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Undertaking an extension is an exciting endeavor, but it's important to be aware that the timeline can vary due to multiple factors and uncertainties. While no project has a guaranteed duration, the time required for a residential extension typically falls within a range of 7 to 15 months, and sometimes even longer. This variation is due to the intricate processes, different professionals involved, and the unpredictable nature of construction.

It's crucial to understand that the timeline can change based on the scope and size of your extension. However, gaining a basic understanding of the potential journey can help you prepare for what lies ahead.

Design Phase: 1 - 5 Weeks
After selecting an architect, your project starts taking shape on paper. The duration of this phase depends on whether you have existing property drawings as well as the complexity of your project. If you have them, you and your architect can proceed with the design. If not, a measured survey might be needed to obtain the necessary measurements.

Planning Approval: 8 - 10 Weeks
The planning process requires patience. It can take 8 to 10 weeks or even longer for approval. During this phase, there might be revisions requested by the planning authority. It's essential to address any permission conditions to ensure your project can proceed.

Technical Design: 1 Week - 1 Month
With planning approval secured, the focus shifts to building regulations and structural engineering. This stage ensures the build adheres to guidelines and remains structurally sound. 

Party Wall Agreement: 1 Week - 3 Months
If you're building near a shared boundary, a Party Wall Agreement might be necessary. While it can be straightforward, it's contingent on your neighbor's response. It's a crucial aspect to consider.

Tender Process: 2 - 4 Weeks
The tender process involves selecting a builder for your project. This period includes preparing documents and inviting quotes from multiple contractors, giving you the opportunity to evaluate costs and services.

Construction Phase: 2 - 4 Months
The construction duration depends on the complexity of your design, features, and the size of your extension. Elements like glazing can impact the time needed. It's advisable to choose a skilled contractor who can efficiently execute the construction.

Remember, this timeline is a guide, and your individual circumstances may differ. To avoid delays, thorough research is key. Consider hiring professionals who work efficiently and meet deadlines.

Ready to embark on your project journey? Contact us today to start planning your extension confidently.

Wondering about the need for Planning Permission? It's an important aspect of many developments, involving the approval of your local council. Here's the scoop: you'll either require Planning Permission or a certificate of lawfulness.

Let's dive into scenarios where Planning Permission is usually needed:

1. New Building Developments: Most new constructions fall under this category.
2. Extensions to Flats or Maisonettes: When adding or extending a flat or maisonette, Planning Permission is generally needed. (Note: Internal alterations or changes that don't impact the exterior appearance might be exempt.)
3. Dividing Your House for Separate Use: If you're carving out part of your home as a separate dwelling or hosting a dwelling like a garden caravan, Planning Permission applies. (Exceptions exist for letting rooms to lodgers.)
4. Business or Commercial Use: Opting for a business space within your home, such as a workshop? You'll typically need Planning Permission. The same goes for creating commercial vehicle parking on your property.
5. Contradicting Original Planning Permission: If your changes deviate from the original planning permission terms, you're back in the Planning Permission zone. For instance, erecting fences on an "open plan" estate with restrictions.
6. Impeding Road User Views: Any work that obstructs the view of road users may require Planning Permission.
7. New or Widened Access to Roads: Planning Permission could come into play if you're looking to create new or wider access to a trunk or classified road.

However, some alterations won't necessarily demand Planning Permission, like interior changes or minor exterior work such as installing telephone connections or alarm boxes. Keep in mind, though, that exceptions might arise for buildings within conservation areas, listed structures, or those of heritage significance.

Factors influencing the need for Planning Permission can be quite diverse and hinge on local authority plans. Considerations encompass neighbours, design, covenants, listed buildings, conservation areas, trees and wildlife, building regulations, rights of way, adverts and signs, ancient monuments, environmental health, licensed sites, and roads and highways.

For comprehensive guidance tailored to your situation, teaming up with professionals is key. With your vision and our expertise, navigating the realm of Planning Permission becomes a breeze.

 With Permitted Development rights, you gain the privilege to undertake various enhancements within your house, including loft conversions, side extensions, rear extensions, and even transforming your garage – all without the intricate web of planning permission.

The foundation of these rights traces back to the 1995 Town and Country Planning Act (General Permitted Development) Order 1995, ushering in a new era of property empowerment. Over time, amendments have been introduced, refining and adapting these rights to suit evolving needs.

It's important to understand that Permitted Development rights predominantly extend to houses, leaving out flats, maisonettes, and certain other structures. Listed buildings and properties within conservation areas also stand outside this sphere.

Stay attuned to the possibility that local planning authorities could curtail specific Permitted Development rights through an Article 4 direction. This directive compels you to seek planning permission for projects that would otherwise fall under permitted development. Article 4 directions emerge when preserving the character of a designated area becomes paramount, often within conservation zones. You might already be aware if your property is under such a direction, but seeking clarification from the local planning authority is prudent if any doubts arise.

