Straight Answers Before You Start
These are the questions homeowners ask us most often before a project begins. If yours is not here, call 01932 943095 and ask us directly.
Questions and answers
Getting Started
What kind of building work do you take on?
House extensions, loft conversions, garage and barn conversions, kitchen refurbishment, full renovations, structural alterations and new builds for private clients. Many projects combine several of these, such as a rear extension with a new kitchen and a loft conversion above.
Which areas do you cover?
We are based in Walton on Thames and work across Weybridge, Esher, Cobham, Oxshott, Claygate and Shepperton, as well as the villages in between. If you are a little further out in Surrey, call us and we will tell you whether we can help.
How do I get a quote?
Call or send us a message with a short description of what you want to do. We arrange a free visit to see the property, talk through the options with you and then send a written quotation.
Can you work from my architect's drawings?
Yes. If you already have drawings or planning permission, we quote and build from those. If you are starting from an idea, we can look at the house first and advise on what is practical before anything is drawn.
Questions and answers
Planning and Building Regulations
Do I need planning permission?
It depends on the work and the property. Many rear extensions, loft conversions and garage conversions fall under permitted development. Larger schemes, homes in conservation areas, listed buildings and properties with planning conditions usually need an application. We check this for you at the start.
What is the difference between planning permission and building regulations?
Planning permission is about whether you may build something: its size, appearance and effect on neighbours. Building regulations are about how it is built: structure, fire safety, insulation, drainage and electrics. Most projects need building regulations approval even when planning permission is not required.
What is the Party Wall Act and does it affect me?
If the work touches a wall you share with a neighbour, is built on the boundary, or involves digging foundations close to their house, the Party Wall Act applies and your neighbours must be given formal notice. Loft conversions in semi detached and terraced houses often fall under it.
Will I get paperwork when the job is finished?
Yes. Building control issues a completion certificate once the final inspection is passed, and electrical and gas work comes with its own certificates. Keep these safe, because a solicitor will ask for them when you sell the house.
Questions and answers
During the Build
Can we live in the house while you work?
Usually. Extensions and loft conversions are mostly built from the outside until the new space is opened into the house. We seal off the work area and agree in advance when water, power or the kitchen will be out of use.
Who will be in charge of my job?
You have one point of contact from start to finish, who coordinates every trade on site and keeps you informed about progress and upcoming decisions.
What happens if I want to change something part way through?
Tell us as early as you can. We explain what the change involves and how it affects the rest of the work, and agree it with you before anything is altered.
Do you tidy up at the end of each day?
Yes. The site is kept clean, secure and well managed throughout the build, and areas of the house outside the work zone are protected.
Still Have a Question?
Call us on 01932 943095 or send a message. We are happy to talk a project through before you commit to anything.
Free site visit and quote
Get In Touch
Call us, or tell us a little about what you are planning. We will arrange a convenient time to visit, listen to your ideas, talk through the options and follow up with a clear written quotation.
- Phone01932 943095/07990 868756
- Emailhello@fmtconstruction.co.uk
- AddressUnit 5 Field Common Farm, Field Common Lane, Walton on Thames, Surrey, KT12 3QJ
