Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Need to Know
Get clear answers about planning, costs, timelines, and how we manage your London home project from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get clear answers about planning, costs, timelines, and how we manage your London home project from start to finish.
How to begin your project with us
Simply fill out our contact form or call us on 020 3633 5529. We'll arrange a free site visit at your convenience to discuss your ideas, assess the property, and understand your requirements. Within a few days, you'll receive a detailed written quote with a clear scope of work and pricing.
Yes, absolutely. Your first site visit and consultation are completely free with no obligation. We'll discuss your vision, assess feasibility, and provide initial guidance on costs and timelines before you commit to anything.
We primarily serve North and Greater London, including Palmers Green, Finchley, Barnet, Enfield, Muswell Hill, Highgate, Crouch End, Wood Green, Tottenham, and Hampstead. If you're outside these areas, get in touch - we may still be able to help depending on project scope.
Once designs are approved, planning permission granted (if required), and contracts signed, we typically start within 2-4 weeks. Our current lead time varies by season - we'll give you a realistic start date during our initial consultation.
Permissions, drawings, and approvals
It depends on the size and type of extension. Many rear extensions fall under "Permitted Development" rights and don't require planning permission. However, factors like property location (conservation area, listed building), extension size, and proximity to boundaries affect this. We'll advise you during our site visit and handle all necessary applications.
Yes. We work with experienced architects and can manage the entire design process on your behalf. This includes initial concepts, detailed drawings, structural calculations, and all submissions to the local council and Building Control. Alternatively, if you already have an architect, we're happy to work with them.
Standard planning applications typically take 8 weeks for a decision, though some councils may take longer. Prior approval applications (for larger extensions under Permitted Development) usually take 6 weeks. We'll give you a realistic timeline based on your local council's current processing times.
Building Regulations are separate from planning permission and ensure your project meets safety and energy standards. Most construction work requires Building Regulations approval. We handle all Building Control applications and inspections, and you'll receive a completion certificate when the work is signed off.
If your project involves work on or near a shared wall, boundary, or excavation close to a neighbour's property, you'll likely need a Party Wall Agreement. We can advise on whether this applies and recommend experienced party wall surveyors to handle the process.
Pricing, quotes, and payment terms
Extension costs vary based on size, specification, and complexity. As a rough guide, a single-storey rear extension in London typically ranges from £50,000-£100,000+, while a loft conversion might be £45,000-£80,000+. We provide detailed, fixed-price quotes so you know exactly what to expect - no hidden costs or surprises.
Yes. Once we've completed the design phase and have detailed drawings, we provide a comprehensive fixed-price quote. This covers all labour, materials, and specified finishes. The only things that might change the price are variations you request during the build.
We use a staged payment schedule tied to project milestones. Typically: a deposit to secure the start date, then payments at key stages (foundations, first fix, second fix, completion). You only pay for completed work, and we'll agree the exact schedule before starting.
We understand that sometimes you'll want to adjust things once work is underway. We'll discuss any changes with you, provide a written quote for additional work, and only proceed once you've approved it. All variations are documented to keep everything transparent.
Yes, we require a deposit to secure your start date and order initial materials. This is typically 10-15% of the project value. The deposit is deducted from your final payment, and all payments are protected under our standard contract terms.
What to expect while we build
In most cases, yes. We plan the work in phases to minimize disruption and maintain safe access to your home. For major refurbishments or work affecting kitchens/bathrooms, we'll discuss the best approach - some clients prefer to stay, others arrange temporary accommodation for specific phases.
Timelines vary by project type. Typical durations: Single-storey extension: 10-14 weeks. Double-storey extension: 14-20 weeks. Loft conversion: 8-12 weeks. Full refurbishment: 12-24 weeks. We'll provide a detailed schedule with your quote and keep you updated on progress.
Our teams typically work Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. We occasionally work Saturdays (9am to 1pm) if needed to keep the project on track, but we'll always agree this with you first. We respect your neighbours and comply with local council noise restrictions.
We take site cleanliness seriously. Our teams tidy work areas daily, use dust sheets and protective coverings, and remove debris regularly. We maintain clear, safe access routes and secure the site at the end of each day. You'll notice the difference compared to other builders.
You'll receive weekly progress updates with photos, usually on Fridays. For key milestones (foundations, first fix, etc.), we'll arrange a walkthrough with you. Your project manager is also available throughout the week for any questions or concerns.
You'll have a dedicated project manager who oversees your build from start to finish. They're your single point of contact for all questions, decisions, and updates. You'll also meet our site manager who handles day-to-day operations on site.
Guarantees, aftercare, and documentation
All our workmanship is covered by a 3-year guarantee. If anything we've done develops a fault within this period, we'll fix it at no cost. Materials and products (boilers, windows, etc.) come with their own manufacturer warranties, which we register on your behalf.
We conduct a thorough walkthrough with you to check every detail. Any snagging items are noted and resolved promptly. You'll receive a complete handover pack with all certificates, warranties, maintenance guides, and emergency contact details. We don't consider the job done until you're completely satisfied.
Depending on your project, you'll receive: Building Control Completion Certificate, Electrical Safety Certificate, Gas Safe Certificate (if applicable), EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), structural engineer sign-offs, and any relevant warranties. These are essential for insurance and future sale of your property.
Just call or email us. For emergencies (leaks, electrical issues), we aim for same-day response. For non-urgent matters, we'll be in touch within 48 hours. We also proactively check in at 6 weeks and 6 months after completion to ensure everything is perfect.
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our team is here to help. Get in touch and we'll respond within 24 hours.
Book a free site visit and let's discuss how we can transform your home.