Question 1

How long does a planning application take in London?

Accepted Answer

Most householder applications take 8 weeks for a decision from the local planning authority (LPA). Larger or more complex projects can take up to 13 weeks. Delays often occur if drawings are incomplete. Our team prepares accurate plans and manages the application process to help you avoid unnecessary delays.

Question 2

Do I always need planning permission for a London extension?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Some works fall under permitted development rights, meaning no formal planning application is needed. However, in many London boroughs, Article 4 Directions remove these rights. Always confirm with your council or apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) for certainty. We check eligibility and prepare the right application for you.

Question 3

What is a householder planning application in London?

Accepted Answer

A householder planning application is the most common type of application for London homeowners. It covers extensions, loft conversions, garages, and other alterations to single houses. Each London borough council, such as Camden or Wandsworth, requires detailed drawings and forms before approval. Our fixed-fee service manages surveys, plans, and submission to the local planning authority (LPA).

Question 4

What happens after my planning application is approved?

Accepted Answer

Congratulations! Once you have planning permission, the next step is to prepare for construction. This involves creating a more detailed set of technical drawings for Building Regulations approval and for your builder to work from. While our core service focuses on securing the planning approval, we can advise you on this next stage and recommend trusted structural engineers or building control surveyors.

Question 5

What information do you need from me to get started?

Accepted Answer

For the initial Free Feasibility Check, all we need is your property address and a brief description of what you'd like to achieve. Photos of the existing property are also very helpful. This allows us to conduct a preliminary review of local planning policies and your property's history. If you decide to proceed, we will then schedule a full site survey.

Question 6

Can you guarantee my application will be successful?

Accepted Answer

No professional can ever guarantee a planning outcome, as the final decision rests with the local council. However, our expertise and thorough process are designed to maximise your chances of success. Our Free Feasibility Check is a crucial first step where we provide an honest assessment of the likelihood of approval. We will not advise you to proceed with an application that we believe has a low chance of success.

Question 7

Will I have to deal with the council directly?

Accepted Answer

No. As part of our service, we act as your official agent. This means we handle all correspondence and communication with the local planning authority on your behalf, from submission through to the decision. We take the stress and complexity out of the process for you and will keep you updated on any progress.

Question 8

What if my application is rejected?

Accepted Answer

We will refund your payment in full. While we have a very high success rate due to our thorough initial checks, planning can sometimes be unpredictable. If an application is refused, we will first review the decision notice to understand the council's reasons. Often, minor amendments are all that's needed. We will discuss the options with you, which could include submitting a revised application. Our goal is to be your partner through this process.

Question 9

How long does the entire planning process usually take?

Accepted Answer

To give you a clear timeline, the project kicks off as soon as you appoint us and the initial payment is made. The next step is the measured survey. After the survey is done, you can expect to see the finalized planning drawings in about 3-4 weeks. Once you're happy and give us your approval, we'll formally submit the application. The council's part of the process usually takes up to 8 weeks, but this varies between different councils.

Question 10

What's the difference between Planning Permission and Building Regulations?

Accepted Answer

This is a crucial distinction. Planning Permission deals with the principle of development – the appearance of the building, its size, and its impact on the local area. Building Regulations are about the technical construction of the building, ensuring it is safe, structurally sound, and energy-efficient. Our service is focused on securing Planning Permission. Once that is granted, you will need a separate set of technical drawings for Building Regulations approval before construction can begin.

Question 11

What drawings do I need for a planning application?

Accepted Answer

A typical planning application requires:
Existing floor plans and elevations
Proposed floor plans and elevations
Site/block plan
Location plan
 Our service includes measured surveys to ensure accurate scaled drawings accepted by London borough councils.

Question 12

Do garden outbuildings need planning permission in London?

Accepted Answer

Small outbuildings such as sheds, home offices, or gyms can often be built under permitted development, but rules apply to size, height, and location. In conservation areas or flats, permission is usually required. We advise if your outbuilding needs a full application or an LDC.

Question 13

How do I apply for planning permission in London?

Accepted Answer

You apply through your borough council, either online via the Planning Portal or directly to the LPA. The application must include scaled drawings, forms, and a fee. We manage the full submission for you, ensuring your project meets both national and borough-specific requirements.

Question 14

What are planning application fees in England?

Accepted Answer

As of 2025, a standard householder application fee is £258 in England. This is payable to the council, separate from professional drawing and planning services. Our team prepares all documentation and submits the fee on your behalf.

Question 15

Do conservation areas in London affect planning permission?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In conservation areas, even small works may require planning permission, especially for extensions, roof alterations, or windows. Boroughs such as Westminster, Camden, and Richmond have strict conservation policies. We prepare compliant designs and applications for sensitive areas.

Question 16

What is a planning refusal and can I appeal?

Accepted Answer

If your council refuses planning permission, you can appeal to the Planning Inspectorate. Common reasons include overdevelopment, loss of light, or impact on neighbours. Our experienced team can redesign drawings or prepare appeal statements to improve your chances of success.

Question 17

What is a Design and Access Statement (DAS)?

Accepted Answer

A Design and Access Statement explains the design principles of your proposal, covering layout, scale, and impact. Some councils require a DAS for larger or sensitive projects. We draft DAS documents where necessary, ensuring compliance with national and London planning policies.

Question 18

Do I need building regulations approval as well as planning permission?

Accepted Answer

Yes, planning permission and building regulations are separate. Planning focuses on appearance and local policy, while building regulations cover safety and construction standards. Most extensions require both. We handle planning; you will also need a structural engineer or building inspector for building regs.

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