Guidance

Starting a residential project can involve a range of considerations, from early design ideas and planning requirements to technical approvals and construction. The guidance below is intended to help you understand how these elements typically fit together and what to consider at each stage.

Each section provides clear, practical information to support informed decision-making before moving on to project-specific advice.

residential design feasibility and early project considerations

Design and feasibility

Early design decisions shape how a project develops. This guidance covers feasibility, constraints and common considerations when exploring options for a residential property. → More

→ Feasibility and early design
→ Understanding design constraints
→ When professional input is needed

residential property planning and permission considerations

Planning and consents

Planning requirements vary depending on the property and the type of work proposed. These pages explain when permission is required and how proposals are assessed. → More

→ Planning permission explained
→ Permitted development overview
→ Windows and planning considerations

building regulations and technical design for residential construction

Building regs and technical design

Building Regulations ensure work is safe and compliant. This section explains technical approval routes, drawings and how construction requirements are addressed. → More

→ Building Regulations explained
→ Full Plans vs Building Notice
→ Structural design and calculations

measured survey drawings and existing property information

Surveys and existing information

Accurate existing information forms the foundation of any project. This guidance explains why surveys matter and how missing information can affect progress. → More

→ Why measured surveys are important
→ Working with existing information
→ Avoiding assumptions and delays

party wall considerations between adjoining residential properties

Party wall and neighbours

Some building works affect shared walls or boundaries and are governed by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This section explains when the Act applies and how the process works. → More

→ Party Wall explained
→ Common Party Wall triggers
→ Timing and neighbour considerations

residential building project costs and construction timescales

Costs, timescales and finance

Understanding costs and timescales early helps set realistic expectations. These pages outline typical project stages and factors that influence budgets. → More

→ Typical residential project timelines
→ Understanding professional fees
→ Planning for costs and change

Start a project

If you’re ready to move from general guidance to project-specific advice, visit our Start a project page to choose the best way to get in touch.
Next steps → Start a project