INITIAL MEETING
Every project starts the same – with an initial conversation, during which I arrange to meet with you at your property to discuss your thoughts, ideas and budget.
During the meeting, I will be able to give you an idea of what is possible, as well as potential challenges. I approach all of projects with openness and I will not simply tell you what you want to hear.
I will discuss time scales, cost, as well as talk about the various statutory obligations. I will also outline my role and what other consultants may be required during each workstage.
Following the meeting, once I have gathered your brief, I will send you my fee proposal via email. It will include your brief, details of my services, costs and additional information that I think you may need to consider.
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DESIGN AND PLANNING
Following my appointment, I will undertake a measured survey of the property. This will allow me to note down all the important elements of the existing property and gather any other information about your site.
I will then prepare a set of proposed planning drawings which I aim to email over 1 week after the measured survey meeting. Working with your feedback, I continue to tweak the proposals until we have a final developed design.
Once the layout and materials for the main built elements are agreed, I will submit the proposals to the local authority for the planning or lawful development application.
Applications are usually determined within 8 weeks.
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BUILDING REGULATIONS AND DETAIL
Once we have planning approval, it’s time to detail the drawings for the structural engineer and Building Control.
The building regulations drawings will be prepared based on the approved planning documents. A structural engineer will be required for this stage of work; I will advise if any other consultants are required. Together with the structural engineers drawings and calculations, a full plans building control application will be submitted to Building Control.
I work with the structural engineer and building control, to ensure that your project complies with the regulations. The application is usually determined within 4 weeks.
The basic package includes plans, sections, elevations and notes. If needed, I can prepare electrical and lighting layouts. The more information that can be provided to the contractor, the more accurate their tender price will be.
For avoidance of risk it is usually best to commence this stage of work after the planning application is granted.
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