The Process

Whether it’s a new build dwelling, an extension or a refurb, kick-starting your project just takes a phone call! A member of our friendly, experienced team will be happy to answer all your questions and advise you on the best way forward. We’ll carry out a free review of your proposal to check its suitability before taking any further steps.

If your proposal is viable, we’ll organise a site visit to discuss your project face-to-face. This can be conducted when it suits you; visits are available 7 days a week, including evenings.

At this stage, a member of our team will view the property in question. We’ll discuss your ideas and advise you on what is realistically possible, based on local planning constraints and your budget. We’ll then issue a quotation for the overall cost of our services. From planning drawings to structural calculations, we do everything within our comprehensive service, so you needn’t worry about hidden charges. 

If you’re happy to go ahead with Plan Masters, we’ll conduct a site survey. This allows us to collect all the necessary data from your property such as accurate measurements, boundary lines and photos. Site surveys typically take around 2-3 hours to complete. It’s crucial for the next stages that we take this time to carefully gather property data and measurements. 

The Design Stage

Using the data collected during the site survey – and, of course, your original vision for the project – we’ll produce the first draft plans and forward them to you. Our experienced architects will work closely with you to ensure you get the design you want and were expecting. We truly are great listeners! We have the skills to turn your ideas into something beautiful, practical and unique to your taste – but that’s also realistic and compliant with building regulations. 

We’ll provide 2D drawings and 3D visualisations so you can see and understand every fine detail of your plans. Drafting in this way allows for alterations to be made before your proposed plans are finalised. Our design team takes great care to take your plans to the next level while ensuring the proposed works comply with your district council’s strict planning requirements. 

Submission of Application

Our administration team has years of experience in handling planning applications. Their sole job is to deal with the council to ensure your application is dealt with quickly. We’ll determine which type of application is required and gather all the necessary documentation to accompany the submission. Crucially, we know what is likely to be approved or rejected by the council, which gives us an advantage when negotiating. 

Depending on the volume of applications your council is dealing with at the time, the approval process can take around 8-10 weeks. 

During the Application Process

We’ll liaise with you and the council during the application stage so you’re always kept in the loop about developments or delays. We provide fast, free amendments to your plans if required by the council to increase the chances of your proposal being approved.

Building Regulations and Engineering Calculations

Once the council has approved your plans, it’s time for us to start working on the building regulation plans. These are used by building control and your building contractor. They show all the materials to be used along with the correct construction methods (these must meet UK Building Regulation Standards). 

We’ll apply our meticulous eye for detail to the building regulation drawings. We’re careful to include information for materials, methods, safety, access, insulation and energy conservation. Our thorough approach is aimed at meeting legal requirements, limiting potential risks and delays, and giving your contractor the confidence to proceed. On completion, the plans are sent to our structural engineer so calculations can be made for any steel that will be used in your build. 

Building Control Application

Once you’ve chosen a contractor and determined a start date for your project, we’ll submit your application to building control. We’ll provide free revisions on your drawings if any are necessary and will be happy to answer any questions from you or your contractor. 

Build Over Agreements and Water Boards

We’ll also submit a set of plans to your local water board to obtain a build over agreement. This is required if you’re building over or close to any sewage pipes or manholes. 

The Build

Throughout the construction phase, building control will visit your site to ensure your build meets UK standards. We’ll liaise with your building inspector throughout to ensure the project is running smoothly, to budget and timeframe. 

Finalise and Close Out

The stage you’ve been waiting for: you can now enjoy your new build, conversion, extension or refurb! The Plan Masters team has worked hard to exceed your expectations and ensure you’re fully satisfied with the results. We’d appreciate it if you could review our service and spread the word about us. And we’ll look forward to the next project with you!

The Plan Masters Design and Build Service

All building projects require hard work and commitment; they’re often challenging and can be daunting no matter your level of experience. With Plan Masters, your project is in safe hands, from our initial meeting to the completion of your build. Our service covers every aspect of the build, eliminating the time-consuming and confusing search for separate, specialist companies. 

We’ve worked on countless projects throughout London, from period properties to contemporary homes. Take a look at our case studies or get in touch with our friendly team for more information. We’re just as eager as you to get started on your project!