Tag: planning

Advice Center

Information on what Article 4 direction is, & when its required.  

19th August 20220

What is an article 4 direction?  

Firstly, an article 4 direction is part of planning legislation that allows the council to remove permitted development rights. For example, householders can normally make minor alterations to their houses without requiring planning permission.  However, in some areas, the council has removed these “permitted development” rights by making an article 4 Direction. 

Restrictions in the directions –  

The effect of an article 4 Direction is that planning permission from the council is required for the types of building works. 

The restrictions on directions are:  

  • Extensions  
  • Alterations such as new windows  
  • Alterations to the roof  
  • Porches  
  • Putting us gates, fences or walls  
  • Placing caravans on land  
  • Putting up agricultural buildings on small plots  
  • Changes of use to houses in multiple occupation 

Types of article 4 direction –  

Since 1995 there have been three types of direction:  

  • Directions under article 4 (2) affecting conservation areas. The aim of this direction is to encourage the retention of high-quality architectural features. As well as, to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the built heritage.  
  • The directions under article 4 (1) affecting only listed buildings 
  • Directions under article 4 (1) affecting other land  

Do article 4 directions expire?  

No, article 4 direction do not expire by themselves. Only the local authority has the right to change or cancel these restrictions. In addition, they can also replace it with a new direction.  

History of article 4 –  

Furthermore, the 1995 town and country planning (general permitted development) order improved the article 4 process and promised to follow it. So, the government introduced it to control the amount of housing in urban areas and maintain quality.  

How to find an article 4 area?  

Finally, the easiest way to find an article 4 area is to look at the local authority’s website. Almost all councils include an article 4 map, where you can see which streets and boroughs are within the restrictions.  

Architecture & Building

Learn all about the cost of building 2022 

15th August 20220

The build cost inflation has been increasing at a rapid rate. The factors of Brexit and covid 19 have made the costs of both materials and labour increase massively. They have contributed to supply issues and the volumes of delays to imported goods have had an impact on construction costs.  

How much does it cost to build a house?  

The cost to build a new house in the UK will depend on a number of factors. Some of the big ones include the size of your property, the materials you use, and the number of trades people you decide to hire.  

So, because every project is different and each client has different wants and needs it is almost impossible to get a standard quote for a build project. However, averagely to build a house in the UK in 2022, you can expect to pay anything from £1,500 – £3,000 per m2.  

How much has building work prices gone up? 

Prices have increased over the past 2 years for several materials, due to lead times and growing demand. Year on year prices for all building work rose by 27.2% from May 2021 to May 2022. 

Some materials which continue to be affected –  

  • Timber – timber was up 30% in April 2022. 
  • Roof tiles – prices of roof tiles have risen 24% in a year.  
  • Steel – fabricated steel rose by 52.7%.  
  • Bricks – brick prices increased by 12%.  
  • Concrete – concrete bars are 64% more expensive than a year ago.  

Will the building cost go down in 2022?  

Furthermore, these higher material costs have led to rising inflation costs. Meaning it is unlikely for construction costs to go down in 2022.  

Is it a good time to build?  

Although, the costs and interest rates are rising it would be better to build your dream home sooner rather than later. It is likely that the cost will keep on increasing. So, it is an investment to start your build project now.  

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Planning Permission

What you need to know about Retrospective planning  

29th July 20220

What is retrospective panning permission? 

Firstly, retrospective planning permission is the granting of approval after construction or changes of us have been undertaken. Just because you have made changes to your property doesn’t mean planning permission will automatically be granted. The application will be treated the same as any other application.  

Why some people might not apply for planning –  

  • Planning takes too long –  

 Usually when people are ready to make changes to their home, they already have costs from contractors and are financially ready. An application can take between 8-10 weeks to get validated. And if your council are experiencing delays, you could be waiting even longer.  

So, with prices of materials and labour increasing all the time, people want to get the work done while it is still in their price range.  

  • Are un aware of the rules  

To someone who has completely no idea how the construction world works it could be an easy mistake to make.     

  • Thought no one would notice 

People are willing to build on to their property without planning permission because they think they would get away with it. But if the council find out they would need to apply for retrospective planning.  

