Frequently asked questions:
Q. How can I find out if I need Planning Permission for my rear extension?
A. If you wish to, you can find this out yourself by phoning your local planning office, and with a few small details the duty planning officer can tell you if your proposed works need planning permission or not.
Q. What is the difference between Planning Permission and Building Warrant?
A. Planning Permission is only concerned with external changes to your property. It is not always needed for small works, even small extensions, depending on a number of factors. A Building Warrant is normally always required if you intend to erect, alter, extend, demolish or change the use of any part of your home. The information required for a Building Warrant is much more complex; U-value calculations, structural information, fire resistance, accessibilty standards, construction specification, drainage specification, electrical layouts, sound insulation, condensation risk analysis.... and more. Not all of these will be required for each project.
Q. Is your fee really a fixed price?
A. Fee quotes are generally fixed price, and do not change unless the remit of the work changes, i.e. a two storey extension instead of a one-storey one.
Q. Do I need to deal with Building Control or Planning during the application process?
A. Generally not, I would deal with their queries on your behalf. Once the application processes have been concluded, I hand over the paperwork to you. When you are ready to start the building works, there are forms, included in the paperwork, that need submitted by you to the council to notify regarding the start of works and also at the end.
Q. Do I need to pay an engineer separately?
A. Yes, although not all projects will require a structural engineers work, most will.
Q. When is Listed Building consent required?
A. If your home is Listed, then generally you would need Listed Building consent for any internal or external changes to your property. The council do not charge a fee for Listed Building consent applications.
Q. My home is Listed and/or I live in a Conservation Area, does this mean I can't make any changes?
A. Not at all, however it just might mean that it is trickier to make changes. We have plenty of experience with successful applications in challenging situations.
Let me know if you think of any further questions that you would like to see answers for.
home :: services :: portfolio :: faqs :: contact
Site designed by a-cubed design ltd, copyright 2005-2012
a-cubed design ltd is registered in Scotland, company no. : 290975
Loft Conversion, Newton Mearns
"A-Cubed Design's capability and efficiency eclipses all the other architectural service providers I've used in the past. Highly recommended!"
Mr and Mrs L
