Frequently asked questions about building work in London

Use the quote form on our contact page or give us a call. Tell us what you would like built, the type of property and where it is. We will come back to you, arrange a site visit if one is needed and provide the quote in writing.

Yes. Choose “Request a site visit” on the contact form and tell us your preferred date. A preferred date is a request only, so we will contact you to agree a time that works for both of us.

We work across London. If you are unsure whether we cover your area, send us your postcode and we will let you know.

We carry out house extensions, loft conversions, refurbishments, new builds and commercial construction. If your project is not on that list, get in touch and we will tell you honestly whether we can help.

No. If you already have plans, send them and they will help us quote more accurately. If you do not, tell us what you have in mind and we will talk through the next steps.

It depends on the property and the work. Some extensions and loft conversions can be built under permitted development rights, but homes in conservation areas, flats and properties with removed rights usually need planning permission. Your local planning authority has the final say, and we will explain what is likely to apply.

Building Regulations set standards for the safety and performance of building work, such as structure, fire safety, insulation and drainage. Most extensions, loft conversions and structural alterations need Building Regulations approval, even when planning permission is not required.

If your work affects a wall you share with a neighbour, builds on or near the boundary or involves deep excavation close to their building, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 may require you to give your neighbour notice before work starts. We can explain when this is likely to apply.

Often yes, but it depends on the project. Tell us your plans and we will discuss how the work can be phased and how the parts of the home you are using will be protected.

It depends on the building. Flats and maisonettes do not have the same permitted development rights as houses, and the freeholder or building owner usually has to agree. Tell us about the building and we will explain what is likely to be involved.

Yes. If you already have an architect or designer, send us the drawings and specification and we will price the work from them. We will tell you if anything is missing that we need to quote accurately.

Yes. We carry out refurbishment, fit-out and construction for shops, offices, restaurants and similar premises. Tell us about the premises and whether you will keep trading during the work.

The type of work, the property type and postcode, any drawings you have, your ideal start date and whether you will be living in the property. Our guide to preparing for a builder’s quote has a full checklist.

Every project is different, so we do not quote timings or prices before we understand the work. After we have reviewed your plans or visited the property we will give you a written quote and talk you through the programme.

It depends on the size, the design, the structure and the finish, so we do not give a figure without looking at the work. We give a written quote that shows what is included and what is not. Our guides on loft conversion costs and extension costs explain what affects the price.

Yes. We build rear, side-return, wrap-around and double-storey extensions. Tell us about your property and we will explain which options are realistic and which permissions are likely to apply.

Most loft conversions and extensions that open up walls or change floors need structural calculations for Building Regulations approval. We will tell you what is needed for your project and when.

Often, yes. Leases commonly require the freeholder’s written consent for structural changes and may restrict other work, flooring and working hours. Check your lease before you finalise a design, and tell us what it says so we can plan around it.