Ace Alfa Construction FAQ

Frequently asked questions about our London construction services

Practical answers to the most common questions homeowners ask before starting an extension, loft conversion, renovation, new build, kitchen, or bathroom project in London. If your question is not answered here, call 07878 537 554 and we will answer it directly.

New build questions

How long does a new build take in London?

A typical residential new build in London takes 12-20 months from planning application to handover. The planning stage alone can take 3-4 months. We provide a full project programme at the initial consultation so you have a realistic timeline before committing.

Do you manage planning permission for new builds?

Yes. We work with architectural partners to prepare planning drawings and submit applications to the relevant London borough council. We manage the process and respond to planning queries on your behalf.

Can you build on my plot in London?

We assess all plots across London for feasibility, planning potential, and structural constraints. Infill plots, garden plots, and side-land plots are all considered. Contact us with your plot details and we will arrange an initial consultation.

Extension questions

Do I need planning permission for a house extension in London?

Many rear and side extensions fall under Permitted Development rights and do not require planning permission, as long as they meet size and design criteria. Properties in conservation areas, listed buildings, or flats are subject to stricter rules. We assess your property at the initial consultation and advise you before any work begins.

How long does a house extension take in London?

A typical single-storey rear extension takes 8-12 weeks on site once planning is approved. Double-storey extensions usually take 12-16 weeks. Planning and design adds 8-12 weeks before site work begins. We provide a full project timeline in your written quote.

How much does a house extension cost in London?

Costs vary depending on size, type, specification, and location. We provide a full written quote after visiting your property with no hidden costs.

Loft conversion questions

Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion in London?

Most loft conversions fall under Permitted Development and do not require planning permission, provided they meet volume limits and design conditions. Exceptions include properties in conservation areas, listed buildings, flats, and certain mansard conversions. We confirm your planning status at the site assessment stage.

How much does a loft conversion cost in London?

Costs depend on the conversion type, size, and interior specification. We provide a full written quote following your free site assessment.

How much head height do I need for a loft conversion?

You generally need a minimum of 2.2 metres from floor to ridge. We measure this at the site visit. If your current head height is lower, we may be able to raise the ridge or recommend a dormer solution to create the required space.

Renovation questions

How long does a full house renovation take in London?

A full house renovation typically takes 12-24 weeks depending on property size and scope. A single-floor renovation can complete in 4-8 weeks. We provide a detailed works programme with your written quote before any work begins.

Can I stay in the property during the renovation?

In most cases, yes - particularly for targeted or floor-by-floor renovations. For full gut refurbishments we typically advise temporary relocation for part of the project. We plan the works programme to minimise the time you need to be out.

Do you handle structural work like removing walls and adding steelwork?

Yes. We manage structural alterations including load-bearing wall removal, steel beam installation, and floor joist replacement. We work with a structural engineer and obtain building regulation approval before any structural work begins.

Kitchen questions

How much does a kitchen renovation cost in London?

Costs depend on the scope of work, kitchen size, and specification. We provide a full written quote after your site visit.

Do you remove walls to create open-plan kitchens?

Yes. We carry out structural wall removals, install steel beams to support the structure, and manage all building regulation sign-off. Open-plan kitchen conversions are one of our most common projects in London.

Can you install a kitchen I have already purchased?

Yes. We regularly install kitchens from any supplier. You purchase the units and we manage delivery coordination, installation, and all associated trades.

Bathroom questions

How long does a bathroom renovation take in London?

A full bathroom strip-out and refit typically takes 7-12 working days. En-suite installations in new spaces can take slightly longer. We provide a programme with your written quote.

Can you move the toilet or bath to a different position?

Yes. We manage full plumbing alterations including relocating soil pipes, waste runs, and supply pipes. Layout changes are costed in your written quote before any work begins.

Do you supply the tiles and sanitaryware or do I need to provide them?

Both options work. We can source tiles and sanitaryware through our trade suppliers, often at better prices than retail, or you can supply your own fixtures and we install them.

General questions

Which areas of London do you cover?

We cover all London boroughs including Chelsea, Kensington, Westminster, Islington, Camden, Hammersmith, Fulham, Wandsworth, Lambeth, Southwark, Barnet, Hackney, and Tower Hamlets. There is no travel surcharge for any borough. See our full service areas page for more detail.

How quickly can I get a quote?

We typically arrange a site visit within 3-5 working days of your initial enquiry. Following the site visit, you receive a full written quote broken down by trade within 3-5 working days. For urgent enquiries, call 07878 537 554 directly.

Is all your work fully insured?

Yes. All work carried out by Ace Alfa Construction is fully insured including public liability insurance. We are happy to provide insurance documentation on request before work begins.

Do you provide a written contract before work starts?

Yes. Every project starts with a written scope of works, programme, and cost breakdown. No work begins without a signed agreement. This protects both parties and ensures there are no surprises during the build.

How do I get started?

Call 07878 537 554, email acealfaconstructionltd@gmail.com, or use the quote form on our contact page. We will arrange a free site visit, assess the project, and provide a full written quote - no obligation.

Still have a question?

Call us directly on 07878 537 554 or request a callback below. We respond to all enquiries within 24 hours and are happy to answer questions before you commit to anything.