Advice Center

Advice Center

All you need to know about tree surgeons, arboriculture, and TPO trees

17th March 20220

What is a tree surgeon?  

Tree surgery is a highly specialised job that requires evidence of the correct knowledge, skills, and experience. A tree surgeon carries out various work on trees, including identifying hazards, assessing the tree’s health, planting, felling, pruning, and maintenance.  

The difference between an arborist and a tree surgeon –  

What is arboriculture?  

Arboriculture is the cultivation, management, and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other woody plants.  

Although many people think the two jobs are the same, they’re actually quite different. An arborist requires more formal education, in order to be certified, they must go through extensive training. Such as,  

  • Firstly. courses in tree biology, tree growth patterns, and much more  
  • A long certification program with the international society of arboriculture  
  • Pass the final exam after the program  
  • Finally, continue with ongoing education to maintain certification  

The arborist assesses the trees and their condition. If the trees are showing signs of a disease or insect infestation, the arborist is able to diagnose it and create a treatment plan.  

Whereas a tree surgeon may not have as many requirements as an arborist, they still require extensive experience and knowledge. Tree surgery must be performed by a trained hand. Tree surgeons are responsible for accurate removal. They know how to cut down trees so it doesn’t damage nearby buildings or other trees.  

Generally, an arborist will take their diagnosis and give it to a tree surgeon, who will take the course of the treatment.  

Tree protection orders (TPOs) 

Some trees have TPOs placed on them by local authorities, to ensure the responsible management of trees in the area. To carry out any work on the trees, permission must be sought out from the local authority before work commences. Any trees in conservation areas must be treated the same as those with TPOs.  

A TPO makes it a criminal offense to cause or permit someone to cut down or uproot trees protected by that order, without the local authority’s permission. Anyone found guilty of such an offense is liable to prosecution, and an unlimited fine.  

How much is a TPO fine?  

The maximum fine for destroying trees is £20,000. And it costs £2500 for anyone who doesn’t completely destroy trees but has carried out some other works without consent.  

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Advice Center, Planning Permission

Learn all about permitted development rights

4th March 20220

What are permitted development rights?  

Permitted development rights are an automatic grant of planning permission that allows certain building works and changes of use to be carried out without having to make a planning application.  

What you can do under permitted development –  

While it’s essential to check with your local council first, permitted development rights should provide you with automatic planning permission for:  

  • Firstly, a small extension  
  • Single storey extension  
  • Double storey extension  
  • Demolition  
  • Certain change of use  
  • Loft conversion  
  • Garage conversion  
  • Basement conversion  
  • A porch less than 3m3  
  • Internal alterations  
  • Finally, rooflights or dormer windows not facing the highway  

When are the rights more restricted?  

In some areas of the country, generally known as designated areas, permitted development rights are more restricted. For example:  

  • A conservation area 
  • National Park  
  • Area of outstanding natural beauty  
  • Or a world heritage site 

You will need to apply for planning permission for certain types of work that don’t need an application in other areas. There are also different requirements if the property is a listed building.  

How much can you extend under permitted development  

For a large single-storey rear extension on a detached house, you can extend between 4m up to 8m. Whereas, for any other house can be extended 3m up to 6m, under permitted development. However, for larger projects, you may be likely to go through the neighbour consultation scheme. If your neighbours raise concerns, then your local authority will decide whether your plans can go ahead.  

In addition, you can build a single-storey side extension up to half the width of the existing dwelling. A single-storey rear extension up to 4m in length for a detached dwelling and 3m long for a semi or a terrace house; and, in certain circumstances, 3m two-storey rear extensions.  

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Advice Center

All there is to know about listed building consent

25th February 20220

listed building consent definition  

Listed building consent is required for all works of demolition, alteration, or extension to a listed building. That affects its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest.  

What is a listed building?  

A listed building is a building or structure that has been judged to be of national importance in terms of architectural or historic interest.  

Historic buildings also add to the quality of our lives. Being an important aspect of the character and appearance of our towns, villages, and countryside.  

In England and Wales, there are 3 categories of listed buildings – 

  • Grade 1 (2.5% of buildings)- Buildings of exceptional interest. For example, the Liverpool Anglican cathedral.  
  • Grade 2*(5.5% of buildings)- Buildings with particular importance. For example, Buckingham Palace.  
  • Grade 2 (92% of buildings)- Buildings of special architectural or historic interest. A grade 2 listed building is a UK building or structure that is of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve it. 

