PINK LINES

HOW MUCH DO WE CHARGE FOR PLANS? Not enough is the short answer. What I can tell you is that no two projects are ever the same and the best way to get an accurate cost for any type of architectural service is to Post an Enquiry

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HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET PLANS? From an initial inquiry we can usually do a site consultation and survey within 7/10 working days. Once we have all the information we require it will take another 7/10 working days to create the initial set of design plans.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET PLANNING PERMISSION? During 2021 we experienced serious delays with regard to the planning application process. Under normal circumstance it takes 1/2 weeks to submit an application and have it validated. Once validated, it usually takes about 8 / 10 weeks to reach a conclusion.

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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ARB OR RIBA ARCHITECT AND A TECHNICIAN? Architectural Technicians and Technologists do much the same work as ARB or RIBA architects but have different career paths. ARB & RIBA Architects tend to focus on the design aspects whereas the Technician and Technologists tend to focus more on the actual build environment.

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DO I NEED DESIGN PLANS FOR A PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT EXTENSION? The short answer is Yes and No. Many homeowners seem to think that because their proposed extension falls within permitted development that they should forgo the cost of design plans. This is usually a big mistake as they won't have the experience to get the best design and layout for their property or know how to add the most value or kerb appeal. At PINK LINES we always recommend that you have an experienced and creative designer create your design plans for any kind of large improvement or extension project even though you may not require a planning application.

 

WHAT ARE BUILDING REGULATIONS PLANS? When it comes to large home improvement projects or extensions you will always need building regulations drawings to communicate the build to building control and your builder. In a nutshell, you can't build without building plans.

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DO I NEED A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER FOR MY EXTENSION? It is not necessary to get a structural engineer for your extension. It is however necessary to get a structural design and calculations for any type of structural alterations such as making openings to load bearing walls, removing supporting walls or chimneybreast removal. Just ask your designer to sort out quotes from the structural engineers.

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DO I REALLY NEED A PARTY WALL AGREEMENT? Short Answer is YES. Any build project where you interfere with the party walls or excavate within 3 metres of another property will usually necessitate a party wall agreement.

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WHAT IS A PROJECT SCHEDULE & SPECIFICATION OF WORKS? A really useful document I would say. The schedule is usually drawn up by your designer for larger refurbishment or build projects and list all the works to be carried out. The schedule will specify the materials and the exact requirements so that you can create a budget for the project. The schedule is also used to get quotes from the builders.

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CAN I TAKE OUT A WALL OR ADD AN EXTENSION TO MY LEASEHOLD FLAT? The short answer is YES. However, before you get the big hammer out you have to get a License to Alter from the freeholder so you will need to have plans and drawings for your project. 

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