The Planning Process — When to Go Fast and When to go Deeper
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Not every scheme requires a full 3D scan. Learn how to align the level of daylight and sunlight analysis with project risk—and deliver fast, dependable results without unnecessary cost.
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TL;DR:

Tailor the daylight assessment to your project’s actual risk level. Simple, low-risk extensions rarely justify expensive 3D scanning, while complex urban developments need higher-precision modelling. Our approach adjusts effort and accuracy to save time and money without sacrificing reliability.

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Not every planning application requires the same level of technical detail. A simple single-storey rear extension on a detached home carries nowhere near the risk of a multi-unit scheme on a tightly packed urban street.

At Daylight Planning, we calibrate our precision to the actual level of risk. Our approach is pragmatic and ROI (Return on Investment) focused:there’s no need to commission a full 3D laser scan for a straightforward, low-risk project when a fast, simple preliminary model built from reliable mapping data will do the job.

This fit-for-purpose approach keeps costs down and turn around times short for smaller applications, while still providing planners with clear, defensible daylight and sunlight information they need that supports planning approval.

As project complexity or sensitivity increases, so does the level of modelling type and commitment we apply.

Matching Dependability to Project Risk

When stakes are high—such as in dense urban sites, a site adjoining heritage assets, or projects with rights of light exposure—our deeper technical approach becomes essential. At this level, “good enough” data quickly turns into a commercial risk.

An inaccurate model doesn’t save money; it costs it. It can trigger planning delays, force unnecessarily significant design amendments, or,in the worst cases, open the door to legal disputes.

Our Calibrated Workflow

We tailor our workflow to the real stakes of your project—ensuring you never overpay for unnecessary detail and never risk under-specifying a high-stakes submission.

Low- Risk

For simple, low-sensitivity projects, we build fast,cost-effective models using verified mapping and architect’s drawings. This is ideal for straightforward domestic extensions, detached homes, and sites with minimal planning constraints.

Hybrid/Medium-Risk

Our commercially smart middle ground. We combine desktop modelling with targeted 3D scanning—capturing only the elements that matter, such as a neighbour’s façade or a complex roof profile. This delivers accuracy where it counts, without the cost of a full scan.

High-Risk

For complex, high-value or legally sensitive schemes,we deploy full 3D laser scanning with BIM integration. The result is a robust“digital twin” that provides fully defensible data for planning submissions and any rights of light negotiations.

This calibrated approach saves time and cost without compromising reliability. Planning officers want clarity. Developers want assurance.Our role is to strike the right balance—providing reports that are as streamlined or as detailed as your project demands.

Speed is powerful when it’s strategic. Precision is powerful when it’s proportionate.

If you’d like to discuss which level of fidelity your project needs, book a 15-minute consultation with us now.
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