Frequently Asked Questions

High-Risk Buildings (HRB) & the Building Safety Act

How do I know if my building is classed as a High-Risk Building?

Determining HRB status requires an assessment of the building’s height, residential use, and the nature of the proposed works. This is not always obvious at the outset, particularly for refurbishment projects within existing blocks.

In locations such as Mayfair and Knightsbridge, where many buildings pre-date modern regulations, HRB status often becomes clear only once fire strategy, structure, and escape arrangements are reviewed together.

We typically confirm HRB status at feasibility stage to avoid costly redesign later, drawing on experience from live central London projects. Further guidance is available via our HRB services.

Official guidance is also published by the Building Safety Regulator.

Do refurbishment works within mansion blocks fall under HRB rules?

Yes, refurbishment works within mansion blocks frequently fall within HRB scope, even where the work is limited to individual apartments. Alterations to layouts, fire doors, compartmentation, or services can have building-wide safety implications.

This is especially common in dense urban settings such as Chelsea and Knightsbridge, where older residential buildings rely on shared fire strategies and historic construction methods.

We regularly advise on HRB refurbishments and Gateway 2 submissions for such projects. A detailed case study is explored in Navigating Gateway 2 in Knightsbridge.

What is the Building Safety Act and why was it introduced?

The Building Safety Act was introduced to reform how higher-risk residential buildings are designed, constructed, and managed, placing greater emphasis on accountability, competence, and documented compliance.

For projects in central London — particularly in areas such as Mayfair and Knightsbridge — the Act represents a fundamental shift away from retrospective approval towards upfront regulatory scrutiny.

We help clients interpret and apply the Act practically through our Building Safety Act consultancy and specialist HRB advisory services.

Primary legislation is published on legislation.gov.uk.

What is Gateway 2 and when does it apply?

Gateway 2 is the statutory approval stage that must be passed before construction begins on a High-Risk Building. It requires the design team to demonstrate that the proposed works fully comply with Building Regulations, with a strong focus on fire and life safety.

Gateway 2 is particularly critical for HRB projects in areas such as Knightsbridge and Chelsea, where complex building forms and historic fabric increase regulatory scrutiny.

We support Gateway 2 submissions by coordinating drawings, narratives, and compliance documentation through our High Risk Buildings service.

Gateway processes are overseen by the Building Safety Regulator.

Can Gateway 2 approval delay construction programmes?

Yes. Gateway 2 can significantly delay construction if information is incomplete, poorly coordinated, or inconsistent across disciplines. Unlike traditional Building Control routes, approvals cannot be worked through retrospectively.

This risk is most acute on HRB refurbishments in central London, where existing conditions, heritage constraints, and shared building systems must be carefully addressed.

Our approach focuses on early coordination to minimise validation delays, as demonstrated in our article Navigating Gateway 2 in Knightsbridge.

What documents are typically required for a Gateway 2 submission?

Gateway 2 submissions typically require a coordinated package of drawings, fire strategy information, and clear narratives demonstrating compliance with Building Regulations.

For HRB projects in Mayfair and Chelsea, this often involves careful integration of architectural, structural, and fire engineering inputs to reflect complex existing conditions.

We assist in structuring this information through our HRB advisory service and Building Regulations support.

What is a Fire & Emergency File (FEF)?

The Fire & Emergency File (FEF) is a structured record containing safety-critical information about a building, intended to support safe occupation, management, and future works.

For HRBs in central London, the FEF is particularly important where buildings have multiple stakeholders, managing agents, and phased refurbishment histories.

We advise on FEF preparation as part of our High Risk Buildings and Building Safety Act consultancy services.

Do HRB rules apply only to new-build projects?

No. HRB rules apply equally to certain refurbishment and alteration works, particularly where fire safety, structure, or means of escape are affected.

This is a common issue in Knightsbridge and Chelsea mansion blocks, where internal reconfigurations can unintentionally compromise building-wide safety measures.

