Do I need planning permission for a garden room? Garden rooms or buildings do not require planning permission, if they fall within permitted development guidelines. To classify as an ‘outbuilding’ under permitted development rules, it must not contain sleeping accommodation and must be single storey with a maximum eaves height of 2.5m. There are a few… Read more »
Posts Categorized: Legal Considerations
Building regs considerations – can I make my entire ground floor open plan?
Open stairways to living areas – fire safety (Part B) considerations If you want your ground floor to be totally open plan, there are key consideration in terms of Building Regulations are the associated fire safety issues. Part B of the Approved Documents gives guidance on how to meet the Building Regulations in England and… Read more »
Extending upwards – new permitted development rules for two storey extensions
Can I add two storeys to a house without planning permission? Thanks to a planning amendment in 2020, it is now possible to extend upwards, even adding a double storey extension to your home, using the prior approval route. However, this permitted development right is not applicable to all properties. Design above by Simon,… Read more »
Do I need a contract with my builder for a home extension or renovation project?
For home building and renovation projects it’s always worthwhile taking the time to find a great builder. There are a few effective websites to find local tradesmen like “My Builder” and “Rated People” to get you some quotations, but there are a few pointers to consider before shaking hands with anyone to undertake your home extension or renovation project…. Read more »
Do you need planning permission for a side return extension?
Q: Do you need planning permission for a side return extension? Very possibly not! This is such a common project in UK towns and cities, for good reason. Many Victorian terraces have this strip of garden space that is so often dark and under-used. Claiming this space back internally can transform a kitchen or living space, without… Read more »
Guide to costs and planning permission for a two storey extension
Two storey extension above by Daniel, an architect on Design for Me. View his full profile and shortlist him for your project here A two storey extension can be a cost effective way of gaining maximum floorspace for your property, without eating too much into your garden. It will also mean that your house… Read more »
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 »
Stairs and staircases – rules for building regulations
Stairs and Staircases – Building Regulations – Part K Any building works to homes requires compliance with the building regulations and the Approved Documents set out guidance on how to achieve this. Part K of the Approved Documents, titled ‘Protection from falling, collision and impact’ covers stairs and staircases. How steep can stairs… Read more »
4 Year Rule – Planning Permission
What is the 4 year rule – planning permission? If your property does not have the required planning permission, there are four years in which your local council can take enforcement action to remedy the breach. The four years start from when the development is substantially complete. What is the 10 year rule? You… Read more »