The commonest reason property owners apply for planning permission after the work is completed is because they have been approached by the local authority. They will then be asked to disclose the work done on their house. The authority’s may have noticed the changes themselves, or someone may have told them.  

What if retrospective planning is refused?  

If the application is refused you have the opportunity to try and appeal. However, if the appeal gets rejected, the local authority can issue an enforcement notice. This means you have to put everything back to how it was before it was extended.  

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Architecture & Building

What are MEP plans? And why you might need them  

13th July 20220

What is am MEP in construction?  

MEP stands for mechanical, electrical and plumbing. MEP engineering is the science and are of planning, designing and managing the MEP systems of a building.  

  • M – the mechanical design elements of a property, such as the heating and cooling system are important because they make the inside comfortable. This makes it so you can live in buildings in all weather conditions, hot and cold.  
  • E – the electrical system keeps all the lights and power going, it also powers the other systems. Architectural lighting plans are key component of the electrical engineering process.  
  • P – finally, the plumbing system provides fresh water for cleaning, drinking etc. They also take storm and wastewater safely away.  

What’s in MEP drawings?  

These types of drawings are created by combining architectural, structural, and civil shop drawing for a project. These types of drawings smooth out the manufacturing, installation, assembly and maintenance of the MEP in a building. Contractors use these drawings to get precise specifications and identify faults before construction starts.  

The drawings provide construction cost saving approximately 30%, along with the improvement in the building delivery schedules to over 40%.  

Benefits of using a MEP engineering company –  

Working with an experienced MEP engineering company has several benefits:  

  • It can optimize material needs to lower installation costs while maintaining excellent performance and code compliance.  
  • Because of the high level of interaction between MEP systems, they are usually built jointly. This unified approach eliminates equipment collisions, prevalent during the separate building of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems separately. 
  • Joint designs enable the effective utilization of space. 

What is the importance of the drawings?  

Furthermore, they provide important systems of checks and balances during the construction phase of a project. The purpose is to ensure the end result keeps to the design shown in the construction documents, and meets the expectations of the owner.  

Extensions

All there is to know about Glass box extensions  

12th July 20220

Glass box extensions have become very popular and they make a beautiful addition to a home. They come in many shapes and sizes but overall they add a ton of natural light and add a modern spark to an older home.  

What is a glass box extension?  

Glass box extensions, also known as frameless extensions are made from structural glass units and supported with glass beams and fins.  

Can you enjoy the extension all year round?  

Adding an extension to your property can be a big commitment and many people want to know the room will be used throughout all of the seasons. You cannot design this type of extension using cheap glass. So, modern glass box extensions use strong structural glass with built in temperature control. With this feature you can comfortably enjoy the natural light in the summer months and also keep it warm and welcoming in the winter months.  

Will a glass box extension add value to the property?  

Aa lot of clients like the idea of a glass extension because they know that it will add value to their property. As Schlüsseldienst Berlin Lichtenberg states from his own experience if the project is done right it can add up to 7% to the value of your home.  

How much will it cost?  

A standard glass extension can cost between £1,350 – £1,950 per square metre. Whereas a standard glass extension in London and the south east can cost between £1,800 – £2,300 per square metre. A full glass extension can cost up to £3,000 per square metre. Although this is the average price of per square metre, there are also other things that can affect the price such as:  

  • Size 
  • Choice of doors  
  • Glazing  
  • Choice of roof  
  • Location  
  • Ease of access 
  • Architect/ structural engineering fees  
  • Planning permission and building regulations approval  
Image: https://glasspace.com

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Conversions

A list of Design ideas for a bungalow conversion

7th July 20220

The bungalows are no longer reserve for the homeowners. There is a huge potential to transform them into something exciting. There is not just the potential for renovation but also great design opportunities. 

 Here is a list of design ideas to modernise your bungalow –  

Renovate the exterior of the bungalow 

When it comes to any property first impressions mean a lot, so don’t forget about the exterior. You can achieve a more modern look by simply adding a fresh coat of paint to the bungalow. Another way of making the exterior of your property stand out is by having a nice garden. Landscaping and adding garden furniture can make the home feel welcoming and create a good environment to be around.  

