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FAQ

Straight answers to the questions we’re asked most — how our design and build process works, how quoting works, timelines, and what working with us actually looks like. If you’re considering an extension, loft conversion or full renovation, start here.

What services does S & M Solutions Ltd offer?

We’re a residential design and build contractor covering South East, Central and East London. Everything runs under one contract: house extensions, loft conversions, full home renovations, new builds, and architectural design and engineering — including listed buildings and conservation areas.

How does the design and build process work?

One team, one contract, from first drawings to handover:

  1. Enquiry – Tell us about the project. Every enquiry is reviewed personally, and if it’s a good fit we’ll call you to discuss it.
  2. Consultation and site visit – We carry out a paid site visit to assess the property properly, then prepare a detailed written quotation. If you proceed with us, part of that fee is credited against your build.
  3. Design and planning – Our architectural team prepares drawings, planning applications and structural details. Design and estimating happen together in-house, so the scheme you approve is one we know can be built for the figure quoted.
  4. Build – Our own team delivers the work, with a dedicated project manager and building control handled as part of the contract.
  5. Completion and aftercare – Final walkthrough, certifications, handover, and support after the build.

Do you offer free estimates?

No — and there’s a reason. A meaningful quote requires a proper site visit and hours of detailed measurement and specification work, not a guess from photos. We charge for that visit and produce a detailed written quotation you can actually rely on. If you proceed with us, part of the fee is credited against your build. Clients tell us the document is worth it even when comparing builders — it’s usually the most thorough quote they receive.

What kind of projects do you take on?

Full design and build projects: extensions, loft conversions, whole-house renovations and new builds, typically running three to nine months. We’re not the right fit for single-trade jobs, small repairs or labour-only work. If you’re planning a complete project and want one accountable team from design to handover, we should talk.

Do you subcontract the build?

No. The same in-house team that designs your project delivers it. That’s the point of design and build done properly — nothing falls between an architect and a builder, and there’s one name accountable for the result.

Is S & M Solutions Ltd insured and accredited?

Yes. We’re members of the Federation of Master Builders, carry public liability insurance up to £5 million and employer’s liability insurance up to £10 million. Our founder holds an NVQ Level 6 in Construction Site Management and brings over 22 years in construction to every project.

Do you work on listed buildings and conservation areas?

Yes — it’s a genuine speciality, not a line on a list. We’ve delivered a full back-to-brick refurbishment and extension of a Grade II listed house in London E1, and we work regularly within conservation areas across the Royal Borough of Greenwich and beyond. We handle the heritage and planning constraints as part of the contract.

Do I need planning permission?

Depends on the project — some work falls under permitted development, some needs a full application, and conservation areas add their own rules. You don’t need to work it out: we assess it during design, handle the application, and manage building control through to certification.

How long will my project take?

Most of our projects run three to four months; larger renovations and new builds can run up to nine. You get a clear programme before work starts, and where it suits the client we can phase work over stages — see our phased renovation case study in SE18 for how that works in practice.

How will I be kept informed during the build?

Three ways: a client portal showing progress in real time, face-to-face meetings every two weeks once work starts, and everything agreed in writing. You stay informed without having to project-manage anything — that’s our job.

Can I choose my own materials and finishes?

Yes — the specification is entirely yours. Be as specific as you like about finishes, fixtures and fittings; we’ll source and install to your exact requirements. We manage all procurement directly, which keeps accountability in one place and ensures everything arrives on time and is installed to the standard the project deserves.

Can you provide references or examples of previous projects?

Of course. Well over 180 projects completed in 11 years — browse the portfolio, case studies and testimonials, and we’re happy to discuss similar past projects when we talk about yours.

How do I start?

Fill in the contact form with your project details. Every enquiry is reviewed personally, and if your project aligns with how we work, we’ll be in touch to arrange the next step.

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Get in Touch

Feel free to contact us if you have any additional queries that are not covered here. Our team is always happy to assist you!

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