Yes. Once a self-assessment is complete, it can be submitted for independent Validation. Supporting evidence will need to be uploaded so that the Panel can confirm the ratings given.

The tool is designed for large-scale housing schemes, but can also be used for smaller residential developments where design quality and placemaking are key considerations. It is particularly relevant for proposals assessed against Paragraph 138 or 84(e) of the NPPF.

Yes. The self-assessment allows you to upload plans, diagrams, or images to illustrate how your scheme performs against the BHL framework. These are strongly encouraged, particularly if you intend to submit for Validation.

No. Once the self-assessment is formally submitted and a certificate requested, it is locked. Any further changes would require a new assessment to be started.

Yes. The tool allows saving and returning later, enabling collaboration between landowners, promoters, consultants, and designers on a single assessment.

No. The tool can only be accessed once payment has been received. However, it follows the published Building for a Healthy Life framework, which is freely available to view separately.

No. Outcomes are determined by the independent Panel based on the evidence provided. Results may be green, amber, or red, reflecting the Panel’s impartial opinion.

Validation is a desk-based review of your completed self-assessment and supporting evidence by The Design Review Panel. Premium Validation includes a site visit, presentation to the Panel, verbal feedback on the day, and a written report alongside the validation certificate.

All validations are carried out independently by named volunteer professionals from The Design Review Panel. BHL Assessments Ltd provides the online tool and arranges the process but does not conduct the reviews itself.

Yes. To enable reviewers to confirm the ratings given in your self-assessment, you must upload supporting evidence such as plans, drawings, and images.

A standard Validation is usually completed within 10 working days of submission. Premium Validations require at least two weeks’ notice to arrange, with written feedback issued within 14 working days afterwards.

Validation: typically 10 working days from submission. Premium Validation: two weeks’ advance notice plus 14 working days after the scheduled review.

No. Validations are conducted by named volunteer professionals, ensuring transparency and accountability.

No. Reviewers are appointed by The Design Review Panel to ensure impartiality and independence. The Panel carefully selects reviewers with relevant expertise.

Validation outcomes reflect the impartial opinion of The Design Review Panel and are not subject to appeal. However, follow-up reviews can be booked to provide additional evidence or clarification.

No. Once confirmed, validation bookings are non-refundable and non-postponable.

No. Premium Validation includes a site visit and focused review against the BHL framework. A full Design Review Panel session considers a project holistically against a broader range of planning and design policy.

Yes. It is possible to commission both, allowing the BHL Validation to be used alongside wider design review feedback. This can strengthen submissions by demonstrating design quality from multiple perspectives.

Yes. A BHL validated certificate can complement a full design review by evidencing how a scheme measures up against national placemaking standards. This can add weight in planning discussions.

Yes. While it does not guarantee approval, a certificate validated by The Design Review Panel may be a material consideration under Paragraph 138 of the NPPF and is often given weight by local planning authorities.

No. BHL Assessments Ltd does not conduct validations or provide professional advice. It provides the online tool and acts as an agent to arrange independent reviews by The Design Review Panel.

The Building for a Healthy Life framework is produced and published independently and is publicly available. BHL Assessments Ltd is not its author, but provides a tool for assessing schemes against it.

BHL Assessments Ltd facilitates the assessment and validation process but is not responsible for the independent opinions of The Design Review Panel. Responsibility for design decisions remains with the applicant and design team.

Yes. All validations are undertaken independently by The Design Review Panel, which operates outside of local authority frameworks to ensure impartiality.