We routinely advise on refurbishment-led HRB compliance through our HRB services.

What are the most common causes of Gateway 2 rejection?

The most common causes include uncoordinated drawings, unclear compliance narratives, and assumptions that Building Control queries can be resolved during construction.

In HRB contexts, particularly within historic central London buildings, regulators expect clarity and completeness before approval is granted.

Our experience coordinating HRB submissions is detailed in Navigating Gateway 2 in Knightsbridge.

What role does the architect play in HRB compliance?

The architect plays a central coordinating role, ensuring that design intent, regulatory compliance, and technical documentation align across the project team.

On HRB projects in areas such as Mayfair and Knightsbridge, this coordination role is critical to managing risk and avoiding regulatory delay.

Our HRB work is supported by our Building Regulations and specialist advisory services.

Is HRB compliance only about fire safety?

No. While fire safety is central, HRB compliance also covers structure, means of escape, smoke control, and the overall robustness of the building.

This holistic approach is particularly relevant in complex central London refurbishments, where multiple building systems interact.

We address these issues through coordinated design and regulatory strategy via our High Risk Buildings service.

When should HRB advice be sought on a project?

HRB advice should be sought as early as possible, ideally at feasibility stage, to confirm classification and regulatory route.

This early input is especially valuable for projects in Knightsbridge and Chelsea, where existing buildings present heightened compliance risks.

We provide early-stage HRB guidance through our HRB services.

Can HRB rules affect project cost and programme?

Yes. HRB compliance can influence both cost and programme by requiring additional coordination, documentation, and upfront approval.

However, early compliance planning often reduces risk and avoids costly redesign later, particularly in complex London refurbishments.

Our approach is outlined in our Building Safety Act consultancy.

What is the role of the Building Safety Regulator?

The Building Safety Regulator oversees HRB compliance, including Gateway approvals and ongoing safety standards.

For HRB projects in central London, the Regulator replaces traditional Building Control routes at key stages.

Official information is available via the Health and Safety Executive.

Can HRB compliance requirements change during a project?

Yes. Changes in scope, layout, or fire strategy can trigger additional regulatory review, which must be carefully managed.

This is particularly relevant for phased refurbishments in occupied central London buildings.

We manage change control as part of our HRB advisory work.

Do HRB projects still require Building Regulations drawings?

Yes. HRB projects rely heavily on robust Building Regulations drawings to demonstrate compliance at Gateway 2.

In complex central London buildings, these drawings form the backbone of regulatory submissions.

We produce coordinated technical packages through our Building Regulations service.

Can an architect act as Principal Designer on HRB projects?

Yes, provided they have the appropriate competence and experience. On HRB projects, the Principal Designer role is critical to managing design-stage safety risk.

We frequently act in this role on complex refurbishments in Knightsbridge and Mayfair.

Further explanation is provided in The role of the Principal Designer.

What are the risks of proceeding without HRB advice?

Proceeding without HRB advice can lead to regulatory refusal, construction delays, and increased liability.

This risk is heightened in older central London buildings where safety systems are interdependent.

We mitigate this risk through early-stage advisory via our High Risk Buildings service.

How do HRB rules affect occupied buildings?

HRB works within occupied buildings require particular care to manage fire safety, access, and resident communication.

This is common in Chelsea and Knightsbridge mansion blocks, where works are often phased.

We advise on safe delivery strategies as part of our HRB consultancy.

Can you advise developers as well as private clients on HRB projects?

Yes. We advise developers, managing agents, and private clients on HRB compliance across central London.

Our experience spans feasibility, Gateway submissions, and ongoing regulatory support via our High Risk Buildings and Building Safety Act consultancy services.

Design, Building Regulations, Cost & Project Delivery

What drawings do I actually need to build an extension?

