Neighbours and the planning process If you’re worried about a neighbour stopping your house extension plans, it’s very helpful right at the beginning of the project to assess this risk as it may inform design decisions as well as your personal handling of the situation. Featured image from Tyrone, architect from Lambeth, London. See more… Read more »
A Design and Access statement is a written, often illustrated, document that accompanies your planning application form and drawings. It provides an opportunity to explain how your design proposal is a suitable response for its site and wider area. It’s only a requirement for major projects, listed buildings or certain householder applications in a conservation… Read more »
Converting an existing flat roof or new flat roof to a terrace can be a great idea, particularly for properties without a garden. It can raise the value of your home and potentially be an inexpensive upgrade (particularly if the roof is already structurally sound for this purpose – more on that below). Roof… Read more »
… or rather the question should be, will any action be taken by the council if a neighbour objects to your permitted development extension? A neighbour’s objection to your extension can, of course, be taken on board and investigated by your local council. However, if the extension falls within the permitted development guidelines, no action… Read more »
Where a house renovation results in a ‘material change of use’, there are requirements for upgrading certain building elements and meeting standards that go beyond what is required for a typical house renovation. Thanks to Nick Paley at Assure Building Control for their assistance with this article. Assure Building Control provide a fully licenced independent… Read more »
Planning permission is not required to replace windows if they are similar in appearance to those used in the construction of the house, unless your property is listed, in a designated area or has a relevant Article 4 Direction (see the exceptions below). Can I add new windows and doors without planning permission? Most*… Read more »
Can I apply for planning permission before we purchase a house? In short, yes. You do not need to be the owner of a property to apply for planning permission. However, you will need to inform the owner of the property/land prior to submitting the application. Image above by Nick, architect from London. See… Read more »
Is it a basement extension or a basement conversion? There are many reasons why basement conversions are so popular in London. But before we get into what permissions you might need for a basement conversion, we’ll explain how we differentiate between a basement conversion and a basement extension. If you are planning to extend or… Read more »
Planning rules for basement extensions Before we delve into the nitty gritty of planning rules for basement extensions, it’s worth checking whether your basement extension will require permission at all. If you’re unsure, you can see these articles: Do I need planning permission for a basement extension? Do you need planning permission for a basement… Read more »
Photo by Christian Mackie from Unsplash They say, “The devil is in the detail,” and this couldn’t be truer when it comes to bathroom design. Whether you’re soaking in the tub after a long day or simply brushing your teeth, a bathroom can be a functional space or a luxurious retreat. What makes the difference?… Read more »
