Frequently Asked Questions

Most single storey rear extensions fall under Permitted Development rights and do not require full planning permission. However, we always submit a Lawful Development Certificate application for peace of mind. Double storey extensions and properties in conservation areas may require full planning.

A typical single storey rear extension takes 8 to 12 weeks from start on site to completion. Larger or double storey extensions may take 12 to 16 weeks. We provide a detailed programme at contract stage and commit to a fixed completion date.

In London, good quality rear extensions typically work out at around £2,000 per m² for straightforward builds, rising with steelwork, drainage changes, rooflights, and higher specification finishes. Our fixed price quotes include everything from foundations to final decoration.

Most clients remain in their property during a rear extension build. We maintain a safe working area and keep dust disruption to a minimum. For larger projects or full renovations, temporary accommodation may be more comfortable.

A side return extension fills in the narrow alleyway (typically 1 to 1.5m wide) that runs alongside Victorian and Edwardian houses. This "side return" was originally left to provide light to downstairs rooms. Filling it in creates valuable extra space for kitchens, dining areas, or utility rooms.

If your extension touches or affects the party wall (the shared wall between properties), you will need to serve a Party Wall Notice. We handle this process for you, including appointing surveyors if your neighbour dissents.

Yes, and this is very common. A combined side return and rear extension creates a large L shaped kitchen diner, one of the most sought after layouts in London. The combined project often costs less per m² than doing them separately.

Most side returns have existing drainage runs that need to be diverted. We include all necessary drainage alterations in our quotes and coordinate with Thames Water or the relevant authority for build-over agreements.

In London, wraparound extensions typically start from £55,000 for a modest specification and more compact footprint. Larger family-sized projects often land between £70,000 and £110,000 depending on glazing, steelwork, drainage, and finish level.

Many wraparound extensions exceed Permitted Development limits, particularly if the side extension is more than half the width of the original house. We always check and submit full planning applications where needed.

Most wraparound extensions take 12 to 16 weeks from start on site. Larger or more complex projects may take up to 20 weeks. We provide a detailed programme and commit to a fixed completion date in the contract.

Yes. In London, a well executed wraparound extension can add £100,000-£200,000 to a property's value, often significantly more than the construction cost. The key is creating a functional, well lit open plan space.

The minimum headroom required is 2.2m from the top of the ceiling joist to the underside of the ridge timber. Most Victorian and Edwardian properties meet this requirement. We provide a free survey to confirm suitability.

Velux conversions are the simplest and most affordable, using roof windows without altering the roofline. Dormer conversions project vertically from the roof slope, creating more headroom and floor space. Mansard conversions (common in London) alter the entire roof slope and maximise space but usually require planning permission.

Most loft conversions fall under Permitted Development rights and do not require planning permission. Exceptions include properties in conservation areas, listed buildings, and mansard conversions. We always verify and submit applications where needed.

A straightforward Velux conversion takes 4 to 6 weeks. Dormer conversions typically take 6 to 8 weeks. Larger mansard conversions can take 10 to 12 weeks. We provide a detailed programme before work starts.

The structural extension typically starts from £35,000 depending on size and complexity. The kitchen itself ranges from around £10,000 for a straightforward supply and fit package to £50,000+ for high-end bespoke layouts and appliances. We can manage the whole project or just the structural build.

We work with trusted kitchen suppliers across London and can manage the entire kitchen installation as part of the project. Alternatively, we can build the extension only and coordinate with your chosen kitchen company.

For many homes, a practical kitchen extension starts around 15 to 20 m². Larger open plan kitchen diners are often 20 to 30 m² and priced accordingly. We help you balance layout, budget, and how you actually use the space.

Yes, but it can be challenging. Many clients set up a temporary kitchen in another room. For larger projects, some choose to move out temporarily. We keep disruption to a minimum with careful planning.

Most garage conversions fall under Permitted Development and do not require planning permission. Exceptions include listed buildings, conservation areas, and conversions that create separate self contained accommodation. We always verify before work starts.

Single garage conversions typically cost £18,000 to £28,000 depending on insulation upgrades, windows, heating, and finish level. Double garage conversions and self-contained layouts cost more.

A straightforward single garage conversion takes 2 to 4 weeks. More complex conversions with plumbing for bathrooms or kitchens may take 4 to 6 weeks. We provide a detailed programme before starting.

Yes, if the garage was unused. Converting to a bedroom, office, or annexe typically adds more value than a garage, particularly in London where parking is less critical than space. However, consider whether you'll miss the storage or parking.

In London and the Home Counties, straightforward new builds often average around £2,000 per m² at entry level, rising with complexity, specification, and site constraints. A compact 80 to 90 m² home would typically start from around £165,000 to build, excluding land and abnormal costs.

From planning approval to completion, most new builds take 6 to 12 months. Smaller single dwellings may take 4 to 6 months, while larger homes or multi-unit developments can take 12 to 18 months.

Yes, all new dwellings require full planning permission. You will need to submit planning applications with architectural drawings and design statements. We can coordinate this process on your behalf as an optional service.

All our new builds come with a 15 year structural warranty. This covers structural defects for 15 years and builder defects for the first 5 years. It is required by most mortgage lenders.

Design and build is a project delivery method where one company handles both design and construction under a single contract. It gives you a single point of responsibility and can improve coordination, speed, and cost control compared with a more fragmented route.

Bespoke custom homes in London typically cost more than a straightforward new build because the design, coordination, and finish are more tailored. As a guide, compact bespoke homes often start from around £225,000, with the cost per m² rising as complexity and specification increase.

