Industry Resources for Planning, Design and Construction
Understanding the organisations, regulations and planning policies that shape the UK construction industry is essential when designing or extending a home.
At Plan My House, our planning drawings and architectural services are created in accordance with current planning policy, building regulations and professional standards.
This page provides useful industry resources for homeowners, developers and self-builders who want to better understand the planning and building process.
UK Building Regulations
Building Regulations set the minimum standards for the design, construction and alteration of buildings in England and Wales. They ensure buildings are safe, energy efficient and accessible.
Building Regulations cover areas including:
-
Structural safety (Part A)
-
Fire safety (Part B)
-
Site preparation and contamination (Part C)
-
Ventilation (Part F)
-
Energy efficiency (Part L)
-
Accessibility (Part M)
Approved Documents provide guidance on how to meet these requirements.
These regulations apply to:
-
Home extensions
-
Loft conversions
-
New homes
-
Structural alterations
-
Many internal modifications
Understanding these requirements early helps ensure planning drawings and construction details are compliant.
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out the UK Government’s planning policies for England. It guides how local planning authorities assess planning applications and develop local planning policies.
The NPPF promotes sustainable development and helps balance housing delivery, environmental protection and community needs.
Key areas covered include:
-
Housing development and land supply
-
Green belt protection
-
Design quality and place-making
-
Climate change and sustainability
-
Heritage and environmental protection
Planning applications for extensions, new homes and developments are assessed within this framework alongside local planning policies.
Resource: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-planning-policy-framework--2
Future Homes Standard
The Future Homes Standard is part of the UK Government’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions from new homes.
Expected to come into effect fully in 2025, the standard aims to ensure new homes produce 75–80% fewer carbon emissions compared with homes built under previous regulations.
This will influence:
-
Heating systems (heat pumps replacing gas boilers)
-
Insulation and thermal performance
-
Airtightness and ventilation
-
Renewable energy integration
The standard supports the UK’s long-term Net Zero carbon targets and will shape how new homes are designed moving forward.
Resource: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-future-homes-and-buildings-standards
Professional Bodies in Construction and Architecture
Professional organisations help maintain standards across the construction industry and support professionals working in architecture, design and construction management.
Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
The Chartered Institute of Building is a global professional body for construction management professionals.
CIOB promotes:
-
Professional competence
-
Ethical construction practice
-
Education and training within the construction industry
-
High standards in project management
Many construction professionals hold CIOB membership as a mark of credibility and expertise.
Website: https://www.ciob.org
Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT)
The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists represents professionals who specialise in the technical design and construction of buildings.
Architectural Technologists focus on ensuring that building designs are practical, compliant and efficient to construct.
CIAT promotes:
-
Technical excellence in building design
-
Professional standards in architectural technology
-
Education and professional development
Website: https://architecturaltechnology.com
National Federation of Self Builders (NFOSB)
The National Federation of Self Builders represents individuals building their own homes and promotes policies that support the self-build sector.
The organisation works to:
-
Improve access to land for self builders
-
Promote planning reforms that support custom build housing
-
Provide information and guidance for self builders
Self-build projects often require careful planning, design and compliance with planning policy and building regulations.
Website: https://www.nfosb.com
Additional Useful Planning and Construction Resources
​Planning Portal
The Planning Portal is the UK Government’s primary online resource for planning and building regulations.
It provides guidance on:
-
Planning permission
-
Permitted development rights
-
Building regulations applications
-
Common household projects
Website: https://www.planningportal.co.uk
Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
RIBA is the professional body for architects in the UK and promotes excellence in architectural design and professional practice.
Website: https://www.architecture.com
National House Building Council (NHBC)
NHBC provides warranties and standards for new homes and helps improve quality across the house building industry.
Website: https://www.nhbc.co.uk
Planning Drawings and Architectural Services
If you are planning a home extension, loft conversion or new build project, professional planning drawings are essential for securing planning permission and ensuring building regulation compliance.
​
At Plan My House, we provide:
-
Planning drawings for extensions and loft conversions
-
Planning application support
-
Architectural design services for homeowners and developers​
If you would like help preparing drawings for your project, please visit our Design Services page or contact our team at matt@planmyhouse.co.uk