You don’t need us to tell you that the planning process is confusing.
There’s a lot to think about before you even submit your application. Not to mention all the little unknowns that can either trip you up or make things miles easier.
In this guide we set out to demystify the process for you. We’ll cover where you should start, what costs to expect, how timelines should run, and several considerations that most home-owners aren’t even aware of. We’ve also included a handy downloadable planning checklist.
By arming yourself with this knowledge you can plan ahead, understand what is going on as your project progresses, and avoid unpleasant surprises down the line.
What do I need to think about before starting a planning application?
First things first – what is the main objective of your home improvement project? You are likely to have several, but the most important one may be something like a bigger space for entertaining, an additional bedroom, or adding value to the house.
Once you have identified this, you’ll need to decide in more detail – how much extra space do you need, and what is on your must-have list? If you’re unsure, you can get ideas from Pinterest or Houzz, or chat to an experienced professional for advice on what to think about. At this point you should also consider how much you comfortably have to spend and when you want the project completed, to check that your expectations are realistic.
Nailing down specifics at this stage will mean you aren’t disappointed later when you realise that you actually needed a separate utility room to dry your laundry in, or the new bedroom won’t be ready by the time the new baby arrives.
If you are eager to do some homework, you can check out the policy and design guidance that your local authority has published on their website. But if it makes your head spin, don’t worry – we’re here to help!
Design Work Studios