Business Details
24 Years
experience
Expert Building Surveyors and Architectural Design Services
Michael Brebner Architects & Building Surveyors was established in 2002 by Michael Brebner, operating as a Chartered Building Consultancy under the Chartered Institute of Building's (CIOB) code of conduct. Our expertise spans residential and commercial building surveys, architectural design, and project management, with a commitment to delivering detailed, client-focused solutions. We specialise in pre-purchase structural surveys, planning applications, and 3D visualisation, serving homeowners, landlords, and commercial clients across Essex, London, Kent, and Hertfordshire. Our team combines Chartered professional standards with a personal approach, offering services such as schedules of condition, dilapidation reports, and energy assessments.With over two decades of experience, we prioritise transparency, technical excellence, and value-driven outcomes, evidenced by our 10-working-day turnaround for reports and a track record of positive client testimonials. We maintain affiliations with industry bodies like the CIOB and CIAT, ensuring adherence to rigorous professional standards. Our non-VAT-registered status provides cost advantages for clients, while our local market knowledge enhances service delivery across our operational regions.
Services
Building Surveys
Architectural Design
Planning Applications
3D Visualisation
Party Wall Act Services
Dilapidation Reports
Energy Assessments
Project Management
Schedules of Condition
Loft Conversions
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- Chartered Building Consultancy status with the CIOB ensures professional excellence
- 10-working-day turnaround for detailed building survey reports
- Specialist expertise in residential and commercial property assessments
- Non-VAT-registered status provides cost savings for clients
- 20+ years of combined experience in architectural design and surveying
Associations and certifications
- Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
What people say
Highly recommend
First-class service
Professional service
Comprehensive surveys
Disaster averted
Services
Building Surveys
We conduct detailed residential and commercial building surveys, including pre-purchase structural evaluations and dilapidation reports. Our surveys identify issues like damp, structural movement, and timber decay through non-intrusive inspections. Clients receive comprehensive reports with actionable recommendations, supporting informed property investment decisions.
Architectural Design
Our architectural design team creates 2D CAD and 3D visualisation plans for residential extensions, loft conversions, and commercial developments. We produce drawings suitable for planning and building regulations applications, balancing aesthetic appeal with functional requirements while maintaining cost efficiency.
Planning Applications
We prepare and submit planning applications for residential and commercial projects, including change-of-use proposals and permitted development consultations. Our services cover initial design concepts through to approval, ensuring compliance with local authority requirements and building regulations.
3D Visualisation
Our 3D visualisation service creates detailed digital models to help clients visualise property developments. This tool supports design decision-making, planning applications, and client presentations, offering realistic representations of proposed architectural changes.
Party Wall Act Services
We provide expert guidance under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, preparing schedules of condition and resolving disputes. Our services ensure compliance with legal requirements for shared boundary works, protecting both building owners and adjoining property interests.
People
Michael Brebner
Chartered Building Consultant
Chartered Member of the CIOB with 20+ years' experience, Michael specialises in building surveys and architectural design. He won the CIOB's Davis Scott Memorial Trophy and personally conducts most surveys while leading project management.
George Ford
Senior Architectural Technician
CIAT Affiliate with 5 years' experience at MB Design, George progressed from apprentice to senior technician. He specialises in CAD design and supports architectural projects with technical expertise.
Questions
What areas do you cover?
We operate across Essex, London, Kent, and Hertfordshire, with our base in Benfleet.
Are you Chartered professionals?
Yes, we're a Chartered Building Consultancy under the CIOB with registered professionals.
How long for survey reports?
Reports typically take 10 working days from site visit completion.
Do you offer VAT-free services?
Yes, we're non-VAT-registered, providing cost benefits for clients.
What building types surveyed?
We handle residential (houses, flats) and commercial (warehouses, offices) properties.
Can you handle planning applications?
Yes, we prepare and submit planning and building regulations applications for all project sizes.
Videos