QUESTIONS?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Am I really able to measure my house myself?
Absolutely. It’s a really simple process of sketching the layout and measuring the walls and windows. If you have old Estate Agent plans, then just let us have a copy of those and we'll let you know what else to measure. Don't worry, we'll let you know exactly what we need and if something doesn't add up, we can always ask you to check.
How can you complete the drawings so quickly?
We have a dedicated team that's sole purpose is to create planning and Building Regulations drawings. We don't project manage your build on-site and we also don't spend time travelling to meetings and drinking tea. This means we spend all of our time focussed on producing the highest quality drawings in the shortest possible time.
Will your Planning Drawings be as good as my local Architect's drawings?
Yes. In fact we are confident enough to say that, in many cases, our drawings will be far better than your high street Architect's. We use state of the art technology to ensure everything works together and your builder doesn’t get tasked with building the impossible.
Do I need a site survey?
We will be happy to come and measure for you*, however, this something you can easily do yourself. You can use old estate agent drawings or simply sketch the layout and add window and wall measurements.
Will I need a Structural Engineer?
Dependant on your proposed design, it is likely that you may need structural calculations. We will provide you with specifications for foundations for approval by Building Control and if you need steel calculations, we will find you a suitable Structural Engineer.
Do I need an architect to visit?
No. We can provide you with everything you need to allow you to complete your project.
Do I really need planning drawings?
You can build without drawings, however this does mean your builder will have to 'freestyle' your build and 'estimate' your build costs. This is not an great situation to be in unless you have an open budget and 100% confidence in your builder .
Do I need to comply with Building Reglations?
Approval from your local Building Control is needed in the majority of cases.
Do I need Planning Permission?
We can help you decide whether you can proceed under Permitted Development rules or need Planning Permission.
The Planning Portal also has a great tool for understanding planning/Building regulations requirements called 'Interactive House'. Follow this link: https://interactive.planningportal.co.uk/
How long will it take for you to complete my drawings?
Once we have your measurements and understand what you want to achieve, we will have your drawings ready within 3 weeks.
If you need them sooner, just let us know and we can fast-track them for a little extra.
Can you obtain my Planning Permission for me?
Yes. We will act as your agent and submit all of the necessary information and drawings to your local council. If they have any queries or questions we will liaise directly with the council on your behalf.
Can you help me understand how long my building project will take?
Yes. Our 'Build Pricing' service includes a schedule breakdown by discipline e.g. demolitions/roofing/plumbing. This will help you understand how long you can expect your project to take and also whether you are ahead or behind schedule once your build starts.
Can you tell me how much my project is likely to cost?
Why should I use AMZAK?
What other services do AMZAK offer?
AMZAK provide everything you need to get your project approved by Planning and Building Control and then quoted and off the ground with your builder.
Not only this, we can also help you in other ways that are not usually offered by your local Architect, such as:
Why don't I just use a local architect?
What happens if my planning application is refused?
It's not unusual for planning applications to be refused initially, however, the council will normally provide details of their objections and reasons for refusal.
Why are you so much cheaper than my local Architect?
The majority of our work is online and therefore we don't spend much time travelling and in meetings. Most of our time is spent producing planning & Building Regulations drawings, which means we can pass the costs we save back to you.
Do I need to pay for everthing upfront?
No. Again, unlike most traditional Architects, you pay a small deposit of £49.00 to secure your place in the queue. You only pay the balance when your drawings are ready to be submitted to your local council.