How long will it take to complete the project?

Timescales

The most commonly underestimated aspect of a project is the timescale required from initial concept through to completion. Every element can be speeded up and different aspects can be run in parallel, however from our experience the more time allowed for planning and the creation of a reasonable timescale and project plan the quicker, smoother and more efficient the project is likely to be. The following timescale guide is a useful starting point when developing a project plan and draft schedule and based on a reasonably straight forward project of an average size family home extension or new build:

Design: 

From the completion of the design survey to a finished, client approved design can take anywhere from 2 weeks for a simple side extension to 10 weeks for a new build property or replacement dwelling.   

Planning application validation: 

2 - 4 weeks depending on the region and workload of the Local Planning Authority 

Planning Application decision: 

In the majority of cases all decisions should be made within 8 weeks, however some applications are currently taking longer and the LPA will contact the client to ask for additional time if required.

Planning Application appeals:  Planning application appeals are taking around 3 months for a standard homeowner application appeal to around 6-9 months for more complex cases depending on the type of appeal, how the appeal is dealt with, the type of evidence to be assessed and the current case time for the planning inspector.   

Structural engineer calculations and specifications: 

SE packs from good structural engineers are currently taking around 4 - 6 weeks depending on the size and complexity of the job.   

Builder availability and lead times:

The market is very buoyant at the moment and there are very few good builders that aren't busy with many requiring at least 6 months lead time before starting a project and the majority of builders aren't currently offering detailed quotes on projects that don't have planning permission approved (if required).