Frequently asked questions
Your Building Questions, Answered
Whether you are looking into a loft conversion, home extension, garage conversion, annexe or outbuilding, it is natural to have questions. We have answered the most common ones below.
Do I need my own architectural drawings before contacting you?
Not necessarily. We can work from existing plans, but we also offer a design and build service where we partner with trusted architects to take your project from a rough idea to a fully approved technical drawing.
Do you handle planning permission and Building Regulations?
Yes. We can navigate the local council applications for you, making sure all structural work meets current UK Building Regulations and passes every necessary inspection.
How do you provide quotes, and are they fixed?
We provide comprehensive, itemised quotes rather than ballpark estimates. Once the scope of work is agreed and a contract is signed, that price is fixed. Any changes you request during the build are documented with a formal change order, so there are no surprises.
What are your payment terms?
We never ask for the full amount upfront. We typically take a deposit to secure the start date, followed by stage payments tied to completed milestones, such as groundworks finished or the roof watertight. You only pay for work that has actually been done.
Will I have a dedicated point of contact?
Yes. Every project is assigned a dedicated project manager who is your single point of contact for updates, questions and site visits.
How do you keep the site clean and safe?
We have a clean site policy. At the end of every working day the site is tidied and secured, and we use dust extraction and floor protection so the rest of your home stays liveable during the build.
Are you insured?
Yes. Forwell Construction carries comprehensive Public Liability and Employers’ Liability insurance, and we are happy to provide copies of our certificates on request.
Do you provide a warranty on your work?
Yes. All our structural work comes with a standard 10-year guarantee, and we provide a 12-month defects liability period for all finishes.
What areas do you cover?
We work across Essex and East London, including Chelmsford, Brentwood, Billericay, Basildon, Southend-on-Sea, Braintree, Epping, Loughton, Chigwell, Romford, Hornchurch, Upminster, Ilford, Barking, Dagenham, Woodford, Wanstead, Chingford and Walthamstow.
Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?
Most loft conversions fall under permitted development, so planning permission is often not required. It depends on the size of the extension, the roof alterations and whether the property is in a conservation area. We can advise and handle any planning applications if required.
How long does a loft conversion take?
Most loft conversions take 6 to 10 weeks to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Larger conversions such as dormers or hip-to-gable conversions may take slightly longer.
How much does a loft conversion cost in Essex?
The cost varies with the type and size of the project. As a general guide, loft conversions in Essex typically range from £35,000 to £70,000+, depending on structural requirements, finishes and the type of conversion.
Will I need to move out during the loft conversion?
In most cases you can stay living in your home while the loft conversion is carried out. Much of the work is completed from the roof before the new staircase is installed.
What is the minimum head height needed for a loft conversion?
Ideally your loft should have at least 2.2 metres of head height from floor to ridge to be suitable for conversion, although there are solutions for slightly lower roofs depending on the structure.
What building regulations apply to loft conversions?
All loft conversions must comply with UK Building Regulations, covering structural stability, fire safety, insulation, staircase design and ventilation, so the new space is safe and energy efficient.
Will a loft conversion add value to my home?
A well-designed loft conversion can increase a property’s value by 15 to 25%, depending on location and the type of space created, such as a bedroom with an ensuite.
Will my loft need structural strengthening?
Yes. Most loft conversions need new structural floor joists and steel beams to support the extra load and meet Building Regulations.
Do I need planning permission for a home extension?
Many home extensions can be built under permitted development rights, so planning permission may not be required if the extension stays within certain size and design limits. If your plans exceed those limits, a planning application will be needed, and we can advise and assist with the process.
How much does a home extension cost in Essex?
The cost depends on the size, design and specification. In the UK, extensions typically cost around £1,800 to £3,000 per m², so a 30m² extension could cost roughly £60,000 to £90,000+ depending on finishes and structural requirements.
How long does it take to build a home extension?
Most home extensions take 10 to 18 weeks to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the build, planning approvals and the weather.
Can I live in my home during the build?
In most cases, yes. Structural work is completed externally first, before we break through to the existing house.
How far can I extend without planning permission?
Under standard permitted development rules, single-storey rear extensions are typically limited to 3 to 4 metres beyond the original house, depending on the property type. Larger extensions may be possible through the prior approval process.
Do extensions need Building Regulations approval?
Yes. All home extensions must comply with UK Building Regulations, covering structural stability, insulation, fire safety, ventilation and drainage.
What factors affect the cost of a home extension?
The size and design of the extension, ground conditions and foundations, structural steel, the type and amount of glazing, and the level of interior finish such as flooring, plastering and kitchen installation.
Do I need planning permission for an annexe or outbuilding?
Many outbuildings can be built under permitted development rights if they stay within certain size and height limits. Larger annexes, or those intended for independent living, may need planning approval. We can advise and assist with the planning process.
How much does it cost to build an annexe or garden outbuilding?
It depends on the size, design and specification. As a rough guide, annexes and high-quality outbuildings typically cost £1,800 to £3,000 per m², depending on structural requirements, insulation, services and finishes.
How long does it take to build an annexe or outbuilding?
Most annexes and outbuildings take 8 to 16 weeks to complete, depending on the size of the structure, groundwork requirements and the complexity of the design.
Can an annexe have a kitchen and bathroom?
Yes. Many annexes include bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen facilities to create a fully functional living space. Planning permission may be required if the annexe is intended for independent living.
Do annexes and outbuildings need Building Regulations approval?
If the building includes plumbing, electrics or permanent accommodation, it will usually need to comply with UK Building Regulations, including structural stability, insulation, ventilation and fire safety.
Will building an annexe disrupt the main house?
Very little. Most annexes and outbuildings are built independently in the garden, so disruption to your home is minimal during construction.
Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion?
In most cases garage conversions fall under permitted development, so planning permission is not usually required. It can depend on the property, whether the conversion changes the outside appearance, and any planning restrictions. We can advise and assist if permission is needed.
How much does a garage conversion cost in Essex?
It depends on the size of the space and the level of finish. As a general guide, most garage conversions in Essex range from £10,000 to £30,000+, depending on structural changes, insulation, windows and interior finishes.
How long does a garage conversion take?
Most garage conversions take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the project and whether structural alterations or plumbing are needed.
Do garage conversions need Building Regulations approval?
Yes. Garage conversions must meet UK Building Regulations for insulation, ventilation, fire safety, structural stability and damp proofing so the space is suitable for living in.
Do garage conversions require structural changes?
Often, yes. This may include reinforcing floors, insulating walls, installing new windows, or replacing the garage door with brickwork and glazing.
Can I convert a detached garage?
Yes. Detached garages can be converted into home offices, studios, gyms or guest accommodation, although plumbing and electrics may need to be installed depending on the intended use.
Still have a question?
Call us on 020 3488 1988 or send us a message and we will be happy to help.