What Happens After I Get My Planning Drawings?
For many homeowners and developers, receiving planning drawings is one of the most exciting stages of a project. It represents weeks (sometimes months) of collaboration, design decisions, and planning submissions finally coming together. But while planning drawings are an important milestone, they are not the end of the process. At Planning Design London, we often hear clients ask: “What happens next?”
The truth is that planning drawings are only the beginning of the journey from paper to construction. To help you feel prepared, here’s a clear step-by-step guide to what you can expect once your planning drawings are approved.
Review and Refine
The first thing we advise clients to do is review their drawings carefully. At this stage, your design concept has planning approval, but it’s still worth ensuring that every detail aligns with your vision. Are the room sizes correct? Does the layout reflect how you’ll live or work in the space? Are there finishes or materials you’d like to change?
This is also the point where we may introduce other specialists. Structural engineers, mechanical or electrical consultants, and surveyors may be required to check certain elements. Making refinements before moving forward avoids costly changes during construction.
Building Regulations and Technical Design
Planning drawings are often confused with Building Regulations drawings — but they are not the same thing. Planning drawings focus on what the building will look like and how it fits into its surroundings, whereas Building Regulations drawings contain the technical details that make the building safe, sustainable, and compliant.
After planning approval, we prepare the necessary technical drawings for submission to Building Control (or an Approved Inspector). These cover essential aspects such as structural stability, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, and accessibility. Depending on your project, we may also help you secure additional statutory consents, for example if your property is listed or located in a conservation area.
Tendering and Contractor Selection
Once the technical drawings are complete, you’ll be in a strong position to begin tendering. This means inviting contractors to provide quotations based on a clear set of specifications. A detailed tender pack ensures that all contractors are pricing on the same information, making it easier to compare quotes fairly.
At Planning Design London, we assist clients throughout this process. From preparing tender documents to shortlisting contractors and reviewing proposals, we help you find a builder who is not only cost-effective but also experienced and reliable.
Contracts and Scheduling
Choosing a builder is a big decision, and it’s important to formalise the agreement. A written contract should cover the scope of work, timescales, payment stages, and responsibilities. Having this in place provides peace of mind and protects both parties.
We also recommend agreeing on a realistic build schedule at this stage. This includes start and completion dates, key milestones, and how site access will be managed. You may also need to arrange matters such as party wall agreements, neighbour notifications, or additional insurance — all of which we can guide you through.
Construction Begins
With everything in place, the exciting part starts — construction. Your contractor will set up the site, order materials, and begin work according to the drawings and schedule. Building Control will inspect at several stages, such as foundations, structural work, insulation, and drainage, to ensure the build complies with regulations.
Throughout construction, we stay closely involved to monitor progress and address any issues that arise. Regular site visits and communication between client, architect, and builder keep the project on track.
Completion and Handover
When the building work is finished, a final inspection is carried out by Building Control. If everything is in order, a completion certificate is issued — a crucial document confirming your project complies with Building Regulations.
Most projects also include a snagging period, during which any small defects or adjustments are resolved by the contractor. Once this stage is complete, your building is ready to be used and enjoyed.
Why PDL
Why Working With Planning Design London Matters
Embarking on a project without professional support can be daunting. At Planning Design London, our role doesn’t stop once planning drawings are secured. We guide clients through every step of the journey, from technical compliance and tendering to construction monitoring and final handover.
Our expertise ensures your project runs smoothly, avoids unnecessary delays, and delivers the results you envisioned from the start. If you’re looking for architectural design support in your area, explore our Architectural Design services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do planning drawings mean I can start building?
No — you’ll still need Building Regulations approval and possibly other consents before work can begin.
How long does Building Regulations approval take?
It varies by project, but most applications are reviewed within 5–8 weeks.
Can Planning Design London help with contractor selection?
Yes — we guide clients through tendering and help appoint reliable builders.
