We prefer to keep it local for several reasons…. Our office is based in Colchester, and we typically travel within a 30-mile radius of that location. Our in-house team, sub-contractors and suppliers are all local too. It’s better for the environment, client meetings are easier to attend, and it means we are more productive by not having to allocate additional travel time into our days! 

 

We cover most aspects of construction as our team have expertise in residential and commercial building projects. Bespoke new builds and home extensions tend to be our main type of contracts. Our team of construction professionals and craftsmen apply the same level of care to any project. Our behind the scenes set up has been tailor made to suit a wide range of projects. 

 

Most definitely. Any additional floor space added to a property increases its value and always give you a return on what you’ve spent building it. Bespoke features in a property such as open plan spaces, large areas of glazing and beautiful kitchens can also entice potential buyers, adding more value! A study carried out by (Living etc, 2020) discovered that adding an extra bedroom or a kitchen extension could increase the property value by 20%. 

 

Building control ensures there are no cowboy builders. Building control surveyors attend site as the works progress to ensure all works are carried out to building regulations standards. They can either be appointed through the local council or an independent building control company. On completion of the project, a completion certificate will be issued. This is an important document when selling or re-mortgaging a home. Speak to your architect or the project nine team to find out more. 

 

There are many factors to consider here…. Under permitted development rights you can make certain changes to your property without needing to apply for planning permission. However, some locations are restricted from permitted development so any potential project needs to be checked with your architect or local planning authority first. Even if the project does fall under permitted development, you will still need plans drawn up, as it’s a legal requirement. For further information please read this handy guide on the Government’s planning portal Extensions - Guide to permitted development (planningportal.co.uk) 

 

As a guideline this usually takes 8-10 weeks to obtain a decision from the local authority. Should your project then require building regulations drawings, this could take another 4-8 weeks. 

 

Building regulations help to ensure that projects are going to be safe and high performing. Detailed drawings are carried out by the architect and cover range of topics which are bespoke to each project. From structural integrity to energy performance, ventilation and drainage. Building regs drawings are then used by the building contractors as a set of standards to adhere to. Find out more here…. Building regulations approval: When you need approval - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) 

 

Most reputable builders are booked up in advance, plus a successful project requires a good amount of time spent on the design & pre-construction phase. So, it’s never too early to start planning! With the lead times mentioned above in terms of planning and building regulations approval, you’ll need a minimum of 6 months prior to builders starting on site. This will allow time to prepare specifications, budgets and contracts for the build. For larger projects we’d recommend spending additional time in the design and pre-construction phase.