As a luxury property developer, we get asked a whole plethora of questions when it comes to working with us. However, there are some that get asked more than others, particularly at the start of any project.
We understand that you may have a million questions, and we encourage you to ask away, as it allows for clarity and can help us complete our work together in a more efficient and effective manner.
1 – HOW LONG DOES THE PROJECT TAKE?
The answer to this is widely varied and dependent on an abundance of variables, it’s almost impossible to give an accurate, straightforward answer.
Inside this simple question, follows an almost endless list of variables that vary project timeframes, such as –
- What works are you having done?
- What is the size of the project?
- What are the possible obstacles we may encounter?
- What materials are being used and are they readily available?
Once we have provided pricing quotations, the contract of terms and pre-construction design works have been agreed, the work and payment schedule is introduced which outlines everything you need to know regarding timings.
We do, however, promise you that it’ll be worth the wait.
2 – HOW MUCH WILL THE PROJECT COST?
Similar to the above, there is no textbook response to this question due to the long list of variables.
Costings of projects can depend on many factors, such as –
- What materials are being used?
- Where are the materials being imported from?
- How big is the project?
- How many individuals are involved in the project?
When it comes to pricing projects, we consider all of the above variables, along with what your budget is. First we gain an estimate of costs from preliminary plans, which leads to a quotation of costs from building regulations and structural plans. From these, we can begin the exciting process of getting started!
3 – WHEN CAN YOU START?
Once the relevant paperwork has been signed following pricing quotations, and we’re all ready and raring to go, the next important question is when can we start?
Once we have received pre-construction drawings via our architect, structural engineer or principal designer (depending on the type of project), we can then implement these designs into a factual quotation, which then is to be contractually signed for.
The sub-contractor contracts then follow. The staged payments with construction phase then comes into play. Building control and sign-off then occurs, which is followed by the fun part – project management!
Every client journey is different, depending on the scope of the project and the many variables involved; however every project follows the same rough guidance.
4 – WHAT TYPE OF PLANNING PERMISSION DO I REQUIRE?
Depending on the works that are being carried out, varying planning requirements are needed.
General Planning Permissions are needed for projects such as:
- Developments
- Commercial
- New builds
- Large home alterations (eg. double storey extensions, large rear extensions and roof raises)
Lawful Development Certificates, which is an ‘Outline Planning Permission’ are required for:
- Small rear extensions
- Loft conversions
- Garage conversions
- Garden rooms
It is important to note that building regulations from your architect and structural engineer are needed for both of the above-mentioned schemes, to obtain building control sign-off.
All of the above are a very small handful of the questions we get asked, and we are more than happy to answer any and all the questions you may have. We understand that taking on work as this can be a stressful time, and here at London 101 we do all we can to help alleviate any worries you may have.
Whether you’re after a beautiful double-story extension, new creative office space or a completely bespoke development, get in touch with us to discuss your options