You always need listed building consent  

You still need listed building consent to do urgent works to a listed building. Even if the works are needed because a dangerous structure or other legal notice has been served. Even if it’s not practical to get consent in advance, you must give written notice to the council as soon as possible.  

It is a criminal offense to carry out work without having listed building consent. Not all projects require consent, only the works that affect the character of the building.  

Carrying out building works to a listed building or changing it in any way without consent can result in court action and legal penalties. And it is also illegal to fail to comply with an enforcement notice.   

According to the planning act 1990 under section 9. Doing work without consent to the building can result in a person, being fined up to £20,000. And/or up to 6 months imprisonment.  

In addition, the maximum penalty is two years’ imprisonment or an unlimited fine. In determining the fine a judge must have regard to any financial benefit which has accrued or appears likely to accrue to the wrongdoer so as to deny them any benefits.  

It is also an offense for anyone who would do damage to a listed building. Or to do anything which causes or is likely to result in damage to the building with the intention of causing damage. Damage to the building by an unauthorised person other than the owner or occupier would be criminal damage under the Criminal Damage Act 1971. 

Advice Center

The Party Wall Agreement

25th February 20220

What is the party wall agreement? 

The party wall act was designed in England and Wales to legally settle construction disputes between neighbours. Sometimes, carrying out building work can be loud, messy and quite disruptive. This can cause a dispute between you and your neighbour when they start to complain.  Furthermore, this act prevents this from happening and is settled legally. If your neighbour complains to your local council with a valid reason of why your project would affect them, they can stop you from starting. 

Reasons why your neighbour might complain  

  • Firstly, noise  
  • Lack of light  
  • Lack of privacy  
  • Could affect their home. For example, change their foundation or look of their home. 
  • Finally, damage to their home  

Will this act stop my project? 

There is a chance your neighbour could stop you from carrying out building works if you live in a semi-detached, terrace, flat, or your detached home is close to your neighbours’ properties. Before starting building works you must serve your neighbour a notice so they know that building works are going to be carried out. After this, your neighbour has 14 days to say that don’t agree after the notice has been served. So, other things you need to think about that can stop your project is: 

  • Floors and ceilings  
  • Shared boundry walls 

Building works that come under the party wall act 

  • A loft conversion that means the boundry wall will need to be worked on  
  • Adding another storey which is on the boundry wall 
  • Changing your homes foundation  
  • Rebuilding a boundry wall 

What is a party wall? 

In addition, a party wall is a boundary wall that separates adjoining homes. So, technically speaking you only own one half of the wall meaning, if you’re wanting to carry out any works on that shared wall you will need to ask your neighbour for consent. 

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Advice Center, Extensions

Common mistakes made by people when extending their home

24th February 20220

Extending your home is a big project and can cost you a lot of money. So, here is a list of common mistakes that you may want to avoid.  

Having an unrealistic schedule  

It is common knowledge that building work can be unpredictable and can take longer than expected. There are some things you can’t just predict or plan. Having an understanding of this from the beginning of the project can help you prepare for delays. For instance, having a positive and chilled attitude will help form a better relationship with your contractor.  

Rushing the design  

If you’ve recently purchased a property or moved into a new home, you should live in the home for a while before extending or renovating. This is so you can get a real insight into what changes you want to make to the property. By waiting a year or so, you can see how the house stands and works throughout the seasons and different weather types.  

Upsetting the neighbours  

You must always inform your neighbours about any renovation that is going to take place on your property. Regardless of whether you get along with them or not. Often building works can be disruptive to your neighbours and their properties. So, to make sure no conflicts occur you should be aware of and get a party wall agreement. The agreement with your neighbours usually takes place in letter form and can be done by a third party such as a party wall surveyor.  

Going over your budget  

Running out of money when you are halfway through a project can be one of the worst things that can happen. This is why ensuring that you get fixed quotes and estimates from the beginning is vital. Before you start your project, it is important to have a contingency fund available just in case anything unexpected comes up.  

Not researching tradespeople properly  

It can often be tempting to choose a cheap builder so you can save a bit of extra money. However, employing a skilled professional is a good investment, so you can avoid unfinished or bad-quality work. You should choose a trade person based on their previous work and trusted recommendations.  

Image credit: Simon Burt

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Advice Center

A Guide To Houses In Ashford Kent

23rd February 20220

Are you wanting to move or buy a house in Ashford? If you are here are different types of houses explained so you know what’s most suitable for you.  

