We look at whether you need Conservation Area Consent, and how to give your project the best chance of approval. If you’re planning a home build, renovation or extension, one of the first questions to ask is: am I in a conservation area? It can have significant implications for design, cost and programme. This is… Read more »
In June 2022, new changes to the building regulations came into effect. For all new homes, the main changes involve finding more carbon-efficient ways to heat our homes, improving their thermal efficiency, reducing overheating, and preparing to accommodate electric vehicle charging. There also some changes that will affect extension and renovation projects too (see below)…. Read more »
Listed building consent is a crucial aspect of owning and maintaining a listed property. The need for listed building consent can be triggered for minor or internal alterations—anything that involves the demolition, modification, or expansion of a listed building that could impact its unique architectural or historical significance. See our article here for house renovations… Read more »
You wouldn’t usually need planning permission to convert your garage into additional living space, provided that the space won’t be used as a separate dwelling and the works are all internal. These permitted development rights for a garage conversion will only apply where permitted development rights have not been removed (see below). Converting a… Read more »
Can I build a home extension without permission? The short answer is no; at the very minimum, you will need to get building control approval so you can’t build your extension entirely without permission. However, it could be very straightforward to obtain and does not need to delay you getting started (see below). The other… Read more »
A wraparound extension does not usually benefit from permitted development rights. This is because the extension inherently includes a side extension, which is limited measuring only 50% of the width of the house under permitted development rules. What is a wraparound extension? A wraparound extension combines side extension and a rear extension to make… Read more »
Is it worth getting planning pre-application advice? One of the first hurdles in any home renovation project is obtaining planning permission. Most councils offer a pre-application advice service to homeowners. But is it necessary? It depends on your project and comes down to three things: cost, time and, of course, getting approval for a design… Read more »
How big can I build an extension without planning permission (permitted development)? The permitted development (PD) rules allow many homeowners to build a rear extension without full planning permission — up to six metres from the original rear wall of most houses, or eight metres if your house is detached (subject to the detailed… Read more »
Two storey extension above by Martin, architect on Design for Me. View his full profile and shortlist him for your project here Do I need planning permission for a two storey extension? Two storey extensions do not require planning permission, if they fall within permitted development guidelines described below. How big can I build… Read more »
You don’t need planning permission for a loft conversion or extension if the work falls within permitted development rules, and these rules apply to your property. Generally, the following types of loft conversion will not require planning permission: A basic conversion of your existing loft into a habitable room (e.g. bedroom), perhaps inserting skylights. Note… Read more »
