❓ Your Construction Questions Answered
Building & Planning FAQ
Expert guidance on home extensions, building regulations, and renovations across Birmingham and the West Midlands.
What areas do you cover?
We primarily cover the wider West Midlands area. For larger commercial or luxury residential projects, we frequently operate across neighboring counties.
Do you handle planning permission applications?
Yes, absolutely. We offer a full concept-to-completion service. Our architectural team will draft the designs and submit the planning permission applications to the local council on your behalf, maximizing the likelihood of approval.
Are you fully insured and certified?
Yes. We are fully insured with comprehensive public liability and employer liability cover. Additionally, our teams hold certifications with the Federation of Master Builders, Gas Safe, REFCOM, and NICEIC to ensure all works are fully compliant and safe.
Do you provide a guarantee for your work?
We provide a standard 12-month workmanship guarantee on all finished projects to ensure any snagging is swiftly dealt with. Furthermore, all major works come with up to a 5-year structural guarantee for complete peace of mind.
How do I get a quote?
Simply head over to our Contact Us page, fill out the form, and a dedicated project manager will get back to you within 24 hours to arrange an initial consultation and site visit. We then provide a fully itemised, transparent quote.
Do you comply with all UK Building Regulations?
Yes. All our projects strictly adhere to the latest UK Building Regulations, including structural safety, fire protection, insulation, and accessibility standards. We also coordinate inspections where required to ensure full compliance and approval.
How long does a typical project take?
Project timelines vary depending on size and complexity. Smaller renovations and extensions typically take 6–12 weeks, while full builds or large-scale projects can range from 4–9 months. We provide a clear timeline before work begins and keep you updated throughout to ensure complete transparency.
Will I have a dedicated point of contact?
Yes. Every project is assigned a dedicated project manager who will be your single point of contact from start to finish. They will keep you updated regularly, answer any questions, and ensure everything runs smoothly without confusion or delays.
Do you offer fixed-price quotes?
Yes. We provide detailed, itemised quotes so you know exactly what you're paying for. Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden costs or unexpected surprises during the project.
Can I live in my property during the build?
In many cases, yes — particularly for smaller renovations or extensions. However, for larger or more complex projects, temporary relocation may be recommended for safety and efficiency. We will always advise you honestly based on your specific project.
What makes HSS different from other builders?
Unlike many contractors, we offer a fully managed design-and-build service. From initial concept and planning permission to construction and final handover, everything is handled under one roof. This ensures better communication, faster timelines, and a stress-free experience for our clients.
Do you manage building control and inspections?
Yes, we handle all necessary building control processes, including arranging inspections at key stages of the project. This ensures your build meets all legal requirements and avoids any issues during or after completion.
Can you help with design ideas if I’m unsure what I want?
Absolutely. Our architectural team works closely with you to develop concepts that match your vision, budget, and lifestyle. We provide expert guidance, 3D visualisations, and practical recommendations to help you make confident decisions.
How do you ensure projects stay on budget?
We carefully plan every stage of the project and provide a fully itemised quote upfront. Throughout the build, we maintain strict cost control and keep you informed of any decisions that may affect the budget — ensuring there are no unexpected surprises.
What types of projects do you specialise in?
We specialise in high-quality residential and commercial construction, including home extensions, loft conversions, full property refurbishments, new builds, and commercial fit-outs. Our team is particularly experienced in delivering premium, detail-focused projects.
Still have questions?
Our team is ready to discuss your unique project requirements.
Contact Our Team