Planning permission, if you’ve never taken on a home project before, it’s likely you’ve heard the horror stories. Tales about unruly planning officers, restrictive councils, and multiple refusals. That’s to say nothing of trying to work out how you even apply for it in the first place.
If you’re struggling to understand how planning permission works, you might have stumbled onto articles referencing architects and wondered if these home experts are needed. Have no fear, we’re here to clear things up…
No.
You are neither required by law to have an architect submit your planning application or design your home. In fact, anyone can put together a set of floorplans.
Does this mean you should avoid architects altogether? Again, no. Here’s why…
Finding an architect who will handle the planning process on your behalf is one of the best things you can do for your home, especially if you’re adding either an extension or creating a loft conversion.
Why?
Well firstly, they’ve been there and done that. An experienced architect will have submitted hundreds of planning applications, and will, therefore, have experience in not only making sure the nitty-gritty details are correct but will also likely have a personal relationship with your local authority. As much as it sucks, planning applications have an element of the subjectivity to them. One council can approval what another rejects, that’s why it pays to know those in charge, as it means your architect will anticipate what has a history of rejection.
At Resi, we’ve submitted over 1000 planning applications. This experience means our current approval rate is 93%!
Not all projects require planning permission. In fact, your home could benefit from permitted development rights.
This government scheme allows you to extend your home providing certain conditions are met. These conditions are concerned with…
Learn more about your permitted development rights here.
Because of their technical nature, it can be hard to navigate what does and doesn’t sit within this scheme. That’s why having an architect on board is such a blessing. They’ll be able to assess if your permitted development rights are applicable for your project and ensure you don’t fall foul of the rules.
Though planning permission isn’t required, we would still recommend getting a lawful development certificate if using this alternative planning route. Luckily, this is also something an architect can handle on your behalf.
Still not sure an architect is right for your home? Consider these top five reasons why architects can make your project a dream, instead of a planning nightmare…
Want to learn more about how an architect can benefit your home? Book a free consultation our team. No matter your project, we’re always on hand with expert advice, just a phone call away.
With Resi Ready, you do the designs yourself on our whizz bang tech configurator. It’s the simplest way to get a spiffy new home extension.
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