Terms of engagement
These terms summarise how DH Planning works with clients. A written fee quote for your matter forms part of the contract when you instruct us.
Who we are
DH Planning provides planning consultancy services for planning applications, appeals and related advice in England. We are not architects, and we do not hold ourselves out as architects. Design drawings, surveys and specialist reports are arranged separately where needed.
Quotes and fixed fees
We agree a fixed fee for a defined scope before work starts, whenever the case allows. The quote sets out what is included (for example preparing and submitting an application, or drafting appeal grounds) and what is excluded (for example council fees, third-party reports, or further work after a decision). Extra work outside the agreed scope needs a fresh fee agreement.
No outcome guarantee
Planning decisions sit with the local planning authority or the Planning Inspectorate. No planning consultant can guarantee that an application or appeal will be granted. Our role is to prepare accurate, policy-aware submissions and manage the process professionally. Website guidance is general information about the planning system in England, not advice on your specific site until we have been instructed.
Your responsibilities
You must provide accurate information about the site and proposal, and pay council and Inspectorate fees where they apply. Delays caused by missing information, third parties or the authority are outside our control.
Payment
Payment terms are stated on the quote or invoice. Work may pause if invoices are overdue.
Limitation
Our liability is limited to the fee paid for the specific instruction, except where the law does not allow a limit (including death or personal injury caused by negligence, or fraud). We are not liable for consequential loss such as lost development profit where a decision goes against you.
Governing law
These terms and any dispute arising from our services are governed by the law of England and Wales. Courts of England and Wales have exclusive jurisdiction.
Contact
Questions about these terms: hello@dhplanning.co.uk, 01202 767111, or see the contact page.
Last updated for publication: 20 September 2026.