Your Privacy Matters to Us

Your Privacy Matters to Us

At Planning Buddy, we believe homeowners should feel confident not just about their extension plans — but also about how their personal information is handled.

We only collect the information we need to provide your report, and we never sell or misuse your data. This policy explains what we collect, why we collect it, and how we keep it safe.

If you have any questions, just drop us a line at hello@planningbuddy.co.uk.

Last updated: [Insert Date]

1. Introduction and Purpose

Planning Buddy respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, process, and store information provided by you (“the user” or “client”) when using our website and services. By submitting information through our forms or using our Service, you consent to the practices described in this policy.

This policy applies solely to data collected through our official online submission forms. We do not accept or process data via email, image upload, phone call, or informal means. Do not submit any information through any channel other than those provided.

2. Data We Collect

We collect only the data required to assess your permitted development eligibility. This may include:

– Full name

– Contact email address

– Property address (including postcode)

– Project-related information submitted via structured form fields (e.g. measurements, positions, materials, etc.)

– Technical details such as submission timestamp or browser type

– Payment details (collected via a third-party processor)

We do not knowingly collect sensitive personal data (e.g. medical, racial, biometric). Do not include such data in your submission.

3. Method and Legal Basis for Collection

We collect personal data directly from you via forms that you complete voluntarily. You are under no obligation to use our service. By doing so, you explicitly consent to the processing of your data for the stated purposes.

Our legal bases for processing include:

– Performance of a contract (delivering your report)

– Consent (when you submit your data)

– Legal obligation (e.g. compliance with tax or data protection law)

– Legitimate interest (e.g. to prevent fraud, ensure system performance, or improve the service)

4. Use of Data

Your data is used strictly to:

– Generate a personalised PD compliance report

– Deliver that report to your email address

– Process your payment securely

– Communicate with you for clarification or support

– Improve system accuracy through anonymised, aggregated analysis

We do not conduct profiling or automated decision-making for marketing or advertising purposes.

5. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell or rent your personal data. Data may be shared with trusted third-party service providers necessary for the operation of Planning Buddy. These may include:

– A payment processor (e.g. Stripe)

– Website form providers

– Cloud-based document generators and automation platforms

– Email systems (e.g. Google Workspace)

All third-party providers are under contractual obligations to safeguard your data and are compliant with GDPR or equivalent international frameworks.

6. Data Retention

Your data is retained only as long as necessary to fulfil the purpose for which it was collected. Typically:

– Submission and report data: up to 6 months

– Payment data: as required by tax and accounting law

– Backup and system logs: up to 12 months

– Communications (e.g. support email): up to 12 months

You may request early deletion once your report is received, unless legal obligations require us to retain it longer.

7. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk. These include:

– Secure encrypted storage

– Access controls and authentication

– Regular system reviews and monitoring

– Use of trusted, reputable infrastructure providers

While we take every reasonable precaution, no system is 100% secure. You accept this residual risk when submitting your data online.

8. Your Rights

Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), you have the right to:

– Request access to the data we hold about you

– Request rectification of inaccurate data

– Request erasure of your data (“right to be forgotten”)

– Restrict or object to processing

– Withdraw consent (if processing was based on consent)

– Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

To exercise these rights, email hello@planningbuddy.co.uk. We aim to respond within 30 days.

9. Use of Cookies and Analytics

We may use essential cookies to ensure functionality of the website and non-essential tools such as Google Analytics to monitor performance. These may collect:

– Browser type

– Device type

– Pages visited

– Duration of session

– Referring site

Analytics tools anonymise or pseudonymise data and do not identify individual users. You can opt out via your browser settings or using industry-standard opt-out tools.

10. International Transfers

Some data processing may involve transfer to service providers outside the UK. In such cases, we ensure providers meet adequate safeguards such as:

– Binding corporate rules

– Standard contractual clauses

– Privacy Shield or similar frameworks (where applicable)

11. Changes to this Privacy Policy

We may update this policy from time to time. Updates will be posted on our website and take immediate effect. Continued use of the service implies acceptance of the latest version.

12. Contact

For any privacy-related enquiries, or to exercise your data rights, contact:

hello@planningbuddy.co.uk

Your Privacy Matters to Us

At Planning Buddy, we believe homeowners should feel confident not just about their extension plans — but also about how their personal information is handled.

