We want to make finding your best local planning consultant easy. This guide will give you hiring advice, service expectations, and costs.
How to find the best building planning consultants near me
Enter your postcode into the search bar below and click ‘search.’
You’ll then see a list of top-rated and Checkatrade-approved planning consultants near you.
If you’re pressed for time, you can fill out our request a quote form, which takes less than two minutes. Our members will get notified by us to reach out to you directly.
Your questions about planning consultants near you answered
What does a planning consultant do?
A planning consultant helps you navigate the complexities of planning and development projects. This ranges from renovations and extensions to new builds and retrofits.
Hiring someone for their expert advice offers you greater peace of mind. They’ll help with planning permission, guide you through application processes, and make sure your project complies with local and national planning regulations.
In short, they do all the time-consuming and detail-orientated groundwork for you during the design and building process.
Read our expert advice on what a planning consultant can do for you.
Do I need a planning consultant?
The choice to hire a planning consultant depends on the scope and complexity of your project.
For example, if your project involves significant development, is in a conservation or protected area, or you anticipate potential planning issues, a consultant could be extremely beneficial.
This is because they bring their expertise and experience, which saves you time, money, and stress by handling the planning process efficiently and effectively.
Read our 14 home improvements that don’t need planning permission.
Contact or pay a trade through Checkatrade and you’re covered by our 12-month guarantee of up to £1,000*
How much do planning consultants charge per hour in the UK?
The cost of hiring a planning consultant in the UK depends on their experience and the complexity of your project.
On average, expect to pay around £215 per hour. For larger or more time-intensive projects, some consultants might offer fixed-fee arrangements or project-based pricing.
It’s always a good idea to ask for several quotes and compare services to make sure you’re getting good value for your investment.
Read our guide to how much a planning consultant costs for more information.
Questions to ask your planning consultant
Asking planning consultants near you these questions can help you to narrow down your choices and choose the best professional for your needs.
- Have you had any experience with projects like mine before?
- Are you a member of any professional bodies, such as the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)?
- Do you have any references or case studies I can see?
- What is your approach to handling planning applications and potential objections?
- What is your success rate with planning applications?
- How will you keep me updated on the progress of my application?
- Do you see any potential issues with my project we need to address?
- What services do you offer, and what is included in your fee?
- How long do you think the planning process will take for my project?
How do I find a good planning consultant?
Ready to forge ahead and find a reliable planning consultant near you? Here are our top tips.
Ask for recommendations from friends and family
If you know anyone who’s undertaken a similar project to yours, ask them for some recommendations. Personal referrals can provide trustworthy insights.
Use online directories and search tools
A directory like Checkatrade can be an invaluable resource for helping you find a highly-rated planning consultant near you. All our tradespeople have to pass up to 12 checks and adhere to our high standards.
On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.
Check professional accreditation
Look for consultants who are members of professional bodies such as the RTPI. When planning consultants are a part of this membership, it indicates a commitment to high standards and continuous professional development.
Read reviews and testimonials
Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients on the websites of your shortlisted consultants. It’s a good way to get a feel for someone’s skills.
Alternatively, check independent review sites like Checkatrade. A green flag is a profile with consistently positive feedback and detailed case studies, which prove the reliability and professionalism of the tradesperson.
We check the reviews on Checkatrade are from real people, and that trades meet our high standards.
Review their experience and expertise
Ensure the consultant has experience with projects similar to yours. Check their portfolio or ask for case studies demonstrating their expertise in handling projects similar in scope and complexity to yours.
Arrange initial consultations
Schedule consultations with a few shortlisted consultants. This allows you to discuss your project, ask pertinent questions, and gauge their approach and communication style.
Compare quotes and services
Ask for quotes from multiple consultants so you can compare their fees and services and get the best deal. Make sure you understand what’s included in their pricing to avoid any hidden costs.
Check for local knowledge
A planning consultant with experience in your local area will have a better understanding of local planning policies and potential issues. As a result, you’ll have a significant advantage in navigating the planning process smoothly.
Enter your postcode below to get started.