Adding a loft conversion  

You can also consider the loft conversion for your bungalow. However, you need to make sure that the head height is at least 2.3m. Furthermore, you may not need planning permission application as it comes under permitted development rights. A loft conversion is a great way to create some useable space. One of our favourite types is a dormer which is the cheapest and easy option. 

Adding an extension  

You can also consider adding a bungalow extension. However, the process is trickier to achieve from design and structure point of view. Although, bi-fold doors are the perfect way to create that indoor/ outdoor living and bring extra light in to your home. Also, if you like the modern style they add an amazing aesthetic to the house.

Focus on the social areas of the house  

As Schlüsseldienst Bremen states from its own experience the kitchen is worth investing in because it is one of the most important rooms in a home. You should keep it open and bright making sure all the natural light comes floods in. It is also important to pick a style of kitchen and work with that so everything matches.  

Image: https://www.houzz.co.uk/photos/bungalow-remodel-and-extension-wilmslow-contemporary-entrance-cheshire-phvw-vp~129151669
House Extension

Why an orangery is the perfect addition to your home

29th June 20220

Firstly, what is an orangery?  

An orangery is a home extension with a glass roof typically covering less than 75% of the overall roof area. As well as, glass walls covering less than 50% of the total wall area.  

Will you need planning permission?  

For planning permission purposes, an orangery is considered as a singles storey extension and are subject to the same regulations. You won’t need planning permission for an orangery if you build within permitted development rights.  

  • It must be under 4m in height and the eaves should be less than 3m high if they are within 2m of a structure boundary 
  • It should not include any balconies, decks or verandas 

How much does it to build an orangery? 

Building an orangery is usually a lot cheaper than building a single storey extension. They are a popular option for people who prefer modern open plan living. They are one of the most affordable ways to create a multi-functional space. The average cost of an orangery costs upwards of £18,000. However, they can be cheaper depending on the size, style, and features you want.  

Are they cold in the winter?  

As Schlüsseldienst Berlin Friedrichshain states from his own experience as the structure is mainly made up of glass, they tend to be cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer. If you are debating between a conservatory or an orangery it is good to know, orangeries have more solid wall and roofing compared to a conservatory. They do retain more heat than a conservatory.  

Why they are a great addition –  

Orangeries add amazing depth to your living space, and they can be extremely versatile. They fill the space with light and have great views of the outside. The open space makes it a perfect area for a dining room or living room to entertain friends and family.  

(Image credit: Westbury Garden Rooms/Darren Chung)
Loft Conversion

What beginners need to know about Velux loft conversions

28th June 20220

Velux Loft Conversion 

The name Velux is after a famous brand of loft windows. It also implies that this loft conversion done by installing Velux windows. 

For converting a loft, the head height of the loft must be sufficient enough. So, a person can stand under the roof without banging its head. Furthermore, if your loft has a hipped roof, then a hip-to-gable loft conversion is the best choice. The reason is that this conversion helps in increasing the space in the loft. 

If Velux loft conversion is what you are looking for, then you should call our team of structural engineers to arrange a site visit. Our qualified engineers will assess the space in the lift and other things to provide you with an accurate quote for the work required. 

Planning Permission 

In most of the cases, you do not need to apply for planning permission. Other loft conversions required significant changes to the roof but, Velux loft conversion does not need these alterations. You can do the construction under permitted development unless your house is in a heritage or conservation site. 

Cost of a Velux loft conversion –   

The average cost for a Velux loft conversion is around £27,500. However, there are various things that will affect the cost such as: 

  • Size of windows  
  • Number of windows required  
  • Type of windows  
  • Head height and space of your loft  
  • Where you live  
  • Style and quality of finishings   

When we compare this conversion with other loft conversions such as mansard loft conversion; It is the most cost-effective. You also need to keep in mind that you are not wasting your money. Instead, it is an investment in the property. Just like any other extension or conversion, it adds value to your property. If you have plans to sell the property in the future, you will get higher offers thanks to the extra space you have in the house. 

