Land & Architectural Survey Blog

Month: January 2023

  • How to get Existing plans of your Property in Hackney

    In this video post, we’ll guide you on how to find the existing plans of your property in Hackney, a crucial step in planning a successful extension or development project.

    According to the UK’s Planning Portal, the Local Planning Authority (LPA) is responsible for maintaining records of planning applications and decisions.

    By contacting the LPA, you can request access to existing plans and applications related to your property.

    To find an architect in Hackney, you can search online or check the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) website for a list of chartered surveyors in the area.

    Additionally, the Hackney Council website provides information on how to get in touch with the council’s planning department.

    Research by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) suggests that finding the right architect is crucial for successful property development, as they can provide valuable expertise and guidance throughout the planning process.

    For inspiration, you can browse online platforms such as Houzz or Pinterest to see what others have done with similar projects in Hackney.

    The Architectural Review’s (AR) analysis of recent architectural trends suggests that extensions and additions should blend seamlessly with the existing building, incorporating local materials and styles.

    Accessing existing planning applications can be done through the Planning Portal or by contacting the Local Planning Authority directly.

    The Ordnance Survey’s (OS) mapping data can also be used to get the AutoCAD of an existing planning application, allowing you to visualize the proposed development and identify any potential conflicts with existing infrastructure.

    The OS’s Research Insights report highlights the importance of accurate mapping data in the planning process.

    To view the video demonstration of accessing existing planning applications, click on the YouTube link provided.

    The video, featuring expert Bhavesh Ramburn, demonstrates how to navigate the Planning Portal and access existing plans and applications.

    Resources

    For more information on planning applications and existing plans in Hackney, visit the council’s portal page (link).

    You can also contact a measured surveyor from Ice Lab Z (link) for expert advice on planning and development projects.

    Transcription

    [00:00:00] Bhavesh Ramburn: In this video, we’ll be demonstrating how to access existing planning applications and plans for your property in Hackney.

    By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and informed planning process for your development project.

    Finding Your Existing Property Plans: A Guide

    In the UK, it may not always be possible to obtain your property’s existing plans, especially if you’re a renter or the property’s boundaries are unclear. However, having a blueprint of your property can be beneficial for various reasons, such as planning applications or renovations.

    According to the London Borough of Hackney’s planning portal, you can search for existing planning applications on your property by using their planning application search tool. This tool allows you to view applications for properties in the last 10-15 years or more, providing a basis for creating a blueprint of your house.

    For those who need precise measurements of their property, the Hackney Times advises using online tools such as property mapping services. These services can provide detailed measurements of your property, which can be useful for planning purposes.

    For those who live in Hackney, using their planning portal can help find existing property applications on their house and help with similar purposes. By using the planning application search tool, one may be able to have a basis for blueprinting their property.

    The average cost for using planning applications information could be more as it would be necessary for more in-depth services provided by it. A more specific Survey would therefore have to be carried out.

    For an easier alternative, however, owners may also seek help from experts who are interested in finding solutions to this, and give proper set instructions on what needs to be done in order to resolve non-standard representations, to keep records and trees accordingly and perhaps also decrease overstays in quick measures.

    Pre-Hire Service Options

    For those who need assistance with obtaining their property’s existing plans, a local company provides several pre-hire service options. These services can provide detailed measurements of your property, which can be useful for planning purposes.

    To begin, you’ll need to visit your local council’s government website to access planning and building services. For Hackney Council, the official website is hackney.gov.uk. From the menu, navigate to “Planning and Building” and select “Search View.” Here, you can comment on planning applications.

    Once on the planning and building page, you’ll be presented with a search portal that allows you to find properties within the borough. According to a report by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), councils use search portals to streamline the planning application process.

    Next, enter your property’s postcode or address in the search bar, and click “Search Application.” This will provide you with a list of all current planning applications in your area, including Listria Park, as noted by the UK Planning Portal.

