Practical guidance for better building decisions.
Clear, experience-led advice on planning, architectural design, building regulations, structural engineering and party wall matters.
Structural Survey Before Buying a House: When Do You Need a Structural Engineer?
Buying an older property can be a great opportunity, but cracks and uneven floors may indicate structural issues. A structural survey helps identify potential problems before purchase and ensures an informed decision.
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Ground Investigation for House Extensions and New Builds: When Do You Need Soil Testing?
Ground investigation identifies soil conditions, groundwater levels, and potential risks before construction. It helps structural engineers design safe and suitable foundations for house extensions, reducing the risk of settlement, structural damage, and costly problems…
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Temporary Works for Structural Alterations: Propping, Stability & Construction Sequence
Temporary works, including propping, shoring and bracing, help maintain structural stability during building alterations. Proper design and construction sequencing ensure buildings remain safe until permanent supports are installed.
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Office to Hotel Conversion: Planning Permission, Change of Use & Building Regulations
Converting an office into a hotel requires planning approval, Building Regulations, fire safety, and structural upgrades. AC Design Solution has experience delivering such projects, including an 87-bedroom hotel conversion in Luton.
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Can You Add Another Storey to an Existing Building? Planning Permission, Prior Approval & Structural Design
Extending a building upward can create valuable additional space without increasing its footprint. Depending on the property type and proposed use, the project may qualify for permitted development with prior approval or require full…
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How to Discharge Planning Conditions Before Construction Starts
Planning permission does not always mean construction can begin immediately. Pre-commencement conditions may require additional information or approvals, and these conditions must be discharged before work can lawfully start.
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Can You Add Another Floor to an Existing Building? Planning, Structure & Building Regulations
Adding another floor can unlock valuable space without expanding a building’s footprint. But upward extensions involve more than just construction, from planning and structural capacity to access, fire safety and Building Regulations.
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Can You Build an Extension and Loft Conversion at the Same Time?
Can you combine a house extension and loft conversion into one project? Yes - and in many cases, designing both together can be more practical and cost-effective. However, combining the work also means planning…
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Loft Conversion Building Regulations in England: Structure, Fire Safety & Planning
Everything you need to know about loft conversion building regulations in 2026 — structural requirements, fire safety, planning rules and what drawings you need.
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Steel Connection Design UK: Types, Calculations and Practical Considerations
Steel connections are vital to the strength and stability of any steel structure. This guide covers common connection types, structural roles, fabrication methods, and key considerations to ensure safety, compliance, and performance in steel-framed…
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What Happens After Planning Permission Is Granted? From Approval to Construction
Planning permission is not permission to start building. This guide covers reading the decision notice, discharging pre-commencement conditions, moving from planning drawings to technical design, and the structural and Building Regulations work still to…
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Building Near Protected Trees: Planning Permission, TPOs and Foundation Design
A Tree Preservation Order does not stop you building. This guide covers root protection areas, what a planning application near protected trees needs, and how nearby trees change foundation depth and design.
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How Long Does Planning Permission Last in London? 2026 Guide for Homeowners
You have received planning permission for your extension, loft conversion or renovation, but construction is not ready to start.
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