Question 1

How much do Architects typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Architect fees vary for several reasons, but as of 2023 you can expect to pay an architect anything between 3% to 15% of your total construction costs.

Conceptual & Developed Design + Planning
You should factor in around 2-4% of your construction cost to cover this stage.

Tender Pack (GAs) Technical Design + Building Regulations
You should factor in around 5-7% of your construction cost to cover this stage.

Project Planning Assistance and on-site inspection
You should factor in around 3-5% of your construction cost to cover this stage.

Question 2

How long does a single storey extension take from start to finish?

Accepted Answer

Every project will take a different amount of time depending on many variables - however, you should be looking to allow 3 - 6 months from start to finish.

Question 3

How long does Planning Permission take?

Accepted Answer

Again, every project and council is different, as well as other factors like holidays etc., and Pandemics!
But as a rough indicator, planning permission can take from 4 to 12 weeks to come back - but you also need to remember, it may come back with considerations or refusal that will need to be attended to.

Question 4

What happens if our palnning application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If planning permission is refused there will be a reason specified which would be the starting point for coming to a solution.

Question 5

What is permitted development?

Accepted Answer

In the last few years, permitted development rights have expanded to encompass a wide range of projects. But, you’ll need to be sure your project meets the rules. If it veers beyond what is permitted, you will have to apply for full planning permission.

Not every home can benefit from the above permitted development rights. Notable exclusions include…
		Flats
		Maisonettes
		Listed buildings
If you live in a flat, maisonette or listed property, you’ll need to check with your Local Planning Authority whether permitted development rights apply. They may have been removed by what are known as Article 4 directions.

Homes in conservation areas will also find their rights limited or even suspended, and there might be restrictions on what can be done with certain new build developments.

If you live in a leasehold property you’ll need to get your leaseholders permission for major alterations.

The rules for permitted development vary depending on what you are looking to do. Generally it is always best to check on your local planning authority website for all the associated rules.

Question 6

What is a Lawful Development Certificate?

Accepted Answer

A Lawful Development Certificate is a way to be certain that the existing use of a building is lawful, or that your proposal does not require planning permission. A Lawful Development Certificate is not compulsory, but it can be useful to have.