FAQ’s

These are the questions we get asked frequently with regard to online planning regulation drawings and building regulations drawings.

Do I need a Site Survey?

Surveying is a broad term that simply refers to taking measurements and recording visual information. Whether carried out by a surveyor or an architectural technician, a survey can only capture what is visible. As a result, certain elements of a property will always require assumptions, regardless of whether an on-site visit takes place.

In many cases, photographs of the property can provide our designers with as much useful information as a site visit. Items such as drainage layouts, foundation details, and the composition of external walls are typically concealed and cannot be accurately verified through a standard visual survey alone.

The overall form and structure of a house can often be established by combining internal measurements, including window sizes, door openings, and wall dimensions. External factors that may influence the design, such as boundaries and neighbouring features, can then be referenced using Ordnance Survey mapping. External height levels can also be recorded as part of a self-survey process.

For more information on how to gather this data, please refer to our Self-Survey Guide.

Do my drawings have to be perfect?

Absolutely not! Even rough sketches are enough for us to work from. We can turn drawings of any quality into a finished design.

Will I need a Structural Engineer?

Every project is different, but as a general rule, if you are making structural alterations to your property, you will require structural calculations prepared by a Structural Engineer.

Typical projects that require structural input include:

Removing or altering load-bearing walls
Creating larger openings for doors or bi-fold doors
Removing chimney breasts or chimney stacks
Loft conversions
Extensions involving new structural elements
Installing steel beams or other structural supports

A Structural Engineer will assess the proposed changes and provide the calculations and drawings required to ensure the work is safe and complies with Building Regulations.

For smaller, non-structural alterations, a Structural Engineer may not be necessary. We can advise on your specific project and let you know whether structural calculations will be required.

Do I need an Architect to visit?

In most cases, an on-site visit is not necessary. We can provide all the architectural expertise needed using the information you supply about your home, including measurements, photographs, and details of your proposed project.

Our team can produce accurate drawings and design proposals remotely, saving you both time and money while still delivering a professional service. If required, we can guide you through the information we need and provide a self-survey guide to help you gather it.

Should your project require any additional information, we will advise you at the appropriate stage.

Do I need Building Regulations?

For a full and comprehensive explanation, please refer to our Building Regulations Guide, which covers everything you need to know in detail.

In short, not all building projects require Building Regulations approval. Some minor works and alterations may be exempt. However, most projects involving structural changes, extensions, loft conversions, garage conversions, or other significant alterations will require approval from Building Control.

Once the work has been inspected and approved, Building Control will issue a completion certificate. This document is important as it confirms that the work complies with current Building Regulations.

Without the appropriate approvals and certification, you may encounter difficulties when selling your property, remortgaging, or obtaining buildings insurance in the future.

If you’re unsure whether your project requires Building Regulations approval, we can help assess your plans and advise on the requirements.

Do I need Drawings?

While it is possible to carry out building work without drawings, having a clear set of plans is highly recommended.

Professional drawings ensure that your ideas are properly communicated and that your builder understands exactly what is required. They also help avoid misunderstandings, unexpected costs, and mistakes during construction.

In addition, Building Control officers use drawings to assess and inspect the work against approved standards, helping to ensure compliance with Building Regulations where required.

Put simply, good quality drawings provide clarity for everyone involved in the project, helping to achieve the design you want while ensuring the work is completed correctly and efficiently.

Do I need Planning Permission?

We can advise whether your project requires planning permission, a Permitted Development enquiry, Prior Approval (Prior Notice), or a change of use application during our initial free consultation.

Many home improvement projects can be carried out under Permitted Development rights, while others may require formal planning consent. The requirements depend on factors such as the type of work proposed, the location of the property, and any planning restrictions that may apply.

For a more detailed explanation of the planning process, please see our Planning Guide.

You can also explore the Planning Portal’s interactive house guide, which provides useful information on common household projects and planning requirements:

Interactive House Guide
https://interactive.planningportal.co.uk/

If you’re unsure what approvals your project may need, contact us, and we’ll be happy to discuss your proposals and guide you through the options.

What Drawings Do I Need Before Getting Quotes From Builders?

The more detailed your drawings, the more accurate the builders’ quotations will be. As a minimum, we recommend obtaining existing and proposed drawings that clearly show the scope of the work.

For most projects, builders will typically require:

Existing and proposed floor plans
Existing and proposed elevations
Site or block plans (where relevant)
Basic construction details
Structural engineer’s drawings and calculations (if structural work is involved)

For larger or more complex projects, a Building Regulations drawing package is highly recommended. These drawings provide greater detail on construction methods, materials, insulation, and structural requirements, helping builders prepare more accurate quotations and reducing the risk of unexpected costs during construction.

Providing the same set of drawings to several builders allows you to compare quotations on a like-for-like basis, making it easier to identify the best value and avoid misunderstandings.

If you’re unsure what level of drawings you need, we can advise on the most appropriate package for your project and budget.

How long will it take?

Once we have received all the required information, we can normally prepare and submit your Planning Application or Building Regulations package within 2 to 3 weeks.

Timescales can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as how quickly any additional information or decisions are provided. We will always keep you informed of progress throughout.

If you need your drawings sooner, we also offer a fast-track service to help meet tighter project deadlines.

For an estimated timescale specific to your project, please get in touch, and we will be happy to advise.

NOT FOUND YOUR ANSWER?

If you can’t find your answer here, then please do get in touch.