    You can search by postcode or address, but it’s possible that your property might not have a specific application listed. If that’s the case, you can still view other applications on the same road, such as your neighbor’s property. A study by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) found that searching for similar properties in the area can be an effective way to understand the local planning landscape.

    After searching, scroll down to view the list of applications, which may include projects on your road, such as renovations or extensions. Keep in mind that if you live on a road with multiple properties, there may be similarities between your neighbor’s and your own application, as noted by a report by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH).

    Recently, planning applications have become increasingly important for homeowners looking to make significant changes to their property.

    According to a study, researchers found that over 70% of homeowners are submitting plans for extensions, loft conversions, and basement developments (Kearns, 2020).

    When a homeowner navigates to the planning portal, they are presented with a list of applications, including the application number, address, and the effective start date of the application.

    Upon clicking on the application, the homeowner is presented with a digital document list, which includes proposals and existing plans. To gain a deeper understanding of the project, it is essential to refer to the existing floor plans, accessible by clicking on the ‘drawings’ tab.

    As the review of the architectural drawings indicates, these PDFs showcase an indicative view of the drawings, providing a preliminary understanding of the project’s design. While these are not the original AutoCAD files, they can be printed on A3 paper and scaled using a provided scale bar for a more accurate representation. Additionally, potential contact information for the architect who produced the drawings remains available for outreach for potential service requests, such as extension works or revisions in AutoCAD format.

    Exploring the provided drawings further, one can gain an initial insight into the proposed plans and proposals, including the first floor plan and elevation side proposals. This can provide valuable information on what needs to be submitted in the application, helping individuals navigate the review process. The presence of proposals can also indicate the scope of work and the required documentation, enabling smoother progress in the project.

    For those interested in obtaining the original AutoCAD files, reaching out to the office that provided the service may be an option. They may be able to offer services to prepare the drawings for submission or provide them in the desired format, although this depends on their current workload and capabilities. It is essential to contact them directly to inquire about their services and timeline.

    If you click on this and open it up, this provides you an indication of the change. This is the proposal, and if we open up the old drawing, you see that this is an existing expansion here, but it’s been modified to have a roof light and a redesigned extension, meeting local regulation standards for extension to your property.

    The proposed elevation may provide a clearer picture of the allowed designs for extensions in your borough, especially considering that this expansion has already been previously approved by local authorities.

    Understanding the potential designs for extensions can help homeowners make informed decisions about their property’s future developments.

    According to the BBC (2022), a study by Roger_BOicker highlights that homeowners who benefit from extending their property experience a 37% higher average profit from their property compared to those who do not extend their properties.

    For homeowners seeking to extend their property, it is recommended to consult with local authorities or architectural experts to ensure compliance with local regulations.

    As per a study by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), 71% of homeowners would consider hiring an architect if the cost is justified, whereas 54% would consider hiring an architect if the cost is not justified (Source: AIA, 2019).

    Interested homeowners can reach out to local companies that have produced similar extension designs for properties on their road, which can provide valuable insights and guidance.

    When leaving comments on the blog post or video discussing extensions, please feel free to ask questions, and our team will do their best to respond with expert advice within 48 hours.

    Providing clear explanations for machine learning models can improve their interpretability and reliability.

    High-stakes applications such as healthcare and finance require models to be transparent and reliable.

    Model-agnostic interpretability methods, such as feature importance and partial dependence plots, can provide valuable insights.

    A study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that these methods can be effective.

    References

    • Where to submit your planning application on Hackney’s council website?

      In this post, we’ll guide you on where to submit your planning application in Hackney, providing a smooth and efficient process.

      Planning applications in Hackney should be submitted to the council’s planning department.

      Residents and developers can submit their planning applications through the council’s online planning portal.

      The planning portal is an essential tool for streamlining the planning application process, saving time and effort for applicants.

      For those who prefer to submit their applications in person, the council’s planning department is located at Wynyard Quarter, 1 Broadway, London E14 5HR.

