PROCESS & PLANNING

Expert Drawing & Planning Management 

A proven 4-step process from survey to approval. Clear, efficient, and stress-free.

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Or call us on: 0208 154 5569

Illustration showing the Fast Plans team discussing the various aspects to our loft conversion and house extension design and planning process

Why our process works

The design and planning process shouldn't be a source of stress. We've refined our approach to eliminate confusion and unnecessary costs. One expert team handles everything, giving you a seamless, efficient experience.

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Fast turnaround

First draft drawings within 2 weeks of survey.

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Expert team

All services in-house - no delays, no extra fees.

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Client-focused

Regular updates and unlimited design revisions.

DESIGN AND PLANNING Process

Our 4-step process

From initial survey to final approval, we handle everything.

Property survey

Our surveyors visit your home to take detailed measurements and assess conversion potential. Quick, thorough, and scheduled at your convenience.

Initial design

You receive your first design draft within 14 days. We'll walk you through the plans and note any adjustments you want.

Planning submission

Once you're happy with the designs, we submit everything to your local council. We manage the entire process and handle any questions from the planning department.

Technical drawing package

After planning approval, we prepare your final building regulation drawings and structural calculations. Your builder gets everything needed to deliver your project.

STEP 1 - PROPERTY SURVEY

Precise measurements matter

Capturing exact measurements for accurate plans. Our qualified surveyors record all internal and external dimensions, structural elements, and architectural features. Essential for contractor quotes and planning applications.

Illustration of a Fast Plans surveyor undertaking a full measured survey on a property for a house extension project
Illustration of a Fast Plans architect preparing drawings and plans for a house extension project

STEP 2 - DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

Bringing your vision to life

Converting your ideas into detailed plans. We guide you through options based on your budget, style, and needs. All designs include:


  • Scale drawings
  • Layout options
  • Construction details
  • Unlimited revisions

STEP 3 -  PLANNING SUBMISSION

Securing your approval

Complete planning management, including:


  • All required documentation
  • Council submissions
  • Application tracking
  • Amendment handling
  • Local authority liaison
Illustration of a Fast Plans planning permission team preparing the planning application for a house extension project
Illustration of a Fast Plans engineer preparing technical drawings and calculations for building control for a house extension project

STEP 4 - TECHNICAL PACKAGE

Building control ready

Full structural and building regulation drawings:


  • Engineering calculations
  • Construction specifications
  • Building control compliance
  • Detailed notes for builders
  • Product specifications

Your project timeline

From design to completion, here's exactly what's included in our service and what requires external input. Use this as your roadmap for a smooth project journey.

Included

Initial design

Property survey and architectural plans development.

Included

Planning permission

Lawful development or full planning application.

Included

Building Reg. drawings

Complete technical drawings and structural calculations.

External

Additional consents

Freeholder consent and covenant checks if needed.

External

Party Wall notices

Neighbour notifications for shared wall works.

External

Party Wall surveyor

Appointment if neighbour agreement isn't reached.

Included

Building control submission

Complete paperwork management and submission.

External

Builder appointment

Project tendering and construction start.

External

Building control sign-off

Final inspection and completion certificate.

Frequently asked questions

Essential information about the design and planning process. 

  • What is a building control final certificate?

    Official document confirming your project meets building regulations. Required for property sales and insurance. Issued after final inspection.

  • What happens if I don't have building control sign-off?

    Your property could be devalued and difficult to sell. You may need to alter or remove work that doesn't comply with regulations.

  • What is the difference between a party wall agreement and a party wall award?

    Agreement: Informal written consent from neighbours.

    Award: Legal document prepared by surveyors when agreement can't be reached.

  • Can I start building work without a party wall agreement?

    No. You must give notice and get either written agreement or a party wall award before starting work on shared walls.

  • What is the main purpose of structural drawings?

    They show how your project will be built safely. Include beam sizes, foundation details, and load calculations. Essential for builders' quotes and building control approval.


Ready to start your project?

Thousands of successful projects delivered across London. Call 0208 154 5569 now or request a callback below.

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