of recently completed works, make sure you check these out. Make sure you enter into a legally binding contract with the builder, there are simplified building contracts specifically designed for the homeowner, details can be found by following this link (Homeowner Contracts). A builder who is not willing to sign a contract is probably best avoided.
Follow this link to see some examples of (typical projects) and if you think we can help, please feel free give us a call to discuss your requirements or use our contact form and we will get back to you.
Architectural services in Surrey, Cheam, Sutton, Belmont, Banstead, Epsom, Ewell, Carshalton, Carshalton Beeches, Wallington, Kingswood, Chipstead, Reigate, Wimbledon, Merton, Kingston and Croydon