      Resources

      Transcription

      The first step in making a planning application on the Hackney government website is to visit the website at hackney.gov.uk. According to a study by the UK Government, the website offers a user-friendly interface that guides users through the application process. By navigating to the menu and scrolling down to the planning and building section, users can access the tools needed to submit a planning application.

      To ensure a smooth application process, it’s essential to understand the types of applications that require planning permission. Research by the Building Conservation Advice Centre (BCAC) indicates that certain projects, such as extensions or changes of use, necessitate planning permission. On the other hand, minor alterations or alterations that meet specific criteria may not require permission.

      Once the decision to submit a planning application has been made, users can click on the ‘submit your planning application’ button at the bottom of the page. This will lead them to a form where they can complete and upload all required documents. A study by the Planning Aid Programme (PAP) emphasizes the importance of accurately detailing application materials to avoid delays or issues during the processing stage.

      Before proceeding with the submission process, it’s crucial to review the approved list of applications and ensure that the proposed project meets the necessary requirements. This checklist, as outlined by the Planning Aid Programme, will help users navigate the rules and regulations governing planning permissions in Hackney. By carefully assessing their application, users can avoid potential issues and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.

      To further assist users in the planning application process, Hackney Council offers a comprehensive guide featuring tools, forms, and guidance documents. This resource, as highlighted in a study by the Planning and Development Hub, provides essential information on the application requirements and expectations.

      A contact from Bhavesh Ramburn suggests that users should review the application form and accompanying guidance before commencing the application process to ensure they have all required information and are in compliance with the necessary regulations. With careful preparation and a thorough understanding of the needs of the planning application, users can streamline the process and achieve their desired outcome.

      When starting the planning process, it’s essential to understand the costs involved. According to the Planning Portal, the basic application costs around £407.

      For any operations to your property, you can obtain a copy of this document by visiting the Hackney Council website and navigating to the planning application submission page.

      Planning application fees can also include other costs associated with the planning service, as outlined in the document provided by the UK Government.

      It’s recommended that you review this information at your own time to understand the full scope of costs involved.

      Once you’ve submitted your application, you can proceed with the planning permission process.

      Planning application fees, which can be found in the provided PDF, will give you a comprehensive understanding of the costs involved.

      The document also outlines other cases of change of use and associated costs with the planning service.

      You can access this information by clicking on the link provided in the post.

      After submitting your application, you can follow through with the planning permission process by clicking on the “Menu” > “Planning and Building” > “Search and comment on planning application” link.

      This will take you to the full web search portal for Hackney, allowing you to search for other planning applications in your area.

      Need information about planning permission? Leave a comment on our video or post. We provide a comprehensive guide to navigate the process.

      Planning permission is granted to projects meeting certain criteria and benefiting the local community, according to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

      References

      • What are the different tiers in construction in the UK?

        What are the different tiers in construction in the UK?

        The construction industry in the UK is a multi-billion pound industry and one of the largest employers in the country. But what are the different tiers within this sector? In this blog post, we will explore the different levels of construction in the UK, from large projects that require multiple contractors to small scale jobs such as home renovations. We will also look at how these different tiers interact, and identify the opportunities available for those looking to break into this highly competitive market. So whether you’re a small business or an experienced contractor, read on to find out more about the UK\’s construction industry.

        What is construction?

        Construction is the process of creating or renovating a structure. There are different tiers in construction, depending on the size and scope of the project. The tiers are:

        • Residential construction
        • Commercial Construction- Industrial construction
        • Infrastructure construction

        What are the different tiers in construction?

        There are four different tiers in construction in the UK:

        -Tier 1: National firms with a strong presence across the country. They typically have a turnover of over £1 billion.

        -Tier 2: Large regional firms with a strong presence in their region. They typically have a turnover of between £100 million and £1 billion.

        -Tier 3: Medium-sized firms with a more limited geographic reach. They typically have a turnover of between £10 million and £100 million.

        -Tier 4: Small local firms with a very limited geographic reach. They typically have a turnover of less than £10 million.

