Frequently asked questions
The questions we are asked most often, answered plainly. If yours is not here, ask us: we would rather answer it before you commission anything than after.
What are the payment terms?
Invoices will be raised on acceptance of our fee proposal, in line with our company terms of business. Invoices will need to be cleared before the release of the design files.
What do I need to provide before drainage design work can start?
Where they are available, these are what we work from:
- Percolation test results, or a GI/SI report, required
- SVP and RWP locations, can be assumed if you do not have them
- CCTV report, where applicable; information from site can be used
- Local sewer records: we can obtain these
- Proposed site drawings in DWG format, required
- Topographical survey in DWG format: we can purchase LiDAR data
- External levels drawing: site dependent
If you do not have all of it, say so, several of these we can obtain or assume, and we would rather start the conversation than wait.
When will I receive the design package?
We will give you a programme for your scheme when we quote, so you know where you stand before committing. If you are working to a deadline, tell us early and we will say honestly whether it is achievable.
We cannot schedule your works in until we have all the information required, so the programme starts when the last piece arrives rather than when the fee proposal is accepted.
Will I be kept up to date throughout the process?
Yes. We will keep in contact throughout, and if we need more information or hit an issue, we will always let you know rather than let a deadline pass quietly.
You should not need to chase us inside the timescale quoted on acceptance, if we are going to go past it, you will hear it from us first.
Are there any additional charges?
Additional charges only arise in two situations: if the layout changes and we have to start again, or if the relevant authority requests information that was not covered in the initial fee proposal.
What is a percolation or infiltration test?
A percolation test determines whether infiltration techniques can be used on your site, in line with the SuDS hierarchy. It is the test that decides whether a soakaway is viable at all, and it is cheaper to do before the design than to redesign afterwards.
See percolation testing and soakaway design for what is involved.
Does the fee include any third-party fees?
No. Our fee proposals do not cover third-party fees, authority charges, water company fees and similar must be paid directly by the client.
Still not sure?
Send us the site address and the condition wording, or the planning reference. We will tell you what is needed, exactly what is needed, and if you do not need us, we will say so.