To build an extension properly, planning drawings alone are not sufficient. While planning drawings demonstrate scale, appearance, and compliance with planning policy, they are not intended to resolve construction detail or Building Regulations compliance.

For residential projects in Harrow and across North West London, a separate set of Building Regulations drawings is typically required. These drawings address structure, insulation, fire safety, drainage, and technical coordination, providing builders with clear, buildable information.

As an ARB-registered practice working to RIBA standards, we prepare coordinated technical information through our Building Regulations service, supported by our wider guidance in the Folly Files.

Can I build from planning drawings only?

In most cases, building from planning drawings alone leads to uncertainty, variations, and cost overruns. Planning drawings are intentionally simplified and do not resolve the technical decisions required on site.

For typical house extensions in Harrow, builders rely on Building Regulations drawings to understand how the design is intended to be constructed and to demonstrate compliance to Building Control.

We regularly explain this distinction to homeowners through our Drawings and Building Regulations services, with further explanation available in our Folly Files articles.

What is the architectural design process for a home extension?

The architectural design process typically moves from initial concept, through planning approval, technical design, and into construction support. Each stage builds on the last, reducing uncertainty and improving outcomes.

For homeowners in Harrow and surrounding boroughs, following a structured RIBA Plan of Work approach helps ensure that decisions are made at the right time, rather than being forced on site.

We outline this process clearly in our article What is the ‘Design Process’ and why is it important? and apply it across our work as ARB-registered architects.

How much does a typical house extension cost?

Extension costs vary depending on size, complexity, structural intervention, and specification. For projects in Harrow and North West London, costs are also influenced by access, ground conditions, and build quality expectations.

Rather than relying on generic averages, we encourage clients to understand cost drivers early, allowing design decisions to align with budget.

We explore this in more detail in our Folly Files article How much does a house extension cost?, supported by early-stage design advice through our Architectural Services.

At what stage should I appoint an architect?

An architect is most effective when appointed early, ideally before design decisions become fixed or assumptions are made about what is possible. Early involvement allows constraints to be identified before they become costly problems.

For homeowners searching for Architects in Harrow, early advice can help establish whether planning permission is required, what scale of development is realistic, and how Building Regulations may influence design.

As RIBA-aligned, ARB-registered architects, we prioritise early clarity rather than reactive redesign.

What is the difference between planning permission and Building Regulations?

Planning permission considers how a proposal affects neighbours, streetscape, and local policy, while Building Regulations focus on safety, energy efficiency, and construction standards.

Both approvals are usually required for residential extensions in Harrow, but they assess fundamentally different aspects of a project.

We address both processes through separate but coordinated services: Planning Consultancy and Building Regulations, ensuring consistency between stages.

Do you help choose and assess builders?

Yes. Choosing the right builder is one of the most important decisions on a residential project, and cost alone is rarely the best indicator of suitability.

For projects in Harrow and North West London, we help clients assess builder experience, scope coverage, and assumptions, reducing the risk of disputes during construction.

Our approach is outlined in the article How to find a good builder, and supported through our Project Management service.

Should I use a building contract for a home extension?

Yes. A written contract helps clarify scope, payment stages, responsibilities, and procedures for change. This is particularly important once works move beyond minor alterations.

For residential projects in Harrow, a suitable domestic building contract can significantly reduce risk for both homeowner and builder.

We advise on appropriate contract routes through our Contracts service, informed by RIBA best practice guidance.

What happens if changes are made during construction?

Changes during construction are common, but unmanaged changes can quickly affect cost, programme, and compliance. Clear documentation and approval processes are essential.

For projects in North West London, we help manage design changes by assessing implications before instructions are issued on site.

This structured approach is part of our Project Management and Building Regulations support.

Do architects stay involved once work starts on site?

Architect involvement during construction varies depending on appointment, but continued input can significantly improve build quality and problem resolution.

On residential projects in Harrow, this often includes responding to site queries, reviewing workmanship, and helping interpret drawings as construction progresses.