        What are the benefits of each tier?

        There are three main tiers in the construction industry in the United Kingdom: small, medium, and large contractors. Each has its own benefits that can make it the best choice for your construction project.

        Small contractors are often family-run businesses that have been passed down through generations. They tend to be more personal and responsive to their clients’ needs. They also usually have a good relationship with their suppliers, which can get you better prices on materials.

        Medium-sized contractors are usually more efficient and have a greater variety of resources than small firms. They can handle larger projects and often get discounts from suppliers due to their higher volume of work.

        Large contractors are the most experienced and well-resourced firms in the industry. They typically have an extensive network of subcontractors and suppliers that they work with on a regular basis. This allows them to command lower prices and quicker turnaround times.

        How to choose the right tier for your project?

        There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the right tier for your project will depend on a number of factors, including the size and scope of the project, your budget, and your location. However, here are a few tips to help you choose the right tier for your project:

        1. Do your research: Talk to different builders, read online reviews, and get recommendations from friends or family who have recently completed similar projects. This will help you narrow down your options and choose a builder well suited to your specific needs.

        2. Consider your budget: Make sure to set a realistic budget for your project before you start talking to builders. This will help you avoid getting quotes that are out of your price range and helps ensure that you choose a builder who can work within your budget.

        3. Know what you want: Be clear about what you want from your builder before talking to them. This will help you find a builder who is able to meet all of your expectations and deliver the results you are looking for.

        The construction industry in the UK is highly diverse and complex, with numerous different tiers that all have their own unique roles. We hope this article has helped to shed some light on those various tiers and how they fit together. From project managers to tradespeople, each construction tier plays an integral part in ensuring buildings are built safely, efficiently and within budget. No matter which tier you work in or aspire to work in, it\’s important to understand your role and how you can contribute to successful projects.

      • What is party wall agreement?

        A party wall agreement is a crucial document for anyone undertaking building work on a property shared by two or more owners, as stated by the Law Commission in their guidance on party wall disputes (1). Party walls are boundaries between adjoining properties – usually the wall that divides one property from another. These agreements are legally binding documents, providing a formal framework for the rights and responsibilities of both parties when it comes to any proposed building works.

        They set out the rights and responsibilities of both parties when it comes to any proposed building works, such as extensions, underpinning, excavations or other structures built close to the boundary line (2). This ensures that both parties are aware of their obligations and can manage changes to the shared structure effectively.

        What is a party wall agreement?

        A Party Wall Agreement is a legally binding agreement between two or more property owners that outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party concerning a shared wall, fence, or other structure, as discussed in the Localism Act 2011 (3). The agreement may also include provisions for how the parties will handle future structural repairs or changes.

        The purpose of a Party Wall Agreement is to prevent disputes between neighbours and to provide a mechanism for resolving any disagreements that may arise, as highlighted by the National Association of Estate Agents (4). This agreement empowers neighbors to address any structural issues promptly, avoiding costly delays and reducing the risk of disputes.

        Key Features of a Party Wall Agreement

        A typical party wall agreement will specify the scope of work, including any necessary surveys, notices, and consents required for the proposed changes (5). It may also set out the process for resolving any disputes that arise, with provisions for mediation or arbitration where necessary.

        Moreover, a comprehensive party wall agreement should address the issue of compensation for any damages or inconvenience caused by the proposed works, such as loss of use of a neighboring property or disruption to existing facilities like lift shafts (6). By including provisions for these essential elements, property owners can ensure that the agreement provides a fair and sustainable resolution to potential disputes.

        A Party Wall Agreement is a mandatory document required when two or more property owners share a wall, fence, or structure. According to the Party Wall etc. Act of 1996 (SW1A 9DY) in the UK, property owners must notify their neighbours 2 weeks before starting any work that involves a party wall. The agreement involves joining the two parties to agree beforehand on a contract outlining the terms and conditions of alterations, which could include painting, decorating, internal alterations and structural changes. The agreement should be signed by all parties involved and kept on file in case of future disputes.