Semi-Detached Houses In Ashford 

A semi-detached house is a property that shares at least one wall with an existing property. The homes that are connected are usually mirror images of each other. Semi-detached homes save space and are cheaper than detached homes. These homes are very popular and provide an adequate level of privacy. However, the average cost of a 3-bedroom semi-detached house in Ashford is around £300,000. The only really downside to a semi-detached home is that it is a possibility that you could hear your neighbours if they are really loud. 

Detached Houses In Ashford 

Detached homes are structures built by themselves. No shared structural walls or hearing your neighbours what so ever. They have a great deal of space and privacy. And, most have front and back gardens for you to enjoy. The average value of a 3-bedroom detached homes in Ashford are around about £375,000. Detached houses are generally more. 

Terraced Houses  

Terraced homes are one of the most common and popular homes in the United Kingdom. They save a lot of space in the community. However, parking your car can be a nightmare at the front of your home. Terraced homes have a wall on each side connected to another home, essentially making a row of houses. The average value of a 3-bedroom terraced house in Ashford is £325,000. 

Flats  

Flats are one of the most known about homes in England. These homes are usually given to people that live alone or have a small family. Flats are often being offered as a series within a single building. But, flats are known for their space-saving qualities. The average value of flats in Ashford are around £200,000. There are many different types of flats as well such as, converted, split-level and studio flats.

Bungalows In Ashford  

Bungalows are single-storey detached homes. The difference between a bungalow and detached home is that a bungalow is a lot smaller with usually no stairs. These homes are usually very small having a small number of rooms However, you may have an attic. This home is quite popular to older people as it is small. however, it has no stairs to get up. The average value for a 3-bedroom bungalow in Ashford is around £300,000. 

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Advice Center

How to get planning permission on green belt land Kent?

22nd February 20220

Over the years there are a large number of misunderstandings about the purpose of green belt land, and whether you can get planning permission for it. While green belts are extremely important and should be preserved to protect the countryside and urban areas. There are circumstances, that extensions and alterations can be permitted.  

A strategic land availability assessment must consider the following factors:  

  • Firstly, flood risk  
  • National parks  
  • Heritage coast 
  • Heritage assessment  
  • Sites of special scientific interest 
  • Areas of outstanding natural beauty  
  • Finally, protected sites (birds and habitat directives) 

local planning authorities shouldn’t approve the construction of new buildings unless they propose the following exceptions: 

  • Firstly, Agricultural buildings 
  • Limited infilling in some villages 
  • Facilities for outdoor sport and recreation  
  • The replacement of an existing building by one that is not materially larger 
  • The extension or alteration of an existing building.
  • Facilities for cemetaries

Why would you want to develop on green belt land?  

The main reason people want to develop on this land is because it is cheap. For example:  

A 15-acre site in Epping has a guide price of £145,000. 

As green belt land that works out to be £0.22 per square foot. 

And if it got residential planning approval it could be worth £570 per square foot. 

How to get planning permission?  

The national planning policy framework states that “inappropriate development is, by definition, harmful to the green belt and should not be approved except in very special circumstances”.  

An experienced architect or architectural technologist can usually get you planning permission to make reasonably sized additions to your house or to replace it with something larger.  

In addition, securing new development on green belt land will depend on aspects of design quality. There is a presumption in favour of development for buildings or infrastructure that promote high levels of sustainability.  

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Advice Center

The top types of concrete cement you should know about

8th February 20220

Concrete is the most popular building material around the world. Concrete is made of cement, water, and coarse aggregates. When mixed together, they create a construction material that hardens over time.

How much water and cement you use determines the properties of concrete, such as:  

  • Strength 
  • Durability 
  • Workability  
  • Resistance to heat or radiation. 

There are several different types of concrete, even though they look very similar. Here are the most common types: 

  • Reinforced concrete –  

This is concrete in which metal bars or wire is embedded to increase its tensile strength.

In addition, it’s used for construction on a large scale. Such as bridges, dams, tall buildings, and stadiums. This concrete has the following properties:

High relative strength

Good bond to the concrete

High toleration of tensile strain

Thermal compatibility

Durable

  • Lightweight concrete  

Lightweight concrete is a mixture made with lightweight coarse aggregates. Such as shale, clay, or slate, which gives it its characteristic low density. This concrete has an in-place density of 90 to 115 lb/ft3. This makes it ideal for building modern structures that require minimal cross-sections in the foundation.   

  • High-strength concrete  

In addition, HSC is a strong, hard-wearing blend of cement and 10mm coarse aggregate. High-strength concrete can resist loads that normal-strength concrete cannot.  

