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FAQ’S

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW DO I KNOW THAT I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?

We don’t want to sound washy about our answer but it is not as simple as a ‘yes you do’ or ‘no you don’t’. If for example your building is listed (English Heritage) then you will need planning permission to alter anything internally as well as externally, if you have a relative new property and wanted to build small extension then you would probably not need planning permission, you would probably be able to build under Permitted Development (see below). However if you wanted to build a major extension then you would probably need to apply for planning permission. Not simply is it?

If you have any questions about whether you might require planning permission give us a call and we will be happy to talk you through it.

WHAT IS PLANNING PERMISSION?

Planning permission is granted by your local authority and is designed to regulate the way our country is developed. Most developments i.e. major extensions or the erection of an out building would tend to need planning permission and it is important that you obtain these permissions before any work is started.

We can guide you through this procedure and answer any questions you may have.

WHAT IS PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT?

You can make certain types of minor changes to your house without needing to apply for planning permission. These are called "permitted development rights". These changes are restricted to certain ridge height, certain distance from boundary, certain eaves height etc depending on proximity to your boundary. Permitted development rights which apply to many common projects for houses do not apply to flats, maisonettes or other buildings.

If you have any questions about whether your proposed project falls within permitted development give us a call and we will be happy to talk you through it.

WHAT DO I DO NEXT TO APPLY FOR PLANNING PERMISSION AND HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

We will advise you on what is required by the local authority, we can prepare all the drawings, statements, supporting evidence and send off the application on your behalf working as your agent.

Your local authority should turn around any application in 8 weeks, sometimes if the application is complex the council can take longer. Standard extensions to dwellings usually fall within the statutory 8 week time period.

HOW DO I KNOW THAT I AM CHOOSING A COMPETENT BUILDER?

This is where we come in, we have struck up a very close rapport with competent builders and contractors we have used in the past, we would look to pass these contacts onto you to enable you to make an informed decision should you not have a builder lined up already.

HOW DO I KNOW THAT I AM NOT PAYING TOO MUCH FOR MY EXTENSION / NEW BUILD?

We would under normal circumstances ‘Go Out to Tender’ this is a process which involves a minimum of three builders. We would prepare a tender package which will comprise of the construction drawings, specification of works and any other documents to help the builders quote an accurate price for carrying out the building works. The builders will submit their quote to us as your agent and we would look over the quote and advise on the best value for money.