Professional Advice — Free
When Professional Planning Advice Is Recommended
PlanningPackPro AI uses a deterministic rules engine to decide whether your project is suitable for an automated paperwork pack. When the inputs describe a situation that should not be automated, we escalate to a free professional referral instead of selling you the wrong pack.
Quick answer
The Professional Advice route is free. You will see local architects and, where available, local planning consultants who can advise on listed buildings, flats, complex sites, Article 4 risk and any project where deterministic rules cannot produce a reliable outcome.
You provide the drawings. Council fees are paid separately. PlanningPackPro AI generates route-specific paperwork support based on your answers. It does not guarantee approval.
When this route may apply
- Listed buildings — Listed Building Consent is required in addition to planning permission.
- Flats and maisonettes — Class A and Class E Permitted Development rights do not apply.
- Designated land (Conservation Area, AONB, National Park, World Heritage Site, the Broads).
- Article 4 Direction status uncertain or confirmed.
- Two-storey rear extensions near boundary — multiple Class A conditions cannot be reliably automated.
- Tier-deciding measurement marked 'not sure' or contradictory inputs.
- Properties in Scotland or Northern Ireland — not currently supported.
When professional advice may be needed
- Any escalation reason above — you should consult a qualified architect or planning consultant.
- Commercial property or change-of-use where householder rules do not apply.
- Unusual site constraints (boundary disputes, ancient rights of way, biodiversity).
- Projects where insurance, mortgage or sale implications matter.
What PlanningPackPro AI can generate
- A plain-English explanation of why your project was escalated.
- Local architects list with contact details where available.
- Local planning consultants where available.
- Guidance on what a professional should look at next.
What you still need to provide
- Direct contact with the professional you choose.
- Any drawings, surveys or correspondence you already hold.
- Decisions about how to proceed — PlanningPackPro AI does not act on your behalf.