At the initial survey, I offer advice regarding relevant issues, such as:-

Council Planning Policy, Boundaries and The Party Wall Act, Foundations, Drainage, Structure, Roof design, Stairs, Fire, Insulation, Damp, Unforeseen Building costs, Internal layout options, etc...

If it becomes apparent during the initial survey that your requirements may not be feasible, I will explain why and offer alternatives if relevant.

I'm likely to need several hours to just look at, and  talk about the above.  Then if you go ahead with a plan I will need further time to thoroughly measure and photograph the entire building and garden in relation to neighbouring issues as relevant etc.

The difference between me and most of my competitors is that locally I do not charge until after plans have been Council approved.  Except when I advise clients in writing as part of our agreement about a specific Planning risk and they knowingly choose to proceed.  We would normally have a backup design in these circumstances.

By not charging until after my paper work / plans are approved by the authorities, I can't risk 'not' being thorough because any detrimental issues not highlighted during my survey are likely to come to your attention when my paperwork is sent to the authorities, before I'm paid.

I'm not able to allow clients to wrongly assume plans will pass when I know they conflict with Council policy.  I have to be honest.  I can't just say nothing or mislead, just to get paid for drawing plans.

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