Knowing what to expect
Every project differs, but most follow the same rhythm: three phases and nine clear stages. Here is the typical timeline, how fees work, and the common pitfalls we help you avoid.
Three phases, nine stages
Core stages happen on almost every project; optional stages are added only when you are ready. You are never committed beyond the next step.
Concept & Planning
Accurate information first, your ideas turned into a design, and any planning permission secured.
- Site Visit & Measured Survey
- Existing & Proposed Drawings
- Planning Application If required
Technical Design
The technical drawings, structural design and Building Control application that make the design buildable.
- Building Control Drawings
- Structural Design
- Building Control Application Optional
Build & Completion
Appointing a builder, keeping professional eyes on site, and seeing the project through to your finished home.
- Tendering & Contract Administration Optional
- Project Management & Site Support Optional
- Completed Project
See what each stage includes →See the projects we work on →See example project packs →
The usual rhythm of a project
We confirm a tailored programme with your fee proposal, so you always know roughly where you are.
Survey, drawings & proposed design
~1–3 weeksPhase 1. Depending on revisions and how quickly the design is agreed.
Planning application (if required)
~8–10 weeksPhase 1. Drawings in 2–3 weeks; councils then typically take around 8 weeks to determine.
Building control drawings & structural design
~2–3 weeksPhase 2. Often produced in parallel, or instead of planning where none is needed.
Tendering & appointing a builder (optional)
~2–4 weeksPhase 3.
Construction & completion
Project-specificPhase 3.
No surprises on fees
Fees are agreed and fixed in writing for each stage before any work begins, so you stay in control throughout.
- Fees are agreed and fixed in writing for each stage before work begins.
- A deposit confirms your booking; stage fees are paid at the start of each stage.
- Project management is paid in weekly instalments once a contractor is appointed.
- Optional services are quoted separately, only if and when you proceed.
- Any change of scope is discussed and agreed first, never afterwards.
- You are never committed beyond the next step.
Common mistakes, and how we help you avoid them
Starting on site without full building-regs drawings
The fix: A complete technical package before work begins gives builders a firm basis to price and build from.
Choosing a builder on price alone
The fix: Tender to a shortlist on identical information and use a written contract. The cheapest quote is rarely the cheapest project.
Guessing whether you need planning permission
The fix: Confirm the route early. A Lawful Development Certificate is sometimes all that is needed.
Forgetting the Party Wall Act
The fix: Where work affects a shared wall or boundary, serve the right notices in good time, skipping this can stop a project dead.
Treating structural design as an afterthought
The fix: Coordinate structure with the architecture from the start to avoid late redesign, delay and expense.
Skipping the completion certificate
The fix: See the Building Control process through to the completion certificate the council or approved inspector issues at the end, or selling and remortgaging can become difficult later.
Let’s design your next chapter
When you are ready, a short, no-obligation conversation is all it takes. We will talk through your ideas and recommend the right first step.