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If, like many UK homeowners, you have your sights set on improving your property during 2023, navigating the complicated world of planning permission is likely to be a concern if your upgrades go beyond painting and decorating.
Obtaining planning permission is a requirement across a wide range of home improvement projects, with extensions, conversions and new structures generally requiring consent from your local authority by law. There are however some improvements you can make without planning.
Here we take a closer look at what you can (and can’t) do without planning permission around your home.
Contrary to popular belief, not all home extensions require planning permission. Under updated permitted development rights, detached properties can extend by up to 8 metres (single storey) or 3 metres (double storey) without planning permission providing the extension does not exceed a maximum height limit or go too close to a rear boundary.
To go ahead without planning permission, the extension should not take up more than half of your existing garden.
If you’re looking to embrace the open plan vibe within your home, there’s more great news. You do not need planning permission to remove internal walls. You will however require approval from Building Regulations.
Converting an existing space, such as your garage or loft, is another project that falls under permitted developments in most respects and therefore does not require planning permission. If the garage you are looking to convert into living space is detached however, you may need to apply for planning permission to confirm its change of use.
A loft conversion is a little different. Providing that any dormer windows you are installing to increase head height do not sit higher than your existing roof, you will not need planning permission. If the conversion of your loft sees your living space increase by more than 40m³, you will need to apply for planning permission.
For the construction of larger extensions, buildings or outbuildings, you will require planning permission, especially if your home is listed and/or in a conservation area. The creation of a new dwelling – whether that involves self-building a home or the division of an existing property – is also likely to need planning permission.
Getting advice and support from an experienced builder will ensure you can negotiate the planning process with ease. Find a local builder today to get started.