Architecture, planning and building regulations FAQs

The earlier the better. Bringing us on board at the start of your project ensures the best outcome. Whether you are planning a new build, extension, renovation or conversion, early involvement allows us to shape the design, navigate planning requirements and save you time and money in the long run.

We specialise in a wide range of projects, including residential extensions, new builds, interior remodelling, commercial fit-outs, and heritage restorations. From modest home improvements to large developments, we bring the same passion and expertise to every project we take on.

Yes, we work on both residential and commercial projects. Whether you are looking to design your dream home, renovate an existing space, or develop a commercial property, our team has the expertise to bring your vision to life.

Absolutely. We welcome projects of all sizes, from small home renovations and single-room redesigns to large-scale new builds. Every project receives the same level of care, creativity, and attention to detail regardless of its size or budget.

Yes, we have experience working with heritage and listed buildings. We understand the specialist knowledge and care these projects require, and work within all relevant conservation guidelines to sensitively restore or extend your property while preserving its historic character.

We completely understand that ideas evolve throughout the design journey. We build in regular review points, so you have plenty of opportunities to give feedback and request adjustments. Minor changes can usually be accommodated smoothly, while larger revisions may affect the timeline or cost, which we will always discuss with you openly and in advance.

We are based in London and proudly serve clients across Birmingham, Manchester, and the surrounding areas. We also take on projects throughout the wider UK depending on scope and requirements, so feel free to get in touch to discuss your location.

Not always. Some projects fall under Permitted Development rights, meaning no formal planning permission is required. However, this depends on the size, location and type of work involved. Where permission is needed, we handle the entire process on your behalf, from preparing and submitting drawings to liaising with the local planning authority, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Planning permission is formal approval from your local council required for most significant building works. Permitted Development, on the other hand, allows certain smaller works to be carried out without needing that formal approval, subject to size and location limits. We will assess which route applies to your project and guide you through accordingly.

A refusal is not the end of the road. We will review the reasons given by the council, advise on the best course of action and either revise and resubmit the application or lodge a formal appeal on your behalf. Many refused applications are ultimately approved with the right approach.

Most standard planning applications take 8 to 13 weeks for a decision from the local authority. More complex applications can take longer. We manage the entire submission process and keep you updated throughout, so there are no surprises along the way.

A Chartered Architectural Technologist specialises in the science and technology behind building design. They produce detailed technical drawings, specifications and documentation needed to construct a building safely and efficiently. They work alongside architects and engineers to ensure your project is buildable, compliant and delivered to the highest standard. Zaman Archihomes Ltd is a CIAT Chartered Practice of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

Choosing a Chartered Architectural Technologist means working with a qualified professional who combines creative design with deep technical knowledge. They ensure your project is designed accurately, meets building regulations and is cost-efficient to construct. Their chartered status also gives you confidence that they are held to rigorous professional and ethical standards throughout your project.

Our fees vary depending on the size, complexity and scope of your project. We offer transparent, competitive pricing and will provide a clear fee proposal before any work begins. Get in touch for a free initial consultation and we will put together a tailored quote for you.

Yes, we can. While we are not quantity surveyors, we work closely with you to ensure the design stays realistic and aligned with your budget. We can also recommend trusted contractors and help you understand where costs can be managed without compromising on quality or design.

All fees quoted are subject to VAT at the standard rate unless otherwise stated. We will always make this clear in your fee proposal so there are no unexpected surprises. If you have any questions about our pricing structure, we are happy to discuss them with you.

Every project is different, but as a general guide, a typical residential extension or loft conversion in the UK takes between 12 and 18 months from your first consultation to completion on site. This includes the design stages, planning application, technical design, and construction. A new build home or larger project can take anywhere from 18 months to three years or more, depending on scale and complexity. Planning alone can take between 8 and 13 weeks for a standard householder application, and building regulations approval adds further time before construction can begin. Unforeseen site conditions, contractor availability, and material lead times can also affect the overall programme. We map out a realistic timeline with you at the very start, so you always know where you are in the process and what is coming next.

The RIBA Plan of Work has seven stages from strategic definition through to use. Most residential projects require stages 1 to 5, covering initial briefing, concept design, planning, technical design and construction. We will advise which stages are relevant to your project and tailor our service accordingly.

Many projects, particularly extensions and new builds, will require a structural engineer to design foundations, beams and load-bearing elements. We will advise you early on whether one is needed and can recommend trusted engineers we work with regularly, coordinating their input alongside our own drawings seamlessly.

A party wall agreement is a legal document required when your building work affects a shared wall, boundary or excavation near a neighbouring property. If your project triggers the Party Wall Act, you will need to notify your neighbours formally. We can advise whether this applies and point you in the right direction.

Planning permission controls whether a development is acceptable in terms of appearance, use and impact on the surrounding area. Building regulations ensure the construction itself is safe, structurally sound and energy efficient. You may need both, and we will guide you through each process clearly from the start.

We handle the building regulations application on your behalf as part of our service. We prepare the necessary technical drawings and documentation and submit them to either the local authority or an approved inspector, ensuring your project meets all required standards before construction begins.

A completion certificate is issued by the building control authority once your project has been inspected and confirmed to meet all building regulations. It is an important document that proves the work was carried out correctly and is often required when selling your home or remortgaging in the future.

Yes, we have experience designing energy-efficient homes and can work to Passivhaus principles, which focus on exceptional insulation, airtightness and controlled ventilation to drastically reduce energy consumption. Whether you want a fully certified Passivhaus or simply a more sustainable, low energy home, we will design a solution that suits your goals and budget.

An Energy Performance Certificate rates how energy efficient a property is, from A being the most efficient to G the least. The materials, insulation, glazing, heating systems and renewable technologies specified during the design stage all directly influence the rating. We factor energy performance into our designs from the outset to help you achieve the best possible result.