Guides
General guidance for planning a project
This is educational information, not personalised professional advice. For anything specific to your property, check with the relevant authority or professional.
Planning permission basics
Whether you need planning permission depends on the scale of the work, your property type, and local rules. Many smaller projects fall under permitted development, but this varies by council and isn't guaranteed. Always check with your local planning authority before finalising a design.
Preparing for a building project
Photographs, rough measurements, and a clear idea of what you want to achieve go a long way before your first conversation with a contractor. Build Vision is designed to help you gather exactly this.
Choosing a contractor
Ask about process, communication, and how scope changes are handled — not just price. A contractor who explains their process clearly, rather than promising the impossible, is usually the safer choice.
Understanding quotations
A quotation should be based on a defined scope. If a figure is given without anyone having seen the site or your plans in detail, treat it as a rough estimate, not a number to rely on.
Extensions vs. renovations
An extension adds new floor space to a property. A renovation improves or updates existing space. Loft conversions and refurbishments often sit somewhere between the two — Build Vision can help you identify which applies.
Site access & materials
Access to the site, storage for materials, and any restrictions on working hours are worth thinking about early — especially for terraced properties or commercial premises with limited access.