Answers.

There is no single standard fee. Fees depend on project size, complexity, scope, and stages of service. They may be fixed, percentage-based, time-based, or by stage. ARB confirms there is no standard tariff. Read our full guide to fees.

This depends on the agreed scope. Services can range from preparation and feasibility through concept, planning, spatial coordination, and technical design. Always check which stages, drawings, and deliverables are included in your fee proposal.

Not necessarily. The practice may prepare and submit a planning application, but the statutory application fee is a separate cost.

It depends on the appointment. Where technical design forms part of the service, we may prepare Building Regulations information and coordinate relevant technical requirements. Confirm in the fee proposal.

Yes. The first meeting is always free. We discuss your project, answer initial questions, and provide a fixed-fee proposal if you want to proceed. No obligation.

Within one working day. A director replies to every enquiry personally.

The RIBA Plan of Work is the industry framework for design and construction. There are eight stages, from Stage 0 (strategic definition) to Stage 7 (in use). FADP typically focuses on Stages 1–4: preparation and briefing, concept design, spatial coordination, and technical design. See how we work.

From first meeting to construction completion typically takes 12–18 months depending on complexity and planning time. Simple renovations may take 6–9 months. We provide a realistic programme at the start.

Depending on the property and scope, you may need a measured building, topographical, structural, drainage, or other specialist survey. The right survey should be carried out by a suitably qualified professional.

For many projects, yes. Architectural advice early helps establish scope, design, planning requirements, and technical needs before construction pricing is sought. This avoids expensive surprises later.

No. Planning permission and Building Regulations are separate matters. A project may require planning approval as well as compliance with Building Regulations and any other applicable requirements before construction proceeds.

It depends on the type of work and your location. Most extensions, renovations, and changes of use require planning permission. Some works fall within permitted development rights and don't. We advise you on what's required for your specific project.

Local planning guidance typically allows extensions up to 20–30% of the original property floor area, depending on the council and circumstances. Conservation areas and listed buildings have stricter limits. We assess your property and advise on realistic possibilities.

The local planning authority reviews the application against planning policy. They may ask for additional information. We handle all communication with the authority and keep you informed throughout. Applications typically take 8–13 weeks.

Your local planning authority publishes conservation area maps online. If your property is in one, extra planning controls apply and permitted development rights may be restricted. Learn about conservation area work.

An Article 4 direction removes some or all permitted development rights in a specific area, meaning you need planning permission for works that would otherwise be automatic. Common in conservation areas.

A party wall is any wall shared between two properties. If you carry out work that affects a party wall, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 typically applies. We coordinate with specialist party wall surveyors to ensure compliance.

Only if your work affects a party wall, party structure, or is close to a neighbouring building. Notifiable works include cutting into a shared wall, building near the boundary, or excavating within 3–6 metres of an adjacent building. Learn more.

If a neighbour doesn't respond within 14 days, they're deemed to be in dispute. A party wall surveyor is then appointed to prepare an award. The process still moves forward, it just takes a little longer.

Legal boundary positions rarely appear on Land Registry title plans, which are only indicative. Determining a precise boundary usually requires a Chartered Land Surveyor and consideration of historic records. Boundary dispute solutions.

You can't always tell from the surface. A structural engineer or architect surveys the property and checks floors above, direction of joists, and construction details. Never assume — always get a professional opinion. Wall removal service.

Yes, for any load-bearing wall. Building Regulations apply to structural changes, fire safety, and often insulation and ventilation. We prepare drawings and calculations for approval.

A structural report from a qualified professional determines whether movement is historic and stable, or active and requiring remedial work. We provide reports acceptable to lenders and insurers. Structural reports.

On new-build homes, ideally before you complete legally, or within the first two years of ownership when the developer is still responsible for defects. Snagging surveys.

One of our two directors, from first meeting to project completion. No account managers, no handovers, no juniors sent to your site.

Yes. We agree the scope, then agree the fee in writing before any work begins. If the scope changes, we agree any adjustment before proceeding. No surprises.

66 Paul Street, London EC2A 4NA. We work across the United Kingdom.

Yes. Full professional indemnity cover is in place for all projects.

Send us a message with the basics of your project. A director replies within one working day. First meeting is free. Get a free quote.