At Get Rapid Plans, we're your compass when determining whether your proposed extension aligns with Permitted Development criteria and holds the label of "lawful." If your project fits within the parameters of permitted development, the next step involves an application for a "Certificate of Lawfulness" or a Certificate of Lawful Use from your local council. This application entails a meticulous set of scaled architectural drawings showcasing both the existing and proposed property layouts and changes. Our seasoned consultants are well-equipped to compile the required documentation and drawings, ensuring they meet the rigorous standards of your local council.

Contemplating the legality of building works is crucial – whether for seamless property transactions or to guarantee your project adheres to planning control regulations. While obtaining a 'Lawful Development Certificate' (LDC) isn't mandatory, it offers invaluable assurance to property owners. For instance, if works were performed on your property without planning permission and you're considering selling in the future, an LDC ensures a smooth transaction, sparing complications.

Residential extensions under lawful development applications incur a fee of £103, while Change of Use applications and those involving flats or HMOs are subject to a fee of £462.

A property might inadvertently breach planning rules but enjoy exemption from enforcement if "Established Use" is evident. This often occurs when properties are extended or converted without prior permission. In such cases, a Lawful Development Certificate can be sought from the council, highlighting evidence spanning 4 years for residential extensions and conversions, or 10 years for commercial and alternative uses.

At Get Rapid Plans, we're committed to amplifying your property's potential through the realm of Permitted Development. Discover a world where your visions align with reality. Connect with us today to embark on your journey to an empowered property transformation.

Certainly, there's a diverse array of extensions and conversions that can potentially transform your property. At Get Rapid Plans, we're here to guide you through the possibilities, ensuring you make informed decisions that align with your vision and budget. Here's a glimpse into the options available:

Extensions

1. Single Storey Rear Extension: Enhance your living area with a rear extension, providing more room for relaxation and activities.
2. Single Storey Side Extension: Expand your space laterally, creating room for new functionalities and experiences.
3. Loft Conversion with Dormer Roof Extension: Turn your loft into a functional space with the addition of a dormer roof extension.
4. Hip to Gable Roof Extension: Elevate your living space by transforming your hip roof into a gable design.
5. Basement Extension: Dig deep to create additional rooms or living space beneath the ground.
6. Garage Conversion: Repurpose your garage into habitable rooms, unlocking new possibilities for your home.

Conversions

1. Conversion of a House into Flats: Transform a single dwelling into multiple independent flats, maximizing use.
2. House into HMOs / Bedsits: Create a house of multiple occupation (HMO) to accommodate different tenants.
3. Conversion of Offices into Flats: Repurpose office spaces into comfortable living units.
4. Changes of Use: Alter the use of your property, from retail to offices, or even residential, based on your needs.
5. Garage Conversion to Habitable Room or Self-contained Unit: Turn a garage into a functional living space or separate unit.

Wondering about your property's potential? Our FREE advice session will help unlock the hidden possibilities within your space. We're ready to provide a no-obligation quote for our comprehensive services – from crafting architectural drawings to assembling application documents and securing planning permission

Let's have a chat about your plans and aspirations. Our team is thrilled to offer tailored advice for your proposed extension or conversion. We'll guide you on whether planning permission is required or if your project falls under Permitted Development.

Contact us today to set your property transformation in motion. 

It's important to acknowledge that predicting the outcome of a planning application isn't a guaranteed science. However, enlisting the expertise of a professional planner can significantly enhance your chances of success while gaining a comprehensive understanding of potential development avenues. Enter Get Rapid Plans – your strategic partner in this journey. We prioritize transparency and effectiveness, ensuring that we only take on projects with viable prospects, and we're forthright in communicating this to our clients.

Each planning officer in the department interprets regulations and guidelines uniquely, making outcomes somewhat unpredictable. But that's where Get Rapid Plans shines – we offer you the power of experience and knowledge, leveraging our proficiency in liaising with local councils, negotiating financial agreements, and navigating complex planning issues on your behalf.

While local councils provide a "Pre Application Advice" service, it's worth noting that the advice given isn't legally binding. Unfortunately, they might deviate from their initial suggestions, leading to frustration. Here's where our expertise stands out: we conduct rigorous feasibility studies and site appraisals to assess the potential of each development. This not only ensures a transparent process but also saves time.

The planning landscape is ever-evolving, with policies subject to constant updates. At Get Rapid Plans, we stay at the forefront of these changes, ensuring our knowledge remains current through continuous professional development and diligent research.

Uncertainty is the name of the game, as exemplified by the instance of a front-facing dormer application. Despite neighbours having similar features, changes in policies could lead to varying outcomes. We've got your back – our consultants offer insights into the likelihood of success, based on thorough analysis of policies, constraints, and material considerations.

Permitted Development rights are also under constant review, and we stay in tune with the latest discussions and policy implementations.

At Get Rapid Plans, we excel in uncovering development potential and providing tailored advice for optimal chances of planning permission. Remember, securing planning permission not only opens doors for property enhancement but instantly escalates property value – a substantial incentive for developers and homeowners aiming to sell.

Unlock the potential of your projects with Get Rapid Plans – where expertise, transparency, and success converge. Get in touch today for a FREE phone consultation: Call us at 07507 665812. Your planning journey starts here.