We only collect the information we need to provide your report, and we never sell or misuse your data. This policy explains what we collect, why we collect it, and how we keep it safe.

If you have any questions, just drop us a line at hello@planningbuddy.co.uk.

Last updated: [Insert Date]

1. Introduction and Purpose

Planning Buddy respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, process, and store information provided by you (“the user” or “client”) when using our website and services. By submitting information through our forms or using our Service, you consent to the practices described in this policy.

This policy applies solely to data collected through our official online submission forms. We do not accept or process data via email, image upload, phone call, or informal means. Do not submit any information through any channel other than those provided.

2. Data We Collect

We collect only the data required to assess your permitted development eligibility. This may include:

– Full name

– Contact email address

– Property address (including postcode)

– Project-related information submitted via structured form fields (e.g. measurements, positions, materials, etc.)

– Technical details such as submission timestamp or browser type

– Payment details (collected via a third-party processor)

We do not knowingly collect sensitive personal data (e.g. medical, racial, biometric). Do not include such data in your submission.

3. Method and Legal Basis for Collection

We collect personal data directly from you via forms that you complete voluntarily. You are under no obligation to use our service. By doing so, you explicitly consent to the processing of your data for the stated purposes.

Our legal bases for processing include:

– Performance of a contract (delivering your report)

– Consent (when you submit your data)

– Legal obligation (e.g. compliance with tax or data protection law)

– Legitimate interest (e.g. to prevent fraud, ensure system performance, or improve the service)

4. Use of Data

Your data is used strictly to:

– Generate a personalised PD compliance report

– Deliver that report to your email address

– Process your payment securely

– Communicate with you for clarification or support

– Improve system accuracy through anonymised, aggregated analysis

We do not conduct profiling or automated decision-making for marketing or advertising purposes.

5. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell or rent your personal data. Data may be shared with trusted third-party service providers necessary for the operation of Planning Buddy. These may include:

– A payment processor (e.g. Stripe)

– Website form providers

– Cloud-based document generators and automation platforms

– Email systems (e.g. Google Workspace)

All third-party providers are under contractual obligations to safeguard your data and are compliant with GDPR or equivalent international frameworks.

6. Data Retention

Your data is retained only as long as necessary to fulfil the purpose for which it was collected. Typically:

– Submission and report data: up to 6 months

– Payment data: as required by tax and accounting law

– Backup and system logs: up to 12 months

– Communications (e.g. support email): up to 12 months

You may request early deletion once your report is received, unless legal obligations require us to retain it longer.

7. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk. These include:

– Secure encrypted storage

– Access controls and authentication

– Regular system reviews and monitoring

– Use of trusted, reputable infrastructure providers

While we take every reasonable precaution, no system is 100% secure. You accept this residual risk when submitting your data online.

8. Your Rights

Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), you have the right to:

– Request access to the data we hold about you

– Request rectification of inaccurate data

– Request erasure of your data (“right to be forgotten”)

– Restrict or object to processing

– Withdraw consent (if processing was based on consent)

– Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

To exercise these rights, email hello@planningbuddy.co.uk. We aim to respond within 30 days.

9. Use of Cookies and Analytics

We may use essential cookies to ensure functionality of the website and non-essential tools such as Google Analytics to monitor performance. These may collect:

– Browser type

– Device type

– Pages visited

– Duration of session

– Referring site

Analytics tools anonymise or pseudonymise data and do not identify individual users. You can opt out via your browser settings or using industry-standard opt-out tools.

10. International Transfers

Some data processing may involve transfer to service providers outside the UK. In such cases, we ensure providers meet adequate safeguards such as:

– Binding corporate rules

– Standard contractual clauses

– Privacy Shield or similar frameworks (where applicable)

11. Changes to this Privacy Policy

We may update this policy from time to time. Updates will be posted on our website and take immediate effect. Continued use of the service implies acceptance of the latest version.

12. Contact

For any privacy-related enquiries, or to exercise your data rights, contact:

hello@planningbuddy.co.uk

Frequently asked questions

Have a question? Here are the most common ones.

Still unsure? Email us at: support@planningbuddy.co.uk

What does Planning Buddy do?

We check whether your home project — like an extension, loft, or garden room — needs planning permission. You get a free, personalised report in minutes.

Why is it free?