Yes. We have experience delivering Passivhaus and other high performance sustainable homes. Passivhaus design requires careful attention to insulation, airtightness, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery.

From initial brief to completion, custom homes typically take 12 to 18 months. This includes 3 to 6 months for design and planning, and 9 to 12 months for construction. Complex or larger homes may take longer.

We specialise in small to medium scale residential developments from 2 to 50 units. This includes new build terraces, apartment conversions, mixed use schemes, and large house conversions to flats.

Yes. We provide detailed cost plans, cash flow forecasts, and monitoring reports required by development finance lenders. We have experience working with major development finance providers.

We offer full development project management from site acquisition through to completion and sales. This includes coordinating planners, architects, engineers, and all construction phases.

All our development projects come with 15 year structural warranty required by mortgage lenders. We also provide 5 year workmanship guarantee and handle all completion certificates.

In London, full renovations for a 2 to 3 bed house typically start from around £65,000, depending on specification and how much of the property is being rebuilt internally. Larger homes, extensions, and high-spec finishes increase the budget further.

Most full renovations take 10 to 16 weeks depending on the property size and scope. Larger properties or those requiring structural work may take 16 to 24 weeks. We provide a detailed programme before starting.

For full renovations, yes. The property will be without kitchen, bathroom, and often heating during the works. Most clients arrange temporary accommodation for the duration.

Internal renovations generally don't require planning permission unless the property is listed or in a conservation area. Structural alterations may require Building Regulations approval, which we handle.

Standard bathroom refits cost £8,000-£12,000 including sanitaryware and tiles. Wet rooms and luxury bathrooms range from £15,000-£30,000+. We provide detailed quotes after survey.

Most bathroom renovations take 2 to 3 weeks. Larger bathrooms or complex wet rooms may take 3 to 4 weeks. We provide a detailed programme before starting.

We can source and supply all sanitaryware, tiles, and fittings as part of the project. Alternatively, you can purchase your own and we'll install. We advise on suitability and compatibility.

We use industry-leading tanking systems for wet rooms and shower areas, including Schluter KERDI and Mapei Mapelastic. All waterproofing comes with a guarantee and is inspected before tiling.

Simple kitchen refits cost £15,000-£25,000 including building work and installation. Complete renovations with layout changes and structural work range from £30,000-£60,000+. Kitchen units and appliances are typically extra.

Most kitchen renovations take 3 to 6 weeks depending on the scope. Simple refits may take 2 to 3 weeks, while complete renovations with structural changes can take 6 to 8 weeks.

We work with trusted kitchen suppliers across London and can manage the entire supply and installation. Alternatively, we can work with your chosen kitchen company and handle all building work and coordination.

Yes. We regularly reconfigure kitchen layouts, moving walls, relocating services, and creating open plan spaces. Structural alterations require Building Regulations approval, which we handle.

Yes. We undertake restoration, renovation, extension, and alteration works on listed buildings and period homes, provided the correct approvals are in place. We work closely with your architect, surveyor, and conservation officer requirements.

Most changes that affect the character of a listed building require listed building consent, even when they look minor. We review the approved drawings and consent conditions carefully before construction begins.

We specify materials that are appropriate to the age and condition of the building, including lime-based products, traditional timber details, breathable finishes, and matching masonry where needed.

Yes. The goal is usually to improve comfort, layout, and performance while preserving the details that make the property special. We focus on discreet upgrades and sympathetic construction methods.

Yes. We regularly remove load-bearing walls and install the required steel or structural supports. All work must be designed properly, sequenced safely, and signed off through Building Regulations.

Yes. Structural alterations almost always require Building Regulations approval because they affect the safety and stability of the building. We coordinate that process as part of the job.

Simple wall removals can take a few days, while larger reconfiguration works may take several weeks once propping, steel installation, and making good are included. We provide a programme before starting.

Yes. In fact, they often are. Structural alterations are commonly the backbone of open-plan renovations, kitchen remodels, loft conversions, and extension projects.

Converting an existing cellar typically starts from around £75,000. Excavated basements, major underpinning, and premium fit outs can increase the cost significantly because waterproofing and structural work make basements far more complex than standard above-ground extensions.

Converting an existing cellar usually falls under Permitted Development. However, excavating new basements or adding lightwells often requires planning permission. We always verify and submit applications where needed.

We use Type C (cavity drain membrane) or Type A (tanking) waterproofing systems depending on groundwater conditions. All systems are installed by certified specialists and come with guarantees. We design to BS 8102:2022 standards.

Most basement conversions take 8 to 14 weeks. Complex projects with underpinning or new excavation can take 14 to 20 weeks. We provide a detailed programme before starting.

Cat A is a basic finish including raised floors, suspended ceilings, basic lighting, and HVAC. Cat B is the ready to occupy fit out including partitioning, final lighting, flooring, kitchens, and decoration. We deliver both.

In London, smaller commercial fit outs typically start from around £40,000. On a rate basis, Cat A and Cat B fit outs are commonly priced in the high hundreds to low thousands per m² depending on services, compliance requirements, and finish level. We provide detailed fixed price quotes after survey.

Small offices (100 to 300 m²) typically take 6 to 10 weeks. Larger fit outs can take 12 to 20 weeks. We programme works to minimise disruption to your business and can work out of hours if needed.

Most internal fit outs don't require planning permission unless the use class changes or external alterations are made. Building Regulations approval is required for most commercial fit outs, which we handle.