Advice

The nature and scope of an Architectural Technologist’s design services are matters for agreement between you and your Architectural Technologist. However, design services for construction works to a domestic property, for example, usually include the preparation of plans and drawings for the proposed works and preparation of the specification. The specification normally sets out how the works should be constructed, the nature of the materials to be used and the standards required of the builder. Your Architectural Technologist will discuss your design requirements with you and can advise upon the type and quality of materials for use in the proposed work.

Architectural Technologists provide architectural designs services and solutions. They specialise in the science of architecture, building design and construction, and form the link between your requirements and the delivery of building work. They can negotiate the construction project and manage the process from inception through to completion.

Planning permission is usually required for most developments, however, smaller extensions and certain loft conversions may be allowed under your permitted development right. You should be advised of the appropriate Planning process to meet the requirements of your project during the initial consultation.

There are also other permissions that are required, the common being for Listed Building Consent, Conservation Area Approval, Tree Preservation Orders. Once Approved you have three years to start the building work.

The Building Regulations apply to building work in England & Wales and set standards for the design and construction of buildings to ensure the safety and health for people in or about those buildings. They also include requirements to ensure that fuel and power is conserved and facilities are provided for people, including those with disabilities, to access and move around inside buildings.

Building Regulations approval is a separate matter from obtaining Planning Permission for your work. Similarly, receiving any Planning Permission which your work may require is not the same as taking action to ensure that it complies with the Building Regulations.

You may already know which builder you wish to employ, but if you do not already have one in mind, you can seek assistance from your Architectural Technologist in the selection and employment of a builder. Factors which often influence the selection of suitable builders include their skills and experience, track record, solvency, whether they have appropriate insurances in place and their availability. It is advisable to obtain more than one quotation. Any conflicts of interest with any professional who is acting for you should be declared in writing and understood.

We have reputable builders who we work with very closely that we are always happen to recommend and gather quotes from on your behalf. It is fundamentally important to realise that you will be employing the builder and you will be responsible for paying the builder to carry out and complete the building work. In turn, the builder is responsible for carrying out the work in accordance with the Architectural Technologist’s design, in accordance with good building practice, and within the timescales that you agree. For the purposes of certainty and to avoid disputes later on, the agreement between you and your builder should be set out in a formal written document, usually called a “Building Contract”. Your Architectural Technologist will be able to advise you upon the appropriate form of contract to use.

www.labc.co.uk – LABC has information on Local Authority Control Departments. There are explanations of what the Building Regulations are and what their purpose is. The website also provides a searchable database for the Department in your local area where you will be able to find the relevant contact details, costs and often a facility for the downloading of the forms you will require for your application.

www.planningportal.gov.uk – Planning Portal has access to all National and Local government resources. There are searchable database of all Local Authority planning departments with their contact details, many offer the facility to download the forms you require for your application.

www.communities.gov.uk – Communities and Local Government is responsible for national policy on building regulations, which exist principally to ensure the health, safety, welfare and convenience of people in and around buildings, and the water and energy efficiency of buildings. The regulations apply to most new buildings and many alterations of existing buildings in England and Wales, whether domestic, commercial or industrial.

www.newforestnpa.gov.uk – This website contains information about visiting, living in, looking after, learning about, news and planning in the New Forest National Park. Enjoy.