Frequently asked questions

Not always. Many single-storey extensions on houses can be built under "permitted development", which allows certain work without a planning application, as long as it stays within set limits on size, height and position. As a general example, a single-storey rear extension can usually go back up to 3 metres from the original rear wall of a semi-detached or terraced house, or 4 metres for a detached house. Larger single-storey rear extensions (up to 6 or 8 metres) may be possible through a "prior approval" application, where the council consults your neighbours. Two-storey extensions, side extensions and anything outside the limits usually need full planning permission. Permitted development does not apply to flats or maisonettes.

Often not. Many loft conversions on houses fall under permitted development, provided the extra roof space stays within the limits (40 cubic metres for terraced houses and 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses, including any previous roof extensions), does not go higher than the existing roof, and meets other conditions, such as no balconies and no dormer on a roof slope facing the road. Rooflight conversions often need no planning permission at all. Larger dormers, mansards and roof changes at the front usually need planning permission.

They are restricted or removed in some cases, for example in conservation areas, for listed buildings, for flats and maisonettes, and where the council has made an "Article 4 direction" removing rights for certain streets. Some homes also had their rights removed when they were built. Always check with your local council.

You can apply to the council for a Lawful Development Certificate. It is not compulsory, but it gives you written confirmation that the work is lawful, which is useful when you come to sell or remortgage. It is often worth getting one before work starts.

Councils aim to decide most householder planning applications within 8 weeks of the application being validated. Prior approval for larger rear extensions has a 42-day period. Allow extra time for preparing drawings beforehand, and bear in mind that some applications take longer.

Yes, for almost all extensions and every loft conversion, even if you do not need planning permission. Building regulations cover structure, fire safety, insulation, drainage, ventilation and safe stairs. Approval comes from the council's building control team or a registered building control approver, who will inspect the work at key stages and issue a completion certificate at the end. Keep this certificate safe, as you will need it when you sell.

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies in England and Wales when building work affects a wall or boundary you share with a neighbour, or when you dig foundations close to their property. Typical examples are cutting steel beams into a shared wall for a loft conversion, building on the boundary line, or digging foundations for an extension near next door.

You (the homeowner) must serve written notice on the affected neighbours before work starts: generally at least two months before for work on a shared wall, and at least one month before for nearby excavation. Your neighbour can agree in writing, or dissent. If they dissent or do not reply within 14 days, a party wall surveyor (or one for each side) is appointed to agree a "party wall award" setting out how the work will be done. Talking to your neighbours early, before notices arrive, usually makes everything go more smoothly.

Normally the person carrying out the work pays reasonable surveyor costs for both sides. Your architect or a party wall surveyor can explain what applies to your project.

It depends on the size and type of work. Time on site is only part of it: drawings, planning, structural calculations and party wall matters come first and can take several months. We give you a realistic programme with your quote.

That depends on our current workload and on your approvals being in place. Get in touch early, even before your drawings are finished, so we can plan ahead together.

For most extensions and loft conversions, yes, though there will be some disruption, especially when the extension is opened up into the house or the new staircase goes in. For big refurbishments it is sometimes easier to move out for part of the job. We will talk this through honestly before we start.

We start with a visit to see your home and understand what you want. If you have drawings, we price from them; if you do not have drawings yet, we can give you an idea of what to expect and suggest next steps. You then receive a written quote setting out the work included.

Yes. Both the home visit and the quote are free, and there is no obligation.

It really depends on size, design, specification and what is involved structurally, which is why we price from drawings after a visit.

Items such as architect's and structural engineer's fees, planning and building control fees, party wall surveyor costs, and sometimes kitchens, bathroom fittings or flooring chosen by you are often separate. We will make clear what is and is not included in yours.

We are based in West London and work across London and the surrounding areas. Places we work in include Southall, Ealing, Hayes, Hillingdon, Uxbridge, West Drayton, Harrow, Greenford, Northolt and Hounslow. If you are not sure whether we cover you, just ask.

Yes. Fully insured, with public liability and employer's liability cover. Certificate available on request.

Yes. Every project comes with our 2-year workmanship guarantee. Where suitable, we can arrange 10-year structural cover through a third-party insurance-backed policy. We will only offer this where the policy is actually in place for your project.

The work is carried out by our core team of 8 people, working alongside trusted subcontractors. Every client is assigned a project manager as their day-to-day contact.

Everything is agreed in a written contract before work begins. A deposit is only taken once the contract is signed and work is starting, and stage payments are agreed with you up front.