Timescales
The
length of time it takes before you can start building will obviously depend
on a huge number of factors. Events are often beyond the control of both Architect
and Client, and so the timescale will evolve as the project progresses.
Brief and Initial Design
This is the part of the project which is often rushed but is actually the most
important. Changes made later on in the project will often be costly in terms
of time
and money. It is worth investing a number of weeks to ensure the design is right.
Planning Permission
When the drawings are ready and an application for Planning Permission is made,
it can take the Local Authority anything between 2 to 3 months to make a decision.
If the design is contentious or involves a Listed Building, it can take much
longer.
Building Warrant
It can take 3 to 4 weeks to prepare these drawings, but if specialist input
is required from other consultants, it can take longer. Once submitted, the
Local Authority will usually take anything between one and two months to assess
the application, however this varies considerably around the country.
Detailed Drawings and Specification
To prepare specification documents and drawings for pricing can take around
a month.
Tender and Pricing
You should allow at least a month to obtain a price from a Contractor. This
will vary depending on whether formal tender procedures are followed or a price
is negotiated.
Building on Site
This varies depending on the size and complexity of the project, whether the
work is phased and the time of year it is carried out. An average small house
extension may take approximately 3 to 4 months from start to completion.
You could assume that it will take around a year from the inital design to the completion of the building work.This estimate is based on a domestic house extension. For other project types and sizes please contact GBA Ltd. for advice.
