Building Services

Building Plans for Local Authority Approval

-Planning Applications.
-Building Regulation Applications.
-Structural Calculations.
-Full Local Professional Service.
-Free Feasibility Study.

General – Jem’s experience and route to professional status is rather rare today in so much as he has worked at grass roots level in the construction industry on site in the early days followed by time spent working in Local Authorities throughout the central southern region as a Building Control Officer right at the heart of the statutory control of buildings. With time after spent as a consultant through into private practice Jem’s career path has given him the best of both worlds as he is not only able to detail schemes to meet statutory Planning and Building Regulation compliance but also be able to appreciate the Builder’s perspective and associated Client relationship having been at the “sharp end” of the industry himself for many years on site.
Jem often uses the phrase that “anyone can draw pretty pictures but being able to draw pretty pictures someone can actually build is what really counts “!!

Concept to Completion – Jem is able to guide Client’s with their building project from concept to completion from the free initial feasibility study through the statutory process of Planning and Building Regulations as necessary. Once all necessary consents have been obtained Jem is able to produce full specifications of work in preparation for seeking competitive quotations for the project from reputable local Builders.
Jem’s services extend to the assistance with Builder selection, the preparation of contract particulars and the certification and supervision of works on site on behalf of his client.

Fees – Jem’s fees for professional services are recognised as being the most competitive in the area and after the first free visit to advise his prospective Client on the feasibility of a scheme Jem will submit a fixed price fee proposal for professional services full detailing involvement at each stage with a realistic cost defined against stages from concept to completion. Jem will also provide fully detailed and fixed costs for any Local Authority fees payable by his prospective Client and for any specialist external consultancy services which may be required to bring the scheme to fruition.

Feasibilty Studies – Jem offers a free initial consultation and feasibility study in respect of any prospective scheme and at the first meeting will outline his thoughts to the enquirer and explain the application process and associated fees as applicable.

Measured Surveys – Jem will start any development project with a full measured survey of the premises using the latest laser measuring technology and the requisite survey drawings will be produced.

Planning Applications – Jem will produce fully detailed Planning Drawings along with any required supporting information such as design and access statements, biodiversity check lists and photographic surveys where required. Jem’s work includes the completion of the planning application forms and submission of the completed application to the Local Authority. As Client Agent Jem will track progress of the application and report to his Client throughout the process, attend meetings and keep abreast of any follow up correspondence. Jem will personally deliver the application decision to his Client and discuss the next stage and what needs to be done.

Building Regulation Applications – Once Planning has been finalised Jem will then prepare and complete drawings and specification to show full compliance with Building Regulations and allied legislation. Jem’s attention to detail as a former Building Control Officer is second to none and clearly annotated drawings are produced to show full statutory compliance. Jem is able to produce and requisite structural and thermal calculations to supplement the detailing as required by current legislation. Again, as Client Agent Jem will take care of the entire application process through to statutory consent.

Contract Administration & Supervision – Once all necessary statutory consents are in place Jem will then offer his Client a contract administration and supervision service if required and this will include:-

-    Preparation of a detailed specification.
-    Inviting competitive tenders from reputable local Building Contractors.
-    Appointing a Contractor and the completion of requisite contract formalities.
-    Supervision of works on site and the certification of Contractor accounts as necessary.
-    Completion inspection, snagging and sign-off as appropriate.

Condition Surveys & Reports – In addition to his development work Jem also regularly undertakes condition surveys of buildings for clients and prepares fully detailed reports of the same. These are reports on the structure and fabric of the building and Jem’s no nonsense and straight talking approach has endeared him to many as he identifies those issues which are most relevant as you would expect from a professional with such a background and level of experience.

Peace of mind – Jem recognises a building project is likely to be one of the most expensive financial commitments a person will ever make and undertakes his professional due with due reverence to this at all times. By charging realistic fees Jem lessens the impact somewhat but his input and knowledge has not only been proven to reduce associated building costs but also most importantly ensure this most valuable asset is built properly and with minimal inconvenience.