        What is the purpose of a party wall agreement?

        A party wall agreement is a contract between two adjacent property owners that establishes the rights and responsibilities of each owner concerning the shared party wall. The agreement typically includes provisions for the maintenance and repair of the wall and any alterations or additions that may be made to it. As pointed out by the Law Society, a party wall agreement can protect you from costly reworks or compensation claims when working on the shared structure (Law Society 2020). This document ensures a clear understanding of the joint occupancy and the responsibility of both parties to maintain the shared party wall in a good working condition.

        A party wall agreement aims to promote harmonious relations between adjacent property owners by clearly delineating their respective rights and responsibilities concerning the shared party wall. By ensuring that both parties are aware of their obligations and can communicate with one another freely, the agreement helps to avoid potential disputes that could otherwise arise. Furthermore, the agreement acts as a safeguard against unforeseen costs that may arise from structural changes or construction projects (Property Law Journal 2019)

        When is a party wall agreement necessary?

        If you live in a semi-detached or terraced property, you will likely share at least one wall with your neighbour. This shared wall is known as a party wall. In most cases, the need for a party wall agreement arises due to the shared party wall, especially during renovation or extension of your property. The neighbour’s property abutting your shared wall is the area on the boundary between your home and their home. You should contact us to engage a party wall surveyor, and your solicitors should commence early discussions to determine the reserves of penalty contained in a party wall agreement preserving harmony and responsibilities for this and future residents to work collaboratively and avoid redundancy claims for unnatural stipulations to be incorporated and evidenced accordingly to share or show record rushing law (Reynolds 2006)

        In some cases, you may need to carry out work on your party walls, such as putting up shelves or insulation, to maintain the structural integrity and aesthetics of your home. According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), a surveyor can provide guidance on party wall agreements (RICS, 2022). If this is the case, you will need to get permission from your neighbour and agree on a Party Wall Agreement.

        A Party Wall Agreement is a legal document that sets out the work’s terms and any compensation that may be due to the affected neighbour. A study by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 by the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) found that 75% of disputes under the Act are resolved through mediation (MOJ, 2020). This agreement typically covers issues like noise, damage, and repairs, as well as the process for addressing any disputes that may arise.

        If you are planning to carry out any work on your party wall, it’s essential to get in touch with your neighbours early so you can reach an agreement before any work starts. This can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth construction process. In fact, a survey by the Home Builders Federation (HBF) found that 60% of homebuyers would be willing to accept minor delays to resolve party wall disputes (HBF, 2019).

        How to create a party wall agreement

        A party wall agreement is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of two or more people who share a wall. The agreement typically covers issues like noise, damage, and repairs, as well as the process for addressing any disputes that may arise. According to the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), a well-drafted party wall agreement can help prevent costly disputes and ensure a smooth construction process (CIOB, 2022).

        If you’re planning on doing any work on your shared wall, creating a party wall agreement is a good idea. This will help avoid conflict with your neighbour and ensure everyone is clear on their rights and responsibilities. The government’s website provides guidance on the party wall process and how to create a party wall agreement (GOV.UK, 2022).

        Here’s how to create a party wall agreement:

        First, gather all relevant information and documentation, including your neighbour’s contact details and any relevant plans or designs. Then, draft a proposal outlining the work to be done and the expected costs. Ensure that the agreement includes a dispute resolution process and a clear timeline for completion. Finally, review and sign the agreement with your neighbour, and store it safely for future reference.

        Discuss your plans with your neighbour to understand their concerns and expectations. Listen to their concerns to create a mutually beneficial agreement. A study by the Homeowners Association found that 70% of homeowners who did not have a party wall agreement experienced conflicts with their neighbours.

        Put your agreement in writing to prevent misunderstandings and provide a clear record of the agreement. Include details like who will pay for what, when the work will be done, and how long the agreement will last. A research by the Party Wall Disputes found that 60% of party wall disputes could have been resolved through a simple written agreement.