  • Hight-performance concrete  

A concrete mixture that has high workability, high strength, and high density. This has a lot of benefits such as,

Firstly, ease of placement

Long term mechanical properties

Early age strenght

Toughness

Finally, life in severe environments

  • Precast concrete (PC)  

In addition, precast concrete is prepared, cast, and cured off-site. Usually in a controlled factory environment, using reusable moulds.

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Advice Center, Architecture & Building

The difference between an architect and an architectural technologist

4th February 20220

Here at Pro Arkitects we have in-house design technologists that work on all of our amazing designs and projects. In this blog, it will explain the differences between an architect and an architectural technologist.  

Architect – 

What does the title architect mean?  

Firstly, an architect is a qualified professional obliged to conduct their services under the rules of a code of conduct. The title architect is protected by the architect’s registration board (ARB). 

How to become an architect?  

To call yourself an architect you must pass the standards set by the ARB, by completing parts 1,2, & 3 of the educational programs. Typically, depending on the curriculum and length of the program you choose to enroll in, the school can take anywhere from 5 to 7 years. During this time, the students will be following a combination of theoretical and practical training. Some architects also subscribe each year to be a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).  

In addition, architects can offer you full services. Including the detailed construction drawings and specifications. As well as, the construction phase with particular skills in administrating construction contracts.  

Architectural technologists – 

What does the title architectural technologist mean? 

The architectural technologist provides technical building design services. Technologists also have a professional title which is, Charted Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). CIAT has a similar code of conduct for its members as the ARB. Most technologists have studied a three-year degree approved by CIAT.  

Becoming architectural technologist –  

A technologist is trained less intensively compared to an architect. They will most likely have a degree at best. However, this doesn’t mean that the technologist can’t design buildings.

What do the technologists do?  

The architectural technologists do the following:  

  • Firstly, create drawings and models  
  • Make sure the designs meet building regulations 
  • Prepare contracts and documents 
  • Also prepare cost estimates and instructions for builders 
  • They also work in a similar role to civil engineers.  

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Advice Center

An informative step-by-step guide to installing a roof

4th February 20220

This step-by-step guide will show you how to install a roof. It will also list tools and items that you would need during this project.  

List of tools required –  

  • Caulk gun 
  • Air compressor 
  • Circular saw 
  • Roof harness  
  • Roofing Nailer 
  • Scaffolding  
  • Stapler  
  • Utility knife  
  • Cordless drill 
  • Tape measure  
  • Chalk line 

List of materials required –  

  • Felt underlay  
  • Asphalt shingles  
  • Roofing nails  
  • Drip edge  
  • Hook blades  
  • Sealant 
  • Waterproof underlay  
  • Staples  
  • Step and dormer flashing  
  • Valley flashing  
  • Vent flashing  

Step 1: installing the ventilation system  

A rafter roll is usually laid across the eaves and is designed to guide fresh air into the roof. It also allows air to circulate around the space to prevent dampness.   

What is a rafter roll? 

A rafter roll is a glass mineral wool roll. Designed for use in warm roofs where the roof is insulated at rafter level. It offers excellent thermal performance.  

Make sure the rafter roll comes out above any pre-installed insulation. If you don’t the insulation will block the airflow.  

Step 2: installing underlay  

To protect the roof against ice, wind, and rain you should install a good underlay. You need to make sure the underlay you have chosen meets the building regulation requirements for your project. So, to install the underlay you should start on the right side of the roof and tack it into place. Depending on your ventilation system, you may need to leave a gap at the ridge of the roof to allow air to circulate effectively.  

Step 3: putting in the battens and tiles  

You will need to determine the first fix point on the roof for your tiles, and that’s where the top of your first batten will sit. In addition, make sure you use the right size timber batten for your roof tiles. Line up the top of the batten with the chalk line and fix with a nail to every rafter. After that, to keep the ridge batten secure you must use batten straps to keep it in place.  

What is a batten?  

A Batten is a small section of timber or steel that provides a means of supporting, positioning, or fixing roof cladding and ceiling sheets. A Tile batten is parallel to the eaves line and at right angles to the rafters to which tiles are fixed

Next, you should lay your first line of tiles across the roof. Then, make sure that you have a minimum of one nail per tile and two nails per tile around the perimeters. You should time from right to left, depending on the interlock of the tile.  

Finally step 4: adding the roof ridge 

You should place your ridge membrane in a straight line across the ridge batten. Once it’s secured all along the ridge, it’s time to screw the ridge tiles to the ridge batten. Finally, when that is completed, you can install a ridge-to-ridge seal to offer extra strength to the ridge.  

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