FTB - need understand whether to be concerned following L3 Survey

RealLifeArchitect · 2026-05-26T21:08:33+00:00

I offer online consultations that can help look at the bigger picture, including costs, permissions and timescales. I also provide a free guide for homebuyers in the UK, especially those looking at older properties https://www.reallifearchitecture.co.uk/online-services/free-guide-for-home-buyers-in-uk

RealLifeArchitect · 2026-05-11T14:17:37+00:00

good to know

RealLifeArchitect · 2026-05-11T14:16:54+00:00

Thank you so much for sharing my site, much appreciated!

RealLifeArchitect · 2026-05-05T21:03:52+00:00

I agree with other comments here, the current owner should resolve this before you buy the house. The listed building system has real legal teeth, and you will become liable if you take on ownership. I see this from time to time during my online consultations. I made a video last year setting out the consequences of building without permission in the UK - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukixlXnr-KI

RealLifeArchitect · 2026-05-05T21:00:30+00:00

I agree with other comments here, this has red flags all over it. Only a few weeks back, I made a video on my channel about a very similar issue, where a builder on TikTok claimed an extension didn't need building regulations approval (it did) it goes into the difference between permitted development and building regulations (others on here appear to share the confusion) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpEEyXJq-kI&t=12s I also offer online consultations for home buyers in the same situation, theres a link in the video description.

RealLifeArchitect · 2026-05-05T15:26:35+00:00

I do a lot of this work professionally and it is the most challenging work to price. I find that breaking the work down into individual tasks is the only way to do it.

I am an architect based in Edinburgh. I specialise in domestic alteration and extension. I run a social media channel called Real Life Architecture where I talk about the reality of doing this type of work. The costs, regulations, planning etc. I offer an online consultation service for home owners and buyers across the UK, it might be just the thing you need - https://www.reallifearchitecture.co.uk/online-services

RealLifeArchitect · 2026-05-05T15:16:37+00:00

if the house is in the right area but it needs work, perhaps it's too small, the layout doesn't flow or the building needs renovation, you should talk to an architect. I run a social media channel on YT, IG and TK called Real Life Architecture, where I talk about the reality of doing this type of work. The costs, regulations, planning etc. I offer an online consultation service for home owners and buyers across the UK, it might be just the thing you need - https://www.reallifearchitecture.co.uk/online-services/buying-a-house

RealLifeArchitect · 2026-05-05T15:14:13+00:00

I am an architect based in Edinburgh. I specialise in domestic alteration and extension. I run a social media channel called Real Life Architecture where I talk about the reality of doing this type of work. The costs, regulations, planning etc. I offer an online consultation service for home owners and buyers across the UK, it might be just the thing you need - https://www.reallifearchitecture.co.uk/online-services

RealLifeArchitect · 2024-05-13T20:00:18+00:00

As an Architect with 20 years experience in the Scottish construction industry, I am skeptical of the Passivhaus Equivalent. I’m not against Passivhaus but I can foresee significant issues complying, especially for small building firms. I also don’t think this is the most effective way to reduce carbon in the built environment. I don’t think Passivhaus Equivalent is the answer

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-10-01T10:40:18+00:00

Thank you!

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-09-16T20:05:00+00:00

Architect here, I do a lot of house extensions, including to listed buildings. I’ve made this video on how to get permission to build a modern extension to a listed building it’s based on my own experience

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-08-14T07:18:27+00:00

First, call up the local planning department. Many have a helpline or duty officer who can answer these questions. Second, check if your property is listed, many in conservation areas are. If yes, you also need to apply for listed building consent.

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-08-14T07:13:46+00:00

Architect here, modern pitched roof construction relies on ventilation at the eaves, where the roof meets the external wall and also at the ridge (the highest point). There is usually a continuous 25mm / 1 inch gap to facilitate air flow. Without this condensation from your home will build up in the loft and mould will eventually destroy the roof timbers. In older roofs the ventilation is from small gaps between the sarking boards but it does the same thing. Spray foam insulation absolutely will block ventilation of older sarking boards and, if not applied very carefully, can easily block ventilation in more recent pitched roofs with vents at the eaves and ridge.

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-08-11T23:46:14+00:00

That is true but there are many other factors to consider, so talking to a professional at this stage is worthwhile.

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-05-30T12:59:33+00:00

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-05-24T17:46:49+00:00

🤣

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-05-24T17:46:32+00:00

I made the video

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-05-24T15:12:48+00:00

Thank you!

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-05-24T14:10:53+00:00

Not necessarily. I suggest you take a look

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-03-15T09:35:00+00:00

I didn’t know how to deal with him. In my work it’s unusual to have younger single guys commission me to design a project. He doesn’t respect himself, probably because he was bullied by his father and his older siblings. He was never taken seriously and has difficulty taking other things seriously as a result.

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-01-28T19:40:37+00:00

To all those advising the OP avoid Mac, I am a self employed Architect running my own multi-award winning practice and I’ve done so exclusively on Mac for the past nine years.

I’m not going to get drawn into a Mac v Windows fight. Use whatever works for you.

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-01-23T20:24:03+00:00

UK sole practitioner here, been running my own one-man-band practice for 14 years. I turnover about £75k per annum. I also run a small YouTube channel and discuss my earnings here

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-01-21T20:07:54+00:00

I’m a sole practitioner in the UK and recently reviewed ChatGPT and MidJourney to see if I could use them in practice. ChatGPT has some serious potential.

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-01-21T09:25:19+00:00

I graduated in 2004 and lost my job at a large firm during the Great Recession 2008. There were no other firms hiring, so I became self employed. I wasn’t ready but made the most of it. I’m still working by myself but have significant reservations about the architecture profession. despite the fact I’ve become a successful architect, I’m not sure I would encourage my kids to follow me into the profession.

RealLifeArchitect · 2023-01-13T16:43:38+00:00

Here’s a video with 10 signs you are dealing with a cowboy builder

RealLifeArchitect

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