Frequently Asked Questions
PLANNING PERMISSION
Do I need planning permission?
Whether you need planning permission depends on a number of factors, such as size, location and the type of extension you would like. For further information and guidance, please refer to Is Planning Required? in the Questions and Answers section.
How long will it take to obtain planning permission?
Planning permission generally takes 8 weeks. Your local council may take longer if your application is of a complex nature. Please refer to The Planning Process in the Questions and Answers section.
I’ve received planning permission. How long is my planning permission valid for?
Once you have received planning permission it is valid for three years, unless specifically stated. Should the three year period elapse before work commences, you may need to reapply.
Will HandyPlan submit my planning application?
If you would like us to submit your planning application, we will be happy to support you. HandyPlan will register as your planning agent and complete all the necessary documentation and file your application. All communication from the Local Authority regarding your planning application will then be dealt with by our experienced team. There is a charge for this additional service. Please refer to Pricing for more details.
BUILDING REGULATIONS
What are Building Regulations & British Standards?
The Building Regulations is a statutory instrument enforceable by law. It lays down regional minimum standards of construction for all types of buildings. A British Standard is a national minimum standard for building work.
Do I require Building Regulations?
Normally, Building Regulations are required for all new buildings and alterations to existing buildings whether domestic, commercial or industrial.
Does Handy Plan provide Building Regulations?
HandyPlan can provide Building Regulations of your planning drawings at the interim stage. HandyPlan will ensure that all Building Regulations are produced to meet current legislation.
I already have planning permission but require Building Regulations. Can HandyPlan still provide them?
Yes. Building Regulations services are purchased online in precisely the same way as you bought Planning Services.
MEASURING
Do I need to take the measurements of my house myself?
An interactive measurement plan will be prepared to simplify the process of measuring your house. If you are still not comfortable, we can take measurements on your behalf for an additional charge.
How does the interactive measurement plan work?
It is very straightforward. HandyPlan will prepare a plan showing all the dimensions required; this is then uploaded to your secure account for you to access. Simply open the plan and key in your measurements online. You have plenty of time to complete your interactive plan; measurements can be saved, allowing you to return to your plan at any time until all the dimensions have been entered.
SKETCHES
I don’t have a scanner. How do I send you my sketches?
HandyPlan offers a flexible service. If you don’t have access to a scanner, simply fax or post them to us.
GENERAL
What makes your prices so much cheaper than everyone else?
Because we use the most technologically advanced 3D modeling and CAD software, we can quickly and efficiently produce high quality drawings. Because so many people choose us, we can pass on these savings directly to you.
Is the work you produced covered by insurance?
Absolutely, HandyPlan is fully insured. Our professional indemnity insurance provides cover to £250,000 for each individual project, offering you complete peace of mind and protection.
Does HandyPlan carry out all the Planning Drawings and Building Regulations in house?
To maintain our reputation and ensure that we provide a consistently high service, we insist that all Planning Drawings and Building Regulations are produced in house. We never subcontract out work.
What areas of the country do you cover?
HandyPlan works across the all of the UK, so no matter where you live we are able to provide you a cost effective, reliable and professional service.
How long will it take HandyPlan to produce my drawings?
Producing your drawings online is quick and efficient. Normally we can have your plans ready within a couple of days, once you have supplied us with the necessary information.
How will I receive my drawings?
Your drawings will be uploaded to your secure account for you to download and print off at your convenience. HandyPlan will then send you an A1 copy of your Planning Drawings, together with a site location plan for your records, via the post. If you would like to order additional prints, please see below for our charges.
What size are the drawings?
HandyPlan produce conceptual drawings at A4 size. The preliminary and final drawings are produced in A1 size format.