We offer construction-stage support through our Project Management service, consistent with RIBA Plan of Work stages.

How long does a typical house extension take to design and build?

Timescales vary, but a typical residential extension often involves several months of design and approvals, followed by a construction period dependent on complexity.

In Harrow and surrounding areas, planning timescales, neighbour considerations, and contractor availability all influence programme.

We help clients understand realistic timelines through early-stage advice and guidance published in the Folly Files.

Why is using an ARB-registered architect important?

ARB registration confirms that an architect meets statutory standards of competence, professional conduct, and accountability. It also ensures the use of the protected title “architect” is legitimate.

For homeowners appointing architects in Harrow, ARB registration provides reassurance that services are delivered in accordance with recognised professional standards.

We operate as an ARB-registered practice and align our services with RIBA guidance throughout the design and delivery process.

Does following the RIBA Plan of Work add value to small projects?

Yes. While originally developed for larger projects, the RIBA Plan of Work provides a clear framework for decision-making on residential schemes.

For small extensions and refurbishments in Harrow, this structure helps ensure that design, cost, and compliance are addressed in the right sequence.

Our design methodology follows this approach, as outlined in our article on the design process.

Can good design reduce construction risk?

Yes. Clear, coordinated design information reduces ambiguity, site queries, and assumptions, all of which contribute to construction risk.

For residential projects in North West London, good design often leads to smoother builds and fewer disputes.

This principle underpins our work as architects and is explored throughout our Folly Files and technical services.

What is the biggest mistake homeowners make before building?

One of the most common mistakes is underestimating the importance of early technical design and regulatory coordination.

In Harrow and similar suburban contexts, skipping these steps often results in delays, additional cost, or compromised design outcomes.

Our experience advising homeowners is reflected across our Architectural Services and Folly Files guidance.

Can an architect help manage risk on small residential projects?

Yes. Even modest projects involve contractual, technical, and regulatory risk. An architect helps manage this risk through clear design, documentation, and advice.

For homeowners seeking architects in Harrow, this often provides reassurance throughout what can otherwise be a stressful process.

We support this role through our Architects in Harrow page and our wider professional services.

Planning Permission, Borough Policy & Local Knowledge

Do I need planning permission for a house extension?

Whether planning permission is required depends on the scale of the extension, the type of property, and any local planning restrictions that apply. Some extensions fall under permitted development, while others require a full householder planning application.

In boroughs such as Harrow, permitted development rights are common but not guaranteed, particularly where properties are in conservation areas or subject to local constraints.

We help homeowners assess their position early through our Planning Consultancy, supported by practical guidance in the Folly Files.

What is permitted development and when does it apply?

Permitted development allows certain types of extension and alteration to be carried out without applying for planning permission, provided strict limits and conditions are met.

In Harrow and neighbouring boroughs, permitted development commonly applies to rear extensions and loft conversions, but small changes in height, depth, or roof form can remove eligibility.

We explore these limits in detail in our article Permitted development for terraced house loft extensions, and advise on suitability through our planning services.

Can permitted development rights be removed?

Yes. Permitted development rights can be restricted or removed through Article 4 Directions, conservation area status, or previous planning conditions.

This is particularly relevant in parts of Harrow, Barnet, and Brent where local authorities seek greater control over residential alterations.

We identify these constraints early as part of our Planning Consultancy to avoid abortive design work.

How long does a typical planning application take?

A standard householder planning application is usually determined within eight weeks from validation, although this can extend if additional information is requested.

In practice, timelines in Harrow and surrounding boroughs can vary depending on workload, complexity, and consultation responses.

We help manage expectations and timescales through early advice and clear submissions, consistent with RIBA best practice.

Do neighbours have the right to block my planning application?

Neighbours can comment on planning applications, but objections alone do not determine the outcome. Decisions are made against planning policy and material considerations.

For residential projects in Harrow and North West London, common issues include overlooking, daylight, and scale.

