Where to begin, is sometimes the hardest part when deciding to start a house renovation/ extension or new build project. Most of our clients have never worked with an architect before and, like them, we know you will have lots of questions. We are here to help and with our experience and knowledge we will lead you through the entire process from start to finish.
The questions below are some of the most common ones we receive and these should give you an idea of what to expect and how we are able to help.
Pre-application advice is a service offered by most councils, which involves a formal meeting and written advice. It is the safest way to determine whether the proposal will gain permission if formally submitted as a planning application. It also provides an opportunity for the local authority to advise on issues, concerns and give direction. The planning process can be supported if the pre application proposal is received positively.
During the application process the local authority will advise of issues they deem reasons for refusal and if these can be changed under the submitted application. If not we have the option to withdraw the application or stick with the scheme hoping to go through an appeal process. If withdrawn they will advise what needs to be changed in order to gain approval. If withdrawn a free resubmission is application within 12 months of the withdrawal.
We specialise in residential developments with construction budgets of £100k - £5m. We have a proven track record delivering home extensions, flat conversions, HMOs, new build houses and flats developments. We take projects from the initial feasibility, gaining statutory approvals, to delivering the project on site.
Yes you can. If the manhole only serves your property you are free to move the manhole and reroute your drainage to it.
If the manhole serves more than your property you are required to gain approval from your local water authority fora build over agreement. If the building work is within 3 metres of or over the route of an existing public sewer or drain, approval from the local Water Company is needed prior to work commencing.
A party wall agreement is a legal requirement if you plan on carrying out any building work on or near a party wall or boundary. This can include placing a steel beam within a party wall or constructing new foundations with 3m or 6m of a neighbouring property.
Building regulations are approved documents that set the minimum standards for the design and construction of any building. They ensure the construction has been completed to the minimum standards for the health and safety of people. Approval is required for most building work in the UK, this can be discussed in our initial consultation.
You can expect to pay a build cost of around £1,800-£2,250 per m² depending on your location, project size, and finishes. At Ride Architects we provide our clients with a build cost estimate range which will give you an indication of what it could cost if you require an estimation on costs.
There are a number of different aspects that influence the fee however the two most common are:
· A fixed fee based on the percentage of construction cost – the fee for the design works from start to finish are usually between 6-12% of the construction cost. Depending on the complexity it could be higher.
· An hourly rate
Typically all properties have permitted development rights, which means you are able to develop your property within certain prescribed guidelines without planning permission.
For residential clients these could be single storey side or rear extensions, loft conversions and even adding a full storey above.
For commercial properties with a Class E usage, there are opportunities to convert these spaces for residential use until 31 July2022.
In our initial phone conversation we will discuss your specific project and rationalise exactly what you are looking for and how long it will take. Based on what you are looking to do and how complex the project is can determine the timeframes to expect.
For a small scale residential project typically it can take between 3-6 months for planning approval and 3-6 months for the construction.
For more complex residential projects such as new builds , it can take between 3-6 months for planning approval and 6-12 months for the construction.
If you are looking for apartment scheme timeframes these are very bespoke; we can review these in our initial consultation.
Once you get in touch, we request some more information from you and set up an initial call either in person or via a video call. We then talk you through what we feel is possible and how the process would work. We then provide a fee proposal in relation to your needs - all this is at no cost to you.
