We're building with PD, a H&L smart living package (previously lifestyle) due to start next year, and have a general question to see if anyone else has come across this issue...
I'm basically wanting to extend the double garage (5.7x6m), effectively adding on a 'workshop' for storage which will be offset back 1m from the face of the garage at a size of 2.5x3.m. Our colour appointment is next week, contract signing mid July, site start around March next year.
PD has turned around and said no, can't be done for the following reasons:
- The H&L package has been 'pre-approved' by town planning so structural changes cannot be made
- Building co-ord has ordered plans already
- Energy rating has been done (Don't know how this can be done now when the electrical has not been selected which can greatly influence the rating!)
Has anyone had this happen to them, or am i out of my depth here? It's not like i want this extension for free. If it can't fit on the land fair enough (there is room, just not sure if it will make the house occupy too much of the land), but otherwise, i don't see the big deal, more money for you (or is it too hard, cbf'd attitude)?
I'm just hoping fibs aren't being told, otherwise cancellation alarm bells are starting to ring.
I'm thinking they're telling fibs to avoid either a) doing some hard work or b) telling you "no" for much sillier reasons.
You might have to pay a fee to get drafting to update the file, that's quite possible, but the council approvals can't often be done without you selecting your facade colours. Plus they truly do not care about trivial things such as the size of your garage or internal rooms. As long as you comply with the planning guidelines permits aren't an issue.
Energy rating cannot be done yet unless you are going to be refused any choice of lighting. So I'm thinking no, again.
Sounds so much like my early dealings with the admin side of things.
There might be a very good reason why you can't have what you want, but it wasn't on the list you gave. I'd be reminding your SC and BC that you only have a small deposit at stake right now, and consider whether this is important enough to walk away. In my experience you're going to be hit with dozens of annoying issues with admin, so take your important stands early when you have less to lose.
HD