We design proposals to address these concerns proactively, drawing on experience outlined across our Folly Files.

What drawings are required for a planning application?

Planning applications typically require location and site plans, existing and proposed floor plans, elevations, and sometimes sections or visual material.

In Harrow, accuracy and clarity are essential, as incomplete or inconsistent drawings can delay validation.

We prepare planning drawings through our Drawings service, coordinated with planning strategy.

Can I apply for planning permission myself?

Homeowners can submit planning applications themselves, but preparing compliant drawings and responding to planning queries requires technical understanding.

For many clients in Harrow, appointing an architect helps reduce risk and improve the quality of submissions.

As ARB-registered architects, we manage planning submissions in accordance with professional standards and local policy requirements.

What is a planning condition and why does it matter?

Planning conditions are requirements attached to an approval that must be satisfied before or during construction. They often relate to materials, details, or implementation.

In Harrow and neighbouring boroughs, conditions can significantly affect programme if not anticipated.

We advise on conditions as part of our Planning Consultancy and help discharge them where required.

What happens if planning permission is refused?

If an application is refused, options may include redesign, resubmission, or appeal, depending on the reasons for refusal.

For domestic projects in Harrow, refusals often relate to scale, impact on neighbours, or policy interpretation.

We help clients understand refusal reasons and next steps through clear professional advice.

What happens if planning permission is refused?

If an application is refused, options may include redesign, resubmission, or appeal, depending on the reasons for refusal.

For domestic projects in Harrow, refusals often relate to scale, impact on neighbours, or policy interpretation.

We help clients understand refusal reasons and next steps through clear professional advice.

Do conservation areas affect planning permission?

Yes. Conservation areas place greater emphasis on character, appearance, and heritage impact, often limiting what can be altered without permission.

Parts of Harrow, Barnet, and Brent contain designated conservation areas where even small changes may require consent.

We explore these issues in our article Building in a Conservation Area and through our planning services.

Is planning permission different for flats compared to houses?

Yes. Flats generally do not benefit from the same permitted development rights as single dwelling houses, meaning planning permission is often required.

This distinction is important for homeowners and landlords in Harrow converting or refurbishing flats.

We advise on the appropriate planning route as part of our Planning Consultancy.

Can I start work before planning permission is granted?

No. Starting work that requires planning permission before approval is granted can result in enforcement action and the need to undo completed works.

In Harrow, this risk is taken seriously, particularly where development affects neighbours or street character.

We help clients sequence design and approvals correctly to avoid enforcement risk.

What is a Lawful Development Certificate?

A Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) provides formal confirmation that proposed or completed works are lawful, often used where permitted development applies.

For homeowners in Harrow, an LDC can provide reassurance when selling or refinancing a property.

We advise on LDC applications as part of our Planning Consultancy.

How do planning policies differ between boroughs?

Each borough sets its own local planning policies, meaning requirements can vary significantly between Harrow, Barnet, Brent, and Hillingdon.

Understanding these differences is key to shaping proposals that align with local expectations.

We tailor planning strategies to borough-specific policy rather than relying on generic solutions.

Can an architect improve my chances of getting planning permission?

An architect cannot guarantee approval, but professional design and policy-aware submissions often improve outcomes.

For clients seeking Architects in Harrow, local knowledge and careful design are particularly valuable.

Our approach is grounded in RIBA guidance and ARB professional standards.

What is pre-application advice and is it worth it?

Pre-application advice involves seeking informal feedback from the local authority before submitting a full application.

In Harrow, this can be useful for more sensitive proposals, although it adds time and cost.

We help clients decide whether pre-application advice is appropriate based on project risk.

Can planning permission affect my construction cost?

Yes. Planning conditions, design constraints, and material requirements can all influence construction cost.

Early alignment between planning strategy and budget is particularly important for domestic projects in North West London.

We integrate planning and design advice to help manage this relationship.

