Guides

Guides for homeowners

Plain-English guides to the building work we do, the planning rules around it and what to expect along the way.

• Loft conversions

  Loft conversion types explained: dormer, hip-to-gable and mansard

  A plain-English guide to rear dormer, L-shaped, hip-to-gable, mansard and roof-light loft conversions, and what South West London councils allow.

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• House extensions

  Do I need planning permission for a house extension?

  When a house extension needs planning permission, when permitted development applies, and how councils across South West London apply the rules.

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• House extensions

  The Party Wall Act for homeowners: what to expect

  A plain-English guide to the Party Wall etc. Act 1996: which building work needs notice, how neighbours respond, surveyors and awards.

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• House extensions

  Side-return extensions on Victorian and Edwardian terraces

  How side-return and wraparound extensions work on period terraces: planning, boundary walls, light, drainage and what local councils expect.

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• Basement conversions

  Basement conversions in London: what's involved

  What a London basement conversion involves: cellar conversion vs excavation, waterproofing, council basement policies, flood risk and neighbours.

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• Kitchens

  Planning a kitchen extension: sequencing structure, services and fit-out

  How a kitchen extension comes together, step by step: layout, approvals, structure, services, screed, fit-out and sign-off, and why order matters.

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• House extensions

  How to compare builders' quotes like-for-like

  How to compare builders' quotes fairly: fixed quotes vs estimates, provisional sums, exclusions, VAT, payment stages, contracts and checking the builder.

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