Most people who contact us have never had building work done before, and the questions they ask are nearly always the same. How much disruption should I expect? Do I need permission for this? What happens if something unexpected turns up once the walls are open? Those are fair questions, and they deserve a straight answer rather than a sales pitch.
Below are the ones we answer most often on extensions, refurbishments and conversions across Peterborough, Cambridge, Northampton, Milton Keynes and the surrounding towns. Every project is different, so treat this as general guidance rather than a quotation — if your question is not here, ask us directly and we will tell you honestly what your own build involves.
Do I need planning permission for a rear extension?
Not always. Many single-storey rear extensions fall under permitted development, provided they stay within the limits on depth, height, eaves and how much of the garden they cover. Double storey additions, and properties in conservation areas, flats or listed buildings, usually need a full application. We check your property's status before any work starts so there are no surprises later.
Planning
How long does an extension take to build?
A typical single-storey extension runs around 12 to 16 weeks on site once work begins, while double storey projects often take 20 to 26 weeks. Weather, structural surprises and material lead times all affect that, so we confirm a realistic programme for your project in writing before we start rather than working to a best-case guess.
Timelines
Can I stay in the house while the work is being done?
In most cases yes. Extensions and refurbishments are usually phased so you keep a working kitchen and bathroom, and the site is sealed off at the end of each day. For whole-house refurbishments and conversions there is a point where moving out is more practical, and we will tell you honestly if your project is one of them.
Working With Us
Do you provide a fixed price or an estimate?
We quote from drawings and a specification, broken down by stage, so you can see what each part of the build costs. Structural surprises behind existing walls cannot be priced until they are exposed, so we agree a clear procedure for variations in advance — nothing is added to your bill without your approval first.
Budgets
Do you handle building regulations and structural calculations?
Yes. Building regulations approval, structural engineer's calculations and party wall matters are all part of what we coordinate. Where drawings or engineering information are not yet in place, we will point you to the right people before your project is priced, so the quotation is based on something real.
Planning
Can you take on structural alterations such as removing a wall or installing steelwork?
Yes. Knock-throughs, new openings, steel beams and columns, and underpinning are routine work for us. Anything structural is supported with temporary works while it is opened up, calculated by an engineer, and installed permanently before the surrounding masonry is closed and finished.
Structural
What is an HMO conversion and how is it different from a refurbishment?
An HMO, or house in multiple occupation, is let to several individual tenants who share facilities, so the building has to work much harder than a single-family home. That means reconfiguring the layout into independent rooms, meeting fire, sound and electrical requirements, and specifying finishes that survive constant use. It is a different discipline from a standard refurbishment.
Conversions
What areas do you cover?
We work across Peterborough, Cambridge, Huntingdon, Stamford, Oakham, Corby, Kettering, Northampton, Leicester, Market Harborough, Bedford, Milton Keynes and Ely, along with the towns and villages between them in the East Midlands and surrounding counties.
Working With Us
Still have a question?
Ask us directly and we will give you a straight answer about your own project.
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