YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
PROJECT & DESIGN PROCESS
What's included in my design package?
Our extension packages are designed to take your project from concept to construction.
Depending on the agreed scope, your package may include:
- Measured survey and 3D scan of the property
- Existing and proposed floor plans
- Planning drawings and submission
- Building Regulations drawings
- Structural design and calculations
- 3D visualisations
- Tender support and contractor introductions
We explain exactly what is included before work starts, so there are no surprises.
How many revisions are included?
We include up to three design revisions as standard.
The aim is to develop the design collaboratively while keeping the project moving efficiently. Most projects reach approval well within this allowance.
Can Studio Casa produce different design options for my extension?
Yes.
Many clients come to us unsure whether to prioritise kitchen space, daylight, cost efficiency or future resale value.
Where beneficial, we explore multiple layout options so you can compare and make decisions before committing to detailed drawings.
What information do I need to provide before work starts?
Usually very little.
To begin, we normally require:
- Property address
- Photos of existing conditions
- A brief explanation of your goals
- Inspiration images (optional)
- Existing drawings, if available
If drawings do not exist, we carry out a measured survey.
What is a measured survey and do I need one?
A measured survey records the existing property dimensions and creates the base drawings used for design.
For most extension projects, yes. This is essential to ensure accurate planning, structural coordination and construction drawings.
Will you visit my property and do I need to be present?
Yes. Most projects begin with a site visit and digital survey.
You do not always need to be present during the scan provided access is arranged, although we often recommend a short discussion beforehand to align expectations.
Who else may be involved in the project?
You do not need to appoint additional design professionals for your extension drawings besides Studio Casa.
We have a coordinated team of planning specialists, architectural designers and structural engineers, allowing us to deliver the full drawings package under one roof.
Depending on your project, additional parties may include:
- Building Control
- Party Wall Surveyor
- Energy assessor (SAP)
And of course, your builder during the construction stage.
PLANNING PERMISSION & APPROVALS
Do I need planning permission for my extension?
Maybe, but not always.
Many house extensions fall under Permitted Development Rights and may not require full planning permission.
If your proposal exceeds permitted development limits, is in a conservation area, affects neighbours or involves specific planning constraints, a planning application may be required.
We assess this before design work begins.
Can Studio Casa obtain planning permission for my project?
Yes.
We prepare the drawings, submit the application, coordinate with the council and respond to planning comments throughout the process.
While no consultant can guarantee approval, our approach focuses on realistic proposals and reducing avoidable planning risk.
How long does planning take?
Typical timelines are:
- Design and preparation: 2 to 4 weeks
- Pre-application (optional): around 4 to 8 weeks
- Householder planning application: typically 8 to 12 weeks
- Building Regulations package: 2 to 4 weeks
Complex projects may take longer depending on council workload and revisions.
When should I submit a pre-application?
A pre-application can be worthwhile when:
- The proposal pushes planning limits
- The site is in a conservation area
- There are neighbour sensitivities
- You want council feedback before committing fully
It reduces uncertainty but does not guarantee approval.
What happens if my planning application is refused?
Refusal does not necessarily mean the project is impossible.
We review the officer's comments and assess whether to:
- Amend and resubmit
- Appeal
- Change planning strategy
- Explore permitted development alternatives
Many successful projects go through refinement before approval.
BUILDING REGULATIONS & STRUCTURAL DESIGN
Should I hire an architect, engineer or both?
There is no legal requirement to appoint an architect for a domestic extension.
What matters is having coordinated design and technical information.
In many extension projects, however, a structural engineer is required.
This is especially common where structural walls are removed, steel beams are introduced, foundations are altered, loft conversions are involved or large openings and glazing are proposed.
Studio Casa combines architectural design, Building Regulations and structural design into one package, so you do not have to manage multiple professionals. Everything you need for your extension drawings in one place.
Will your drawings be enough for builders to price accurately and what happens if something unexpected is discovered?
Our construction packages are prepared to give builders clearer information for pricing and reduce variations because our design package includes planning drawings, Building Regulations and structural design.
That means your builder receives the drawings needed to price and build with greater certainty.
That said, hidden conditions can sometimes appear during construction, such as drainage issues, existing foundations or concealed structural conditions.
When that happens, we help review and resolve issues rather than leaving you to manage them alone.
What about structural engineering?
Most extensions require structural input.
Examples include:
- Steel beams
- Wall removals
- Foundation design
- Loft alterations
- Large openings and glazing
Structural calculations are prepared to support Building Regulations approval and construction.
At Studio Casa, we have an in-house structural engineering team, so you receive all the drawings you need, ready for construction.
COSTS, FEES & PAYMENTS
When do I pay and how do payments work?
Projects are usually split into stages.
Typically:
- Initial deposit to commence work
- Balance payments linked to project milestones
The exact schedule is explained in your quotation before appointment.
Is the price really fixed?
Yes. Our fees are fixed for the agreed scope.
If additional services or scope changes are requested later, we discuss and agree these separately before proceeding.
Do you only get paid if planning is approved?
No.
Our fees cover professional time, design work and submissions rather than planning outcomes.
However, our process focuses on identifying risks early and submitting proposals with the strongest chance of success.
Can Studio Casa help save money on the build?
Usually, yes.
Good design decisions early often reduce:
- Construction variations
- Over-specification
- Waste and rework
- Contractor uncertainty
Clear drawings and coordinated design tend to produce more competitive quotations.
BUILDERS & CONSTRUCTION SUPPORT
Do I pay for introductions to contractors?
No.
We do not charge for introductions.
Where appropriate, we can connect clients with vetted residential builders who are experienced in extension projects.
You remain free to work with any contractor you choose.
INSURANCE & PROFESSIONAL COVER
Is Studio Casa’s work insured?
Yes.
Studio Casa operates with Professional Indemnity insurance and appropriate business cover for the services we provide.
Details can be shared upon request.