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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.

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The journey

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.

Phase A

Design & Concept

Accurate information first, then your ideas turned into a design you can see and refine.

  1. Site Visit & Measured Survey
  2. Existing Drawings & Consultation
  3. Proposed Drawings
Phase B

Approvals & Technical

Securing any permissions you need and producing the detail to obtain quotes and build.

  1. Planning Application Optional
  2. Building Regs. & Specification
  3. Structural Design
Phase C

Build & Completion

The build is where budgets slip and disputes arise. These services keep professional eyes on site.

  1. Building Control & Sign-Off Optional
  2. Tendering & Contract Admin Optional
  3. Project Management & Site Support Optional

See what each stage includes →See the projects we work on →

Typical timescales

The usual rhythm of a project

We confirm a tailored programme with your fee proposal, so you always know roughly where you are.

  • Survey, consultation & proposed design

    ~1–3 weeks

    Phase A. Depending on revisions and how quickly the design is agreed.

  • Planning application (if required)

    ~8–10 weeks

    Phase B. Drawings in 2–3 weeks; councils then typically take around 8 weeks to determine.

  • Building regs. & structural design

    ~2–3 weeks

    Phase B. Often produced in parallel, or instead of planning where none is needed.

  • Tendering & appointing a builder (optional)

    ~2–4 weeks

    Phase C.

  • Construction & completion sign-off

    Project-specific

    Phase C.

Cost certainty, by design

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.
Avoiding pitfalls

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 completion sign-off

The fix: See Building Control through to a completion certificate, 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.

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