Getting advice before you build or submit a planning application

Your responsibilities

With all building work, the owner of the property (or land) is responsible for complying with the relevant planning rules and building regulations.

You can use the Planning Portal for guidance, but it is your responsibility to make sure:

• you understand when to submit a planning application
• you submit your application correctly and with the right documents

Professional bodies 

You may want to contact a professional before you start your planning application or submit a building control application. There are several professional bodies that help to regulate planning and building. 

These links are for information only. We do not endorse any of the companies or individuals.

Find an Architect

• The Architects Registration Board (ARB) 
• The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
• Local Architects Direct

Find a Surveyor

• The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE)
• Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors (FPWS) 

Search for a planner

• The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)

Find a Competent Person

Competent Person Schemes allow building professionals to self-certify that their work complies with Building Regulations. You can search the Competent Persons Register to find a tradesperson who is part of the scheme.

Find a Builder

It’s a good idea to get a recommendation or take up references before agreeing to any work under a suitable contract. 

You can read tips for choosing a builder from the National Federation of Builders.

You can:

• search for a builder in Kingston upon Thames with MyBuilder.com
• search for a builder from the Federation of Master Builders

If you’re not satisfied with the work of any professional involved in building, you can contact Citizens Advice by:

• calling their Consumer Helpline on 03454 040506, or 
• visiting the Citizens Advice website