Every tool on this page is free, instant and built on official data — no sign-up, no email gate. They are screening aids for the questions UK planning applications ask most often: flood zones, flood vulnerability, air quality, daylight, heating carbon, permitted development and biodiversity net gain. These tools also live permanently at clockfortress.com/free-tools — bookmark whichever you prefer; each tool has its own guide explaining the method behind it.
1 · Flood zone checker
Type a postcode, get your Environment Agency flood zone (rivers and the sea) with planning advice. Guide: what flood zone am I in? · data: England flood risk statistics.
This checker needs JavaScript — or use the official Flood Map for Planning.
2 · Can I build it? Flood vulnerability checker
Zone + development type → appropriate, Exception Test, or not permitted, per the NPPF matrix. Guide: can I build in a flood zone?
This checker needs JavaScript — the rules are in the PPG flood risk guidance.
3 · AQMA checker
Is your site inside a declared Air Quality Management Area? Guide: AQMA checker · data: how many AQMAs are there in 2026?
This checker needs JavaScript — or browse AQMAs on Defra UK-AIR.
4 · Daylight calculator (BRE 0.8-times rule)
Screen a window against the BR 209 (2022) VSC and APSH tests. Guide: daylight calculator · all the targets: BRE 2022 daylight tables.
This calculator needs JavaScript — the tests are explained in our daylight targets reference.
5 · Heat pump vs gas boiler carbon calculator
Compare heating carbon using the SAP 10.2 factors behind Part L 2021. Guide: heat pump carbon calculator · market context: UK heat pump statistics.
This calculator needs JavaScript — the factors are explained in our heat pump statistics guide.
6 · Heat pump permitted development checker
Do you need planning permission for an air source heat pump under the 2025 rules? Guide: heat pump planning permission checker.
This checker needs JavaScript — the rules are in our permitted development guide.
7 · BNG statutory credit cost calculator
What a biodiversity-unit shortfall costs through statutory credits, at official 2026 prices with the ×2 spatial multiplier. Guide: BNG credit calculator · analysis: statutory credit prices 2026.
This calculator needs JavaScript — the official price list is on GOV.UK.
From screening to a planning-ready report
Each tool answers the first question; the matching report answers the council's. Our automated services prepare planning-ready reports: flood risk assessments, air quality assessments, energy statements and sustainability statements — plus professionally prepared daylight and sunlight reports. See all services or talk to us about your project.
Sources & further reading
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