Dormer attic conversion

tom1ie

Hi all,

Ive been told by my Local Authority that I need planning permission if I’m putting in a dormer in the rear and front of my attic. Once they receive the application complete with drawings it’s roughly 3 months until final planning permission is granted- if it’s granted.

Who do I get to do up the drawing that go into the LA and how much am I looking at for that?

Also would whoever is doing the drawings (draftsman? Architect?) need to visit the house with the builder to decide on what’s getting built?

thanks.

T.

FJMC

You could speak to friends or family or colleagues who have had any work done in the past - to find out who they used and what their experience was - not just getting drawings done but the actual works as well.

Alternatively, you could speak to one of the professional bodies - like the RIAI for architects - who may be able to give you names of local architects in your area. You can than ask a number of them for a quote for the works.

That approach should also help you get a better understanding of what is involved and how to go about it.

Some builders may offer a design or drawing service as well but sometime it is better to separate the various roles and ensure they have a degree of independence. Ultimately, you want a design that gives you what you want and not what is simply the easiest solution for your builder.

Whoever does your drawings they will have to visit and do a survey of the property, take your brief (number of bedrooms, bathrooms, appearance, materials, etc.) then prepare drawings / designs for your approval - before then submitting them for planning and, if successful, preparing drawings for Building Regulations compliance and for a builder to tender from and then build from.

It can be a fairly straightforward and simple process if it is done well and goes well - but it can also get unnecessarily complicated and difficult if it goes wrong - and there are a few pitfalls where it can go wrong.

Don't forget you are the client - and you need to get what you are paying for - and the best design for you.

It is worthwhile reading a few bits online eg the RIAI website for some information on appointing an architect and being a client - even if you ultimately go down a different route.

F