How much value does a Velux loft conversion add? 

As a guide a well built and perfectly appointed loft conversion can add between 10–20% to the value of your home, according to Ideal Home. But where do you start? As Schlüsseldienst Berlin states from its own experience it can be an overwhelming process, especially for those of us who’ve not been through major building works previously.  

Photo: VELUX
Conversions

All there is to know about class Q barn conversions

15th June 20220

What is a barn conversion?  

A barn conversion is the adaptation of a farm barn into serving a different use, such as a house or commercial premises.  

What is a class Q conversion?  

Class Q allows the conversion of agricultural buildings to houses subject to certain conditions and limitations. It was first introduced in 2014, as a form of permitted development designed to ease the pressure on housing in rural areas.  

What you’re allowed to do with class Q permitted development rights –  

Class q regulations can be applied to buildings which have been used for agriculture. It doesn’t apply to buildings in AONB, conservation areas or listed buildings.  

The regulations show:  

  • You cannot extend the building beyond its existing dimensions.  
  • The garden area cannot be bigger than the footprint of the building.  
  •   You can create up to three dwellings when converting existing buildings.  
  • As long as it is necessary you can undertake partial demolition.  
  • You can install or replace almost everything if it is necessary for the building to become a home. For example: windows, doors, roof, exterior walls, gas, electric, drainage etc.  

Development is not permitted by class Q if – 

  • The floor space of the building changing use within an agricultural unit exceeds 450 square metres.  
  •  The site is occupied under an agricultural tenancy, unless the consent of both landlords and the tenant has been obtained.  
  • The number of separate dwellings exceeds 3.  
  • If the site is, or part of a safety hazard area, a site of special scientific interest, or a military explosives storage area.  

The new dwellings can be created from one or more agricultural buildings on the plot, so long as the total footprint isn’t exceeded. The new houses can be divided as follows: 

  • Smaller dwelling houses – 5 units; no more than 100m2 each. 
  • Larger dwelling houses – 3 units; no more than 465m2 each. 
  • Up to 5 homes comprising of a mix of larger and smaller homes, with neither exceeding the maximum floorspace for each type. 

How long does class Q planning last?  

Planning permission for development under class Q must be completed within a 3-year period starting with the approval date.  

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Extensions

Learn All About House extension costs in London

14th June 20220

When it comes to building a house extension it is often much cheaper than completely moving house. However, London extensions have a premium cost compared to the rest of the UK. One of the main questions asked when planning to do an extension is “how much will it cost?”. So, in this blog, we will help you gain an understanding of the average cost of an extension in London.  

Every extension is different –  

When it comes to extensions many people think that you just build onto the back of your property. But in reality, there are many different types and sizes of extensions and each of them have a different cost. There are many different types of extensions for example:  

  • Front  
  • Rear  
  • Side 
  • Wrap around  
  • Double storey   
  • Or a combination of all of them  

How much does an extension cost in London?   

For a single storey extension in London, you will averagely be looking to pay between £2000 – £3000 per square meter. Whereas, in other places of the UK averagely pay £1300 – £1600 per square meter. So, a 20 sqm single storey extension can start anywhere from £40,000.  If you decide to go for a double storey extension you are looking at paying 50 – 60% more than a single storey extension. Although, it is harder to get planning permission on a double storey compared to a single storey extension.  

You may also need to take into consideration for extra fees such as an architect, planning permission and finishes on the project. All of these factors can increase the price.  

What are extensions in London commonly used for?  

Typically, the houses in London are quite narrow so one of the more common extensions people go for is a rear extension. Depending on the layout of the house this can extend either the kitchen or the living room to create a more open space.  

Why is it so expensive to build in London?  

  • London has more tunnels, including sewers, the tube and, mail rail compared to other cities.  
  • The narrow streets make it difficult to access building sites.  
  • To preserve London’s historical character there are many different levels of the planning rules.  
  • There is a worryingly large amount of unexploded World War 2 bombs scattered all over London.  
  • London also has a higher labour and material costs.  
  • The archaeology of roman ruins in the city also makes it hard for construction to take place.   
House Extensions London | SDA Build London

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