Prefabrication and modular construction are both off-site construction methods that involve building components in a controlled factory environment, which are then transported to the construction site for assembly. They are becoming increasingly popular for homeowners looking to expand their living space. What’s the difference between a prefab extension and a modular extension? Prefabrication generally… Read more »
Posts Categorized: Legal Considerations
Do you need planning permission for a fence or wall?
Planning permission for a fence or wall You do not need planning permission to erect a new one or alter, maintain, improve or take down an existing fence, wall or gate. However, the following conditions must be adhered to: There must not be any listed buildings on the site. There must not be any listed buildings on… Read more »
Planning permission in an AONB
What is an AONB? An AONB stands for ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.’ It is a designation given to a specific geographic area in the United Kingdom that is considered to have significant natural beauty and environmental significance. AONBs are similar to National Parks in terms of their protected status and the level of conservation… Read more »
How to build a house in your garden – a concise guide
Can you build a house in your garden? If you have a large garden (or driveway in fact) that’s accessible directly from the road, it can provide a fantastic development opportunity to build a house on your land. The advantages of this approach to a self-building are potentially huge: It could significantly increase the total value of… Read more »
Planning for a mansard roof extension
Extension design above by Amos, architect from Islington, London. See more and shortlist them for your home project here. You may be considering applying for planning for a mansard roof extension if your existing loft space is not high enough or the wrong shape for a straight conversion or dormer extension. What is a mansard roof… Read more »
How long does a planning application take? And how to avoid delays…
How long does a planning application take? Whether you are proposing an extension, loft conversion or new build, planning permission usually takes eight weeks to be granted, unless your application is ‘unusually large or complex’, in which case the deadline can be extended to 13 weeks. Design above by Ash, architect from Lambeth,… Read more »
Do I need a party wall surveyor?
Extension design above by Gareth, architect from Haringey, London. See more and shortlist them for your home project here. Before we answer the question, ‘Do I need a party wall surveyor’, we’ll address the more important question, ‘Do I need to serve a party wall notice?’ as you may not require a surveyor if… Read more »
Do you need planning permission for a loft conversion?
In most circumstances you will not need planning permission for a loft conversion, as the development will be covered by GPDO (permitted development). However, you should also check if your permitted development rights are restricted or have been removed (see below)* Roof extension pictured above by Ben+Eoin, architect from Southwark, London. Click here to… Read more »
What is the average and minimum ceiling height in a house?
What’s the minimum ceiling height allowed? Funnily enough, this is one of the most common questions I’m asked as a residential architect. But for good reason: it’s so important to look at the most obvious constraints of a renovation project first. It will shape the brief, how much you are willing to spend on the… Read more »
Conversions to a house without planning permission
Under current planning legislation there are certain conversions to a house that fall under permitted development, meaning you can convert to a house without planning permission. They fall under GDPO (General Permitted Development) Order 1995, where a planning permission is not required. However, there are important exceptions to these rights, which are outlined below. … Read more »
