Planning permissions are a legal requirement in building and construction. Besides planning permits, project owners must also get building regulations approval. The process of getting planning permission can vary depending on the size of the project.

Approval for planning permission can take four to eight weeks if everything goes well and the documents are correct and up-to-date. Having a planning consultant on your side will help you through the process of applying for one. In this guide, we look at what to consider when looking to hire planning consultant in Essex.

Understanding the importance of planning permissions

This is one of the crucial documents you need before breaking ground for a new construction project. The document ensures that the project complies with zoning regulations, environmental considerations, and community guidelines. However, you don’t need planning permission for an extension, temporary buildings, or even conversion projects covered under the permitted development clause.

The process starts with a site visit and soil test from the city inspector. Next, you must submit the planning permission drawings and supporting design documents. The documents will be reviewed by the local authority before giving the green light for the project to go ahead.

How to find the best planning consultant

A quick search on Google will help you find websites and social media pages of the best planning consultants in Essex. You may also read reviews and testimonials from past clients to gain more insight about the expert’s professionalism and work experience.

After you have identified potential hires, delve into their qualifications and experience. Planning consultants are experts in the intricacies of local planning regulations. Their experience will help ensure that your project aligns with local requirements, minimizing the risk of your application getting rejected.

While you are at it, ask for a quote before hiring the consultant. The cost of hiring a planning consultant will vary depending on the size of your project. Getting a quote will help you stay within your budget. Discuss fees, timelines, and any additional costs upfront to avoid surprises later in the planning permission application process. 

Recommendations from experts or other stakeholders in the construction industry can also come in handy. You can ask for recommendations from friends or family who have used the services of a planning consultant in Essex. Ensure that you ask about their professionalism, work ethic, and customer support before hiring them.

Also, ensure that the consultant is licensed by the relevant local authorities. Licensed pros are well-versed with the building and regulations laws in your city. They will also help you navigate any problems without breaking the law.

Next steps

Hiring a planning permission consultant is a wise choice during construction. These professionals bring a combination of expertise, experience, and strategic insight that can make a difference in your project.

The tips in this guide will help you find the best planning consultants in Essex. Experienced planning consultants also double up as project managers. This is a plus as their experience makes projects move smoothly.