What is the biggest planning mistake homeowners make?

One of the most common mistakes is assuming permitted development applies without checking the specific constraints of the property.

In Harrow, this often leads to redesign or enforcement issues later.

Our experience advising homeowners is reflected across our Folly Files.

Does planning permission expire?

Yes. Most planning permissions expire after three years if development has not lawfully commenced.

Understanding what constitutes a lawful start is important to avoid losing consent.

We advise on timing and compliance as part of our planning services.

Can changes be made after planning permission is granted?

Minor changes may be made through non-material or minor material amendment applications, depending on scale and impact.

For residential projects in Harrow, this route can be useful if handled correctly.

We advise on amendments where design evolution is required.

Do planning drawings need to match Building Regulations drawings?

Yes. While the level of detail differs, consistency between planning and technical drawings is important to avoid conflicts.

We coordinate both stages to ensure continuity from approval through to construction.

This approach aligns with RIBA Plan of Work principles.

How do you approach planning risk on residential projects?

We assess planning risk early by reviewing policy, site context, and precedent, then shape proposals accordingly.

For homeowners in Harrow and North West London, this reduces uncertainty and helps avoid abortive work.

Our planning approach is integrated into our wider architectural services.

CDM, Dutyholders & Professional Responsibility

What is CDM 2015 and why does it apply to my project?

CDM 2015 refers to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations, which set out legal duties to manage health and safety during construction projects. These regulations apply to almost all construction work, including domestic extensions and refurbishments.

For homeowners in Harrow and across North West London, CDM often comes as a surprise because the duties exist even on small projects. The intent is not bureaucracy, but ensuring that risks are considered and managed before work begins.

We explain and manage CDM duties through our CDM Regulations service, with practical guidance shared in the Folly Files.

Does CDM apply to domestic projects?

Yes. CDM applies to domestic projects, including house extensions, loft conversions, and refurbishments. While some duties are automatically transferred from the homeowner to the contractor, others must still be actively managed.

In practice, many domestic clients in Harrow are unaware of these responsibilities, which can create risk if roles are not clearly defined.

As ARB-registered architects, we help ensure CDM duties are addressed proportionately and clearly, in line with RIBA guidance.

Who is the Client under CDM on a house extension?

Under CDM, the Client is the person for whom the construction work is carried out. On a domestic project, this is usually the homeowner.

While certain duties transfer automatically, the Client remains responsible for ensuring that key roles are appointed and that arrangements are in place to manage safety.

We help clarify this role through early-stage advice and our CDM advisory service.

What does a Principal Designer do under CDM?

The Principal Designer is responsible for planning, managing, and coordinating health and safety during the design stage of a project.

On residential projects in Harrow, this often includes identifying design risks, coordinating consultants, and ensuring that information is passed to the contractor before work starts.

We explain this role in more detail in our article The role of the Principal Designer, and regularly act in this capacity where appropriate.

Can an architect act as Principal Designer?

Yes. Architects are often well placed to act as Principal Designer due to their central role in coordinating design information and managing risk.

For projects in Harrow and North West London, appointing an architect as Principal Designer can simplify communication and improve compliance.

This role is typically undertaken alongside our architectural services, in accordance with ARB competence requirements and RIBA guidance.

What happens if a Principal Designer is not appointed?

If a Principal Designer is not appointed where required, the Client may inadvertently retain responsibility for design-stage health and safety duties.

This situation is common on small residential projects and can expose homeowners to unnecessary risk.

We help avoid this by clearly setting out roles and responsibilities as part of our CDM Regulations service.

What is the difference between CDM and Building Regulations?

CDM focuses on managing health and safety risk during design and construction, while Building Regulations set minimum standards for safety, energy efficiency, and performance.

Both apply to residential projects in Harrow, but they address different aspects of risk.

We coordinate both requirements through our Building Regulations and CDM services to avoid gaps or overlap.

