Good day,

I'm trying to get an idea of how long it usually takes to get plans drawn up by an architect. We're having a small extension, which is within permitted development limits, so council approval is not required. So the drawings will be for building regulations and to build from.

I understand this will depend on the architect we use and how busy they are, but just as a rough idea how long would this usually take? Days (unlikely i know), weeks or months?

Thanks, Doc

Firstly, ask your neighbours if they will object, even though you may not need 'permission' they can still be a 'pain' if they don't fully agree.(Check for any 'party wall aggreement' requirements ~ even if its not a semi it may be close enough to 'boundary' to require some investigation ) As for the drawings, It should only take a couple of weeks, but you would be wise to check if they include all the structural engineers calculations / spec . Also ask for a jargon free spec , simple to follow measurements etc ~ (you shouldn't need a magnifying glass to read the spec )so you know at a glance what materials are to be used, many materials come under different names / specs, the builders merchants don't always know the full spec (ie U value of insulation ) ~ speak to your builder to ask what he expects from the drawings, some are really good at deciphering the spec / jargon, some just say 'that'll be ok' (beware of 'that'll be ok') You will need building regulations approval even if you don't need planning, keep on the right side of building inspector he will be useful to you, Finally , you will need it all signed off by building inspector, electrician,FENSA, Gas Safe etc,etc so that when you come to sell, in years to come you have all the necessary approvals & certificates (keep in safe place)