Planning, Building Regulations & Project Preparation

Many building projects involve more than the visible construction work. Before work begins, there may be questions around planning permission, permitted development, building regulations, drawings, structural requirements, drainage, access, foundations, sequencing and site safety.
MSBC Southwest supports clients by bringing practical construction awareness to the early stages of a project. We do not replace architects, planning consultants, structural engineers or building control, but we understand how their requirements can affect the work on site. This helps clients approach their project with a clearer view of what may be needed before construction begins.
Based in Banwell, we work with homeowners, property owners, contractors and small commercial clients across North Somerset and nearby Somerset, supporting projects that need to be properly prepared and practically delivered.
Unsure what stage your project is at? Tell us what you are planning, what information you already have, and where the property or site is located.
This page provides general guidance only. Planning and building regulation requirements vary depending on the property, location and scope of work. Clients should seek appropriate professional advice where required.
Planning and building regulations can affect:
- House extensions
- Private builds
- Renovations
- Structural alterations
- Drainage and groundwork-related works
- Commercial alterations
- Change-of-use projects
- Rural/outbuilding works
- Contractor/subcontract packages where compliance matters
We understand that building work involves more than turning up with tools:
- early practical advice
- awareness of permissions
- understanding of building control
- sequencing and site issues
- working with drawings, architects and consultants
- recognising when specialist input is needed
Some projects may involve:
- Planning permission
- Permitted development considerations
- Building regulations
- Structural calculations
- Drawings
- Drainage considerations
- Foundations
- Access and site constraints
- Health and safety requirements
- Sequencing of work
- Working with architects, planning consultants or structural engineers
