How long does planning take?
This will depend on the application type, e.g. Local Councils' guidelines for a standard Householder application for one and two storey extensions are 8-12 weeks. However, this is highly dependent on the planning department’s workload, so sometimes can be longer. We do our best to keep clients updated throughout the whole procedure. With any questions or changes requested by the LPA relayed directly to you.
How much will our extension cost?
How long is a piece of string? Each project is different in many ways, including cost, finishes and budget. That being said, based on current quotes we have recieved in the last 6 months, we can confidently say to expect between £2000-2200 per sq meter. This is usually to first fix, and not including fixtures or fittings for e.g. Electricals and Kitchens.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes! We are happy to discuss your potential project free of charge. Initial consultations can be done over the phone, via video call or a site visit, depending on where you’re located. We prefer to discuss your requirements and see if we are a correct fit for you over the phone or email prior, and then arrange a visit to the property or site in question.
Are you insured?
Yes, we carry full Professional Indemnety Insurance to cover all of our drawings produced. Certificates of this can be provided at your request.
Are there any 'hidden' fees?
All of our fees are fixed! Our fee proposal and terms of engagement clearly sets out what is and isn’t included within our scope of works. What we quote you is what you will expect to pay us, unless the agreed scope of works changes. We do not take external consultants fees on behalf of our clients, these are paid directly between you and the companies applicable. External fees you may expect to pay are as follows: · Structural Engineers (Usually £500-900) · Building Control (Usually £600-800) · Possible fees to local water authorities, in the event of any build-over requirements. · Planning Application Fees · Party Wall Surveyors
How long does the design process take?
On acceptance of our fee proposal, we aim to survey the existing site or property within a week (or within your availability), once this is complete, initial proposals are expected to be completed between 2-3 weeks from survey date. From here on, timescale depends on revisions and correspondance, but usually from engagement to planning submission, 5 weeks is average.
What happens if the application is refused?
We try our best to ensure that the design submitted has the highest chance of approval but abiding by Planning Guidance, but sometimes on rare occasion this doesn't work out for a variety of reasons. If an application is refused, you have 12 months to submit another 'free go' application of a revised scheme, along with 12 weeks to prepare and submit an appeal should you wish to do so. Fees for either of the above are charged on an hourly basis, as sometimes minimal changes need to be made, but changes and scope can vary massively. We do our utmost best to ensure we obtain the best outcome for your application.
Do you suggest contractors?
Once your planning has been obtained, we do have a list of select contractors that we have previously used for projects, and will be more than happy to obtain prices on your behalf. We do however encourage you to obtain your own contractor quotes, ensure you have checked references, inspected previous work and talked to the contractors previous clients to make sure you are in safe hands and feel comfortable with your choice. We are also happy to 'vet' any contractor you are interested in working with. We understand your project is involving your hard earned money, and you want to feel safe in the knowledge you're getting the best work that you're paying for.