Frequently asked questions
What is PlanPulse?
PlanPulse is a web app for UK property professionals to track the status of planning applications across multiple councils. We retrieve and normalise data from council planning portals so you can search, save and monitor applications from a single dashboard instead of checking each council website individually.
Who is PlanPulse for?
It is built for property professionals — developers, planning consultants, surveyors, architects and estate agents — who need to keep an eye on planning applications across several local planning authorities at once.
How do I search for a planning application?
Use the Search page to look up applications by address, postcode or reference number. PlanPulse queries the planning portals of the councils we support and presents the results in one consistent format, regardless of which portal software each council runs (Idox, Northgate, Uniform, MasterGov or SWICT).
How do I track an application, and where do tracked applications appear?
When you find an application you care about, save it to start tracking it. Saved applications appear on your Dashboard, where you can monitor their progress through the planning process. You can also view them on the Map and in the Updates feed.
How do email status-change alerts work?
PlanPulse periodically re-checks the council portal for each application you track. When the status of a tracked application changes, we send you an email so you hear about it the moment it happens — no manual checking required.
What does the Map view show?
The Map plots your tracked applications as pins on an OpenStreetMap map. Selecting a pin opens a detail panel for that application, making it easy to see at a glance where your applications are located.
How current and accurate is the data?
Planning data comes directly from publicly accessible council planning portals and is provided for information only. Portals can be updated at different times and may contain errors or omissions, so always verify important details directly with the relevant local planning authority.
Is there a free trial?
Yes. Every new account starts with a 30-day free trial, with no card required, so you can search and track applications straight away at no cost. When the trial ends, choose the plan that best suits your needs to keep using the service.
How much does PlanPulse cost?
We offer two self-serve plans: Individual at £19.99 per month and Team at £99.99 per month. All prices are exclusive of VAT. Larger organisations can request a bespoke Custom plan. You can compare every plan on the Pricing page.
What is the difference between Individual and Team?
Individual is ideal for a single planning consultant, surveyor or architect: it covers up to 50 tracked applications, email alerts, deadline tracking, the map view, filters and search, CSV export and email support. Team is built for small to mid-sized teams and adds everything in Individual plus unlimited tracked applications, 10 users, telephone support, team comments and calendar management.
Can I upgrade from Individual to Team later?
Yes. We recommend starting with an Individual account and upgrading to Team once you need more tracked applications, additional users or team collaboration features.
Do you offer a custom or enterprise plan?
Yes. For larger organisations that need API access, a dedicated portal or a multi-team setup, we offer a bespoke Custom plan. Email us at hello@planpulse.org to discuss your requirements.
Can I switch between light and dark themes?
Yes. Once you are signed in, open My Profile to choose a light, dark or system theme. Your preference is remembered across the app.
How do I reset my password or manage my account?
If you have forgotten your password, use the “Forgot password” link on the sign-in page to receive a reset email. You can manage your account details from My Profile, and you may delete your account at any time.
Who do I contact for help?
If you have a question that is not answered here, email us at hello@planpulse.org and we will be happy to help.