We’re funded by trusted local professionals — architects and builders — who pay to be featured in some reports and on our Featured Pros page. This allows us to offer the service to homeowners completely free — with no hidden fees or obligations.

What if I am unsure about something?

Each question includes hints and explanations. Just answer as accurately as you can — we will guide you through it.

Will my details be shared with anyone?

No — never without your permission. You stay in control. We don’t sell your data. If you choose to connect with a trusted local professional featured in your report or on the Featured Pros page, we’ll only share your details after you confirm.

Will this apply to my local council?

Yes — we check your answers against national planning rules, which apply across England. If you tell us your home is listed or in a special area (like a conservation area), your report will reflect that and show how it affects your planning rights.

Is this a formal planning decision?

No — the report is a planning guidance tool, not a formal decision from your council. It tells you whether your project is likely to fall under Permitted Development or if you may need to apply for full planning permission. If permission isn’t needed, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) for extra peace of mind — especially if you plan to sell your home later.

How accurate is the report?

Your answers are checked against the latest national planning rules. While it’s not a formal decision, the report gives you a clear, personalised assessment based on your property and plans. Just make sure your answers are accurate — the outcome depends on them.

Frequently asked questions

Have a question? Here are the most common ones.

Still unsure? Email us at: support@planningbuddy.co.uk

What does Planning Buddy do?

We check whether your home project — like an extension, loft, or garden room — needs planning permission. You get a free, personalised report in minutes.

Why is it free?

We’re funded by trusted local professionals — architects and builders — who pay to be featured in some reports and on our Featured Pros page. This allows us to offer the service to homeowners completely free — with no hidden fees or obligations.

What if I am unsure about something?

Each question includes hints and explanations. Just answer as accurately as you can — we will guide you through it.

Will my details be shared with anyone?

No — never without your permission. You stay in control. We don’t sell your data. If you choose to connect with a trusted local professional featured in your report or on the Featured Pros page, we’ll only share your details after you confirm.

Will this apply to my local council?

Yes — we check your answers against national planning rules, which apply across England. If you tell us your home is listed or in a special area (like a conservation area), your report will reflect that and show how it affects your planning rights.

Is this a formal planning decision?

No — the report is a planning guidance tool, not a formal decision from your council. It tells you whether your project is likely to fall under Permitted Development or if you may need to apply for full planning permission. If permission isn’t needed, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) for extra peace of mind — especially if you plan to sell your home later.

How accurate is the report?

Your answers are checked against the latest national planning rules. While it’s not a formal decision, the report gives you a clear, personalised assessment based on your property and plans. Just make sure your answers are accurate — the outcome depends on them.

FAQs

Have a question? Here are the most common ones.

Still unsure? Email us at: support@planningbuddy.co.uk

What does Planning Buddy do?

We check whether your home project — like an extension, loft, or garden room — needs planning permission. You get a free, personalised report in minutes.

Why is it free?

We’re funded by trusted local professionals — architects and builders — who pay to be featured in some reports and on our Featured Pros page. This allows us to offer the service to homeowners completely free — with no hidden fees or obligations.

What if I am unsure about something?

Each question includes hints and explanations. Just answer as accurately as you can — we will guide you through it.

Will my details be shared with anyone?

No — never without your permission. You stay in control. We don’t sell your data. If you choose to connect with a trusted local professional featured in your report or on the Featured Pros page, we’ll only share your details after you confirm.

Will this apply to my local council?

Yes — we check your answers against national planning rules, which apply across England. If you tell us your home is listed or in a special area (like a conservation area), your report will reflect that and show how it affects your planning rights.

Is this a formal planning decision?

No — the report is a planning guidance tool, not a formal decision from your council. It tells you whether your project is likely to fall under Permitted Development or if you may need to apply for full planning permission. If permission isn’t needed, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) for extra peace of mind — especially if you plan to sell your home later.

How accurate is the report?

Your answers are checked against the latest national planning rules. While it’s not a formal decision, the report gives you a clear, personalised assessment based on your property and plans. Just make sure your answers are accurate — the outcome depends on them.

Ready to get started?

Start your Planning Check now

Takes 5 minutes
Free PDF report
No jargon

Ready to get started?

Start your Planning Check now

Takes 5 minutes
Free PDF report
No jargon

Ready to get started?

Start your Planning Check now

Takes 5 minutes
Free PDF report
No jargon