What are building regulations?

Building regulations are set by the government in England, and help ensure that new buildings, conversions, renovations and extensions are safe. There are detailed regulations that cover different topics including, but not limited to: structural integrity, fire protection, energy performance, accessibility, electrical and gas safety. The regulations include standards for drainage & sewage, ventilation, protection against the ingress of water and protection against contamination including methane and radon gas.

Not all property work requires a permit, however before any work that structurally changes or extends the building on your property; removes, changes or re-routes drains and pipes; or builds permanent structures within your property boundary, the proper permission will need to be sought. This is done via your Local Authority. If you already have a permit, we will need to see that before work can start; if you do not have one yet, or the project is a new idea, the need for a permit will be advised at your project consultation.

For minor works, permits can often be arranged in a few weeks, however for larger projects please be aware that it can take longer.

My building is Grade Listed; what permissions do I need?

The Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission lists buildings in England and Wales under three grades, with Grade I being the highest grade.
Grade I – buildings of exceptional interest.
Grade II* – particularly important buildings of more than special interest.
Grade II – buildings that are of special interest.
Most listed building owners are likely to live in a Grade II building as these make up 92% of all listed buildings.

A listing means there will be extra control over what changes can be made to a building’s interior and exterior. Owners will need to apply for Listed Building Consent for most types of work that affect the ‘special architectural or historic interest’ of their home.

For more details on applying for consent, please see Who Do I Contact? on Historic England website.

Will you undertake work out of hours or at weekends?

The short answer is, yes.
The long answer is that it depends very much upon what work needs doing, our non-work commitments, and why the project can’t be undertaken during normal working hours. For example, a night-worker may need us to start later or finish earlier in the day. We are happy to accommodate a client’s needs where we can.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes! 3cCarpentry & Construction are pleased to offer payment plans via Kanda™.
For further information, please contact us.

How long will my quote for work stay valid?

We are happy to honour a quote tendered by us, with no subsequent changes, for 30 days.
For time periods longer than that, we will need to re-quote. This is due to the changeable costs of materials.

I can’t be at home whilst work takes place, what will you do?

Not a problem!
We are happy to key-hold for your property, and will enter and leave the building within clearly agreed working hours. We always offer a receipt for keys given to us and will cover the costs of immediate replacement of lock/s should a key be lost.

Can I change my mind about parts of a project once started?

Yes, but only where the change is feasible under the scope of the project, and materials already purchased. We are always open to discussing things with our clients, and try our best to make the change for you. Please note, major changes may incur further costs.

Does your bespoke design service mean my project will be unique?

Yes! Our bespoke design service is highly tailored to each customer’s specific needs and wishes, no two projects are ever the same. You can be safe in the knowledge that your bespoke item or project is truly unique!