Does CDM still apply if my project is not notifiable?

Yes. CDM duties apply regardless of whether a project is notifiable to the Health and Safety Executive.

This is a common misunderstanding on domestic projects in North West London, where non-notifiable is often assumed to mean “no CDM”.

We address this misconception regularly through our professional guidance and Folly Files content.

What is a Construction Phase Plan?

The Construction Phase Plan is a document prepared by the Principal Contractor that sets out how health and safety will be managed during construction.

Even on small residential projects in Harrow, a proportionate Construction Phase Plan is still required.

We advise contractors and clients on what is appropriate through our CDM support.

Who is responsible for site safety under CDM?

Site safety is primarily the responsibility of the Principal Contractor, who manages the construction phase.

However, clear communication between Client, Principal Designer, and Contractor is essential to ensure risks identified during design are properly managed on site.

This coordination forms part of our wider project support services.

How does CDM interact with the Building Safety Act?

CDM and the Building Safety Act operate alongside each other, particularly on complex or higher-risk projects.

While CDM focuses on managing construction-phase risk, the Building Safety Act introduces enhanced regulatory oversight for certain buildings.

We manage this interface carefully on relevant projects through our High Risk Buildings and CDM services.

Do CDM duties end when construction finishes?

CDM and the Building Safety Act operate alongside each other, particularly on complex or higher-risk projects.

While CDM focuses on managing construction-phase risk, the Building Safety Act introduces enhanced regulatory oversight for certain buildings.

We manage this interface carefully on relevant projects through our High Risk Buildings and CDM services.

Why is CDM often misunderstood on residential projects?

CDM is often misunderstood because it is associated with large commercial sites, despite applying equally to domestic work.

In Harrow and similar suburban contexts, this leads to assumptions that can expose clients to risk.

Our role is to apply CDM proportionately, clearly, and without unnecessary complexity.

Can CDM requirements affect project cost?

Formal enforcement is relatively rare on domestic projects, but the legal duties still exist.

The greater risk is unmanaged safety leading to accidents, disputes, or liability issues.

We help clients avoid these risks through clear professional guidance.

Is CDM enforcement common on small projects?

When managed early and proportionately, CDM requirements typically have minimal cost impact.

Problems arise when duties are ignored or addressed late, leading to delays or redesign.

We help manage this risk through early advice and structured appointments.

How does ARB registration relate to CDM competence?

ARB registration confirms that architects meet statutory standards of competence, including professional conduct and accountability.

This provides reassurance to clients that CDM duties are being addressed by appropriately qualified professionals.

Our services are delivered in accordance with ARB requirements and RIBA best practice.

Do I need separate CDM advice if I already have an architect?

ARB registration confirms that architects meet statutory standards of competence, including professional conduct and accountability.

This provides reassurance to clients that CDM duties are being addressed by appropriately qualified professionals.

Our services are delivered in accordance with ARB requirements and RIBA best practice.

What is the biggest CDM risk for homeowners?

The biggest risk is assuming CDM does not apply, leading to unclear responsibility and unmanaged safety.

Clear appointments and early advice significantly reduce this risk.

Our experience addressing this issue is reflected across our Folly Files guidance.

Can CDM requirements change during a project?

Yes. Changes in scope, programme, or contractor arrangements can trigger changes in CDM responsibilities.

We help manage these changes through ongoing professional support where required.

How do you keep CDM proportionate on small projects?

Proportionality is key. CDM does not require excessive paperwork, but it does require clear thinking and communication.

For domestic projects in Harrow, this typically means simple, well-structured documentation and defined roles.

This approach aligns with RIBA guidance and underpins our CDM advice.

When should CDM advice be sought?

CDM advice should be sought at the outset of a project, ideally alongside initial design discussions.

Early advice helps ensure duties are properly managed from the start, rather than addressed reactively.

We provide early-stage CDM input through our CDM Regulations service.