The Planning Permission system in the UK is designed to make sure that people can’t just make whatever alterations they want to their properties. It’s all about controlling development, and making sure that construction is appropriate. However, there has to be a balance. The current planning system allows for minor changes to be made to your house without seeking permission, but what sorts of things does this cover?
Internal Remodelling
Planning permission only applies to how your house looks from the outside. You don’t need to apply for planning if you’re not adding anything onto the shape of your house. You’re free to knock down walls, remove doors, move the position of the bathroom, get a new kitchen fitted and so on. Building Control inspectors might be interested in structural work which you’re doing to your home though, so don’t start knocking walls down without knowing exactly what you’re doing.
Converting the Garage
You won’t need planning permission to change the use of an internal garage or any other building which is attached to your house. This is again because you aren’t altering the footprint of your house. If you are converting a garage to living space you’ll need to involve Building Control to make sure your new space has proper insulation and ventilation.
Rooflights
In most cases, you don’t need planning permission to bring extra light into your home with the addition of Velux style windows or other rooflights, as long as they don’t protrude more than 15cm from the surface of the roof. If you’re in a conservation area, or a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you will need to go through planning before putting in extra windows.
Loft Conversion
Many loft conversions don’t need planning permission as under permitted development rules, lofts under a capacity of 40 cubic metres can be converted without going through the planning process. You’ll need to take account of the size of the dormer windows though, and make sure work comes up to the relevant building standards. It’s usually best to work with and experienced contractor who is well-versed in permitted development rules.
Adding an Outbuilding
Small external buildings in your garden are usually permitted without going through planning. The new building must be behind the original house and depending on the position, must fall under certain size limits. These limits are fairly generous though, and allow you to add a substