Design appraisals are generally a desk top evaluation of a proposed design scheme. A design appraisal will advise you of the physical accessibility of the scheme and compliance with the design provisions in Approved Document M of the Building Regulations as a minimum standard, before the scheme has been built.

A design appraisal can be used to help inform a design and access statement.

They can take the form of architectural drawings which are marked up in red with appropriate comments or alternatively can be issued as a Word document. A Word document can become a live tracking document where the design team and client include their comments and the action taken. This can then be included in an access statement as part of the history of the project and will document the reasons as to why certain decisions were made.
An example page can be seen here...

If your design is at the early stages

This is the perfect time for my involvement as I can advise on the initial layout in principle through to the detailed design stages. This is the most efficient way to proceed with the design process. I can work alongside you as a member of the design team if required, advising at each stage of the design process.

If your design is in the advanced stages

Following our initial meeting and understanding of your design scheme, I will assess your drawing packages, schedules and specifications and provide my recommendations. This will be followed up by a meeting to review the report in detail and to offer further advice and recommendations.