Architectural planning can form a substantial part of your everyday dealings as a property investor and in many cases, it can be pivotal to the viability and profitability of your portfolio.
To this end we are privileged to be able to utilise the invaluable expertise and nous of Mr Loay Alhasani (BEng MICE) who is approaching 30 years worth of experience in the sector.
In this section, we will outline a selection of services you as an investor can benefit from; the aim of which is to ensure your envisioned projects come to fruition.
Being privy to the specialist, qualified and impartial knowledge and know-how of a vastly experienced architect, you will be well-informed as to the workability and functionality of your plans as well as the most effective way to execute said plans. Such consultations are bespoke and tailored to the client’s specific requirements.
Planning applications can be submitted on your behalf to the relevant local authority, taking into account your requirements as well as local and national guidelines and policies. This service will afford you the safe hands of a seasoned professional who will do their utmost to maximise your chances of a successful decision. Applications are analysed by individual Planning Officers therefore all decisions are subjective for the most part. Pre-application advice with the local planning department is strongly advised when making planning applications of significant proportions.
Structural alterations or extensions beyond a certain scope in the context of residential properties, will invariably require Building Regulation approval usually in the form of a Full Plans application or Building Notice. Commercial structures will require a full Building Regulation application prior to work commencing.
Plans for said applications entail detailed drawings that make provisions to illustrate compliance with various aspects of the Building Regulations as well as comprehensive construction notes and specification to guide the contractor throughout the building process, allowing them to accurately quote for proposed works.
Legislation is in place in England and Wales which allows applicants to erect, construct and develop on land without the need for a full planning application to be made. One of most common rights afforded which fall under the provisions of Permitted Development are single-storey extensions at the rear of a house. Building Regulation approval will still need to be granted in any case, regardless of whether your plans fall under Permitted Development or not.
An application for a Lawfulness Development Certificate is recommended as this ensures peace of mind as your all your proposed plans will be reviewed by the local authority, and you will be subsequently granted with a certificate if those plans fall within permitted development rights.
Listed buildings/structures within a conservation area are usually steeped in history and of inherent cultural and historical significance, so it is understandable that safeguards are in place to restrict alterations to them. Therefore it would be in your utmost interest to have on board someone who appreciates such an elegantly abstract concept, which enables them to successfully adapt, preserve and restore listed structures for posterity, all the while ensuring that the intricate guidelines surrounding listed structures are adhered to in a delicate and consummate manner.
From 1996, all Land Registry entries require the land in question to be marked and accompanied by a a Title plan that is authenticated by a RICS surveyor.
A detailed survey can be carried out on your behalf by a relevant professional who will in turn produce an accurate plan that satisfy’s the Land Registry’s requirements.
To acquire a HMO licence - which entitles the landlord of a residential property to let out their property to multiple households where toilet/kitchen facilities are shared, with a view to maximise profit - planning permission would need to be sought, and being able to pick the brains of a proficient architect will only lend to the robustness of your application.
From detailed drawings in accordance with HMO regulations to bespoke advice on how best to utilise the living space in your property to ensure heightened returns, all your needs as a fledgling HMO landlord are catered to by our adept professionals.
