- Why should I choose House of Blake?
Operating in NW London, House of Blake has achieved steady growth by completing projects on time and budget and competing at every level. With our experienced quantity surveyors and engineers, we can offer 100% accuracy rates on our estimating, saving you time and money. We analyse your requirements and pin point where to save money.
We also have the following accredited contractors:
Electrics: NIC/EIC
Plumbing and Heating: GAS SAFE/ CORGI UPVC
Windows and Doors: FENSA
- Can you design my extension?
House of Blake offers a full design and architectural service ready for submission to local planning and building control.
- Will I need my own Engineer or Architect?
No, here at House of Blake we have both as part of our team. However if you do have these in place already that’s absolutely fine as we can work with them .
- How long will it take to get planning permission?
A typical planning application for an extension or a loft conversion should take 8 weeks. This is the time limit set out by central government that local authorities have to stick to, although this rises to 13 weeks for complex applications. It is important to consider the time you will need to assemble your planning application.
- What is Permitted Development?
Certain minor changes to your property may be covered by Permitted Development. If the work you plan to carry out falls within certain guidelines then you do not require planning permission.
The criteria for work carried out under PD is strict, so it is advisable to check with your local authority planning office or have a qualified surveyor confirm that planning permission is not required.
Permitted Development rights only apply to private houses. Flats are excluded, as are listed buildings. Properties in specially designated areas such as Conservation Areas or green belt are also subject to further restrictions.
You can use PD rights as often as you like but your allowances for extension work can be used only once. If you are buying a property, it is your responsibility to find out what PD rights have been used, modified or withdrawn.
- What are the Building Regulations and Building Control?
The Building Regulations are extensive and approval is required for most building work in the UK. The Building Regulations are grouped in to categories A (structure) to P (electrical) and exist to ensure the health, safety, welfare and convenience of people in and around buildings, as well as the water and energy efficiency of buildings. The main function of Building Control is to ensure compliance with Building Regulations.
- What is the Party Wall Act 1996?
The Party Wall Act 1996 is legislation controlling building work that affects a wall, fence or any part of your neighbour’s structure.
You’re not required to consult with neighbours under building regulations, but you may be required to issue a Party Wall Notice. It is advisable to consult with a Party Wall Surveyor before starting any building work.