If you are considering carrying out works to your property, it is important to consider what permissions/approvals are needed and to obtain such prior to commencing works. After all, local authorities do have the power to provide enforcement for works carried out without the required permissions which is not a situation many homeowners wish to find themselves in. It is also worth bearing in mind that if a homeowner sells their modified property, the buyer and/or their solicitor/surveyor may flag up the works carried out and request evidence of the relevant permissions/approvals having been sought.
Depending on the nature of the works proposed to be carried out, this may require certain consents/approvals to be in place prior to commencing works. Again, this may vary depending on the scope and nature of the proposals, but this could include Planning Permission, Listed Building Consent and Building Regulations approval. As part of these applications, different levels/types of information may need to be provided such as:
· Drawings relating to the existing layout etc. for the property as well as site/block plans
· Design and access statement
· Drawings relating to the proposed work (which will have different levels of details and requirements for the drawings depending on what type of application is being applied for)
· Structural designs and drawings if the property is structurally being altered
· Various other supporting reports and information, this could include but is not limited to:
o SAP calculations
o Flood risk assessment
o Bat surveys and ecological surveys
o Other technical studies/assessments
o Contaminated land surveys/reports
o Mining reports
Cockrams Surveyors can assist with advising and establishing what type of consents are required for your proposed works, producing existing drawings and proposed designs and submitting applications on your behalf (although it should be accepted that using professionals to submit your applications etc. does not guarantee you will receive the required consents which can only be approved by the relevant authorities/bodies in line with relevant policies and other considerations).
It is also important to remember that the input of other professionals is also commonly required for certain applications/types of work such as Structural Engineers etc. and we can liaise with all required professionals on your behalf to obtain any additional information required to support your applications.
We may also be able assist with the further services following receipt of any approvals obtained such as, specifications and tender documents for contractors, tendering the works to local contractors and contract administration of the works on site.
If you’re planning an extension, building a new property or have other proposed works you may require assistance with, call our friendly office team on 01872 277230 or email info@cockrams-surveyors.co.uk
