PLANNING PERMISSION
Do I need planning permission?
This depends on the size, location and type of extension. For further information refer to our Need Planning page under Questions & Answers.
How long does it take to obtain planning permission?
The council should decide your application within 8 weeks. Large or complex applications may take longer. (See planning process).
Once I receive planning permission when do I have to start the work?
Generally, unless the permission states otherwise, you have three years to start the work. After this, you will probably need to reapply.
Will Plans Made Easy submit my planning application?
Yes, you will have the option to pay to have your planning application submitted. Plans Made Easy will register as your planning agent and complete all documentation and file your application electronically. All communication from the Local Authority regarding your planning application will be dealt directly by Plans Made Easy.
BUILDING REGULATIONS
What are Building Regulations?
The Building Regulations is a statutory instrument enforceable by law which lays down minimum standards of construction for all types of buildings.
Do I require Building Regulations?
Generally, Building Regulations are required for all new buildings and alterations to existing buildings whether domestic, commercial or industrial.
Are structural calculations included in your Building Regulations ?
Yes. All structural calculations are provided and carried out by our in-house engineers. Be aware of practices offering building regulations that do not include structural calculations as this can cost up to £1000 from an independent engineer.
I already have planning permission but require Building Regulations. Can you still provide them ?
Yes, just email us your planning reference, address and contact details and we will provide you with a quoation for Building Regulations.
MEASURING
Do I need to take the measurements of my house myself?
An interactive measurement plan is prepared to simplify the process of measuring your house. However, you do have the option to book a Plans Made Easy agent to carry out the measurements.
How does the interactive measurement plan work?
We will prepare a plan showing all the dimensions required which is then uploaded to your secure account. You can then open the plan and key in your measurements. You can save your progress and return at any time until all the dimensions have been completed.
SKETCHES
I do not have a scanner, so how do I upload my sketches to my account?
That’s not a problem. You can fax or post them to us and we will upload them to your account.
GENERAL
Why are your prices so much lower than your competitors ?
By using the latest 3D modelling, CAD and structural design software, it enables us to efficiently produce very high quality planning and building regulation drawings. We can therefore pass these savings on to our customers.
Are you insured for the work you produce ?
Yes, we are fully insured. Our professional indeminity insurance provides cover to £1 million for each individual project.
Do Plans Made Easy carry out all the planning drawings and Building Regulations or is it sub contracted to 3rd parties ?
All planning drawings and building regulations are produced at our head office in Hungerford, Berkshire. Our in-house structural engineers enables us to structurally appraise your designs at an early stage to ensure they are practical and feasible. This can avoid unecessarily high build costs. This service may not be available by our competitors who engage third party strucutural engineers after planning has been approved.
What areas of the country do you cover ?
We provide a Nationwide service.
How long will it take to receive my drawings?
Each stage will take approximately 1 week once you have returned the required information.
How do I receive my drawings?
All drawings are uploaded to your account for you to download and print off. We will send you an A1 copy of the planning drawings and site location plan for your records in the post. Additional prints can be ordered if required - see below.
What size are the drawings?
The initial and interactive drawings are A4, preliminary and final drawings are A1.
Do Plans Made Easy provide a printing service?
Yes, we can print off any drawings you require and sent by first class post. Our charges are below:
A1 Prints
Cost of each print: £2.25
Postage and Packaging: £2.50
All prices are inclusive of VAT
Planning permission guidelines Building regulations Planning drawings The planning process
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