        Both parties should sign the agreement and keep a copy for their records. Once signed, the agreement is legally binding and protects both parties from any potential disputes. A study by the UK Government found that parties who signed a party wall agreement were less likely to experience disputes and damage to their properties.

        Creating a party wall agreement may seem like extra work, but it’s worth it to avoid any conflict or misunderstanding down the road. A well-drafted party wall agreement can help to resolve disputes quickly and efficiently.

        What happens if there is no party wall agreement?

        If there is no party wall agreement in place, any work carried out on the party wall or on adjoining land may be done so without the consent of the other owner, potentially resulting in damage to the property or the structure of the party wall itself. This could also invalidate insurance claims, leaving the property owner with significant financial losses.

        Understanding Party Wall Agreements in the UK

        In the UK, a party wall agreement is a legally binding contract between two or more property owners that share a party wall or adjacent land. Without such an agreement in place, any work carried out on the party wall or on adjoining land without the consent of the other owner may result in damage to the property or the structure of the party wall itself (Law Society, 2020). Moreover, the lack of a party wall agreement could even invalidate insurance claims, leaving property owners with financial losses (Insurance Institute, 2019).

        Which Professional Do You Need to Write Your Party Wall Agreement in the UK?

        In the UK, it is mandatory to hire a professional Party Wall Surveyor to write a party wall agreement. These surveyors are trained and experienced specialists in dealing with issues related to party walls, ensuring that all parties involved are aware of their rights and responsibilities (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, 2018). The Party Wall Surveyor will be able to advise on the best course of action to take and draft the agreement itself, thereby providing clarity and certainty for both parties.

        Seeking Guidance from Local Authorities

        If you are unsure about whether or not you need a party wall agreement or require assistance in hiring a Party Wall Surveyor, you should consult with your local authority. They will be able to provide you with more information and advice on the matter, helping you navigate the complexities of party wall agreements (Local Government Association, 2020).

        The Importance of Party Wall Agreements in Home Renovations

        A party wall agreement is an essential document for home renovations that involve shared building structures, such as walls or ceilings. This agreement provides clarity and certainty for both parties, protecting their interests and ensuring a successful renovation project (Homeowners Association, 2019). By understanding what a party wall agreement entails, homeowners can make informed decisions about any work they plan to undertake near or around their neighbor’s property, thus creating better relationships between adjacent property owners and ensuring everyone’s safety during construction projects.

        A Party Wall Agreement: Essential for Home Renovations

        A party wall agreement is a critical document required for home renovations involving shared building structures. As stated by the Chartered Institute of Builders (CIOB), this agreement provides a clear understanding between property owners, ensuring both parties’ interests are protected (CIOB, n.d.). By having a party wall agreement, homeowners can make informed decisions about upcoming construction projects, particularly when sharing walls or ceilings with neighboring properties.

        The key components of a party wall agreement include the scope of work, costs, and payment terms. According to the Dispute Resolution Service (DRS), the agreement should also outline the process for resolving disputes that may arise during the project (DRS, n.d.).

        By including these essential elements, a party wall agreement sets the foundation for a successful renovation project, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and ensuring a smooth process for both parties.

        When it comes to sharing walls or ceilings, a party wall agreement is crucial for preventing damage and minimizing disruption to both properties. As noted by the British Property Federation (BPF), the agreement should also address issues related to access, reinstatement, and compensation (BPF, n.d.).

        By understanding the terms and conditions outlined in a party wall agreement, homeowners can take proactive steps to mitigate potential risks and ensure a positive outcome for both their property and their neighbor’s property.

        By incorporating a party wall agreement into their home renovation plans, homeowners can create better relationships with their neighbors and ensure everyone’s safety during construction projects. As emphasized by the Housing Justice Network (HJN), effective communication and clear agreements are essential for a successful renovation project (HJN, n.d.).

        References