Converting a garage is a popular way to add usable living space to a home without extending the property. But many homeowners are unsure whether planning permission is required. The good news is that most garage conversions can be carried out without planning permission, thanks to permitted development rules. In this article, we’ll explain when… Read more »
Posts Categorized: planning applications
Do you need planning permission for an air source heat pump?
In most cases, homeowners do not require planning permission for an air source heat pump, as it is classed as permitted development. However, you should check that your property/area benefits from these permitted development rights (see below). Air source heat pumps – what can you do under permitted development? In the legislation, air… Read more »
Do you need planning permission for solar panels?
In most cases, solar panels on residential property do not require planning permission as they are classed as permitted development. However, you should check that your property/area benefits from these permitted development rights (more on that below). Solar panels – what can you do under permitted development? Solar equipment is covered under Class A… Read more »
10 Year Rule (previously 4 year rule) – Planning Permission
What has changed? Previously, the “4-year rule” applied to unauthorised building work or a change of use to a single dwelling house, meaning enforcement action could only be taken within four years of completion. However, as of April 25, 2024, the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023 extended this enforcement period to ten years for all… Read more »
Prefab (and modular) extensions: costs, pros and cons
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 »
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 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 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 »
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 »
What are the minimum room sizes for a house?
There are no universal space standards for homes in the UK nor are there universal minimum room sizes. Instead, there are regulations that exist for different circumstances and project types. In any home building or renovation project, the two main statutory obligations you will need to fulfil are planning permission and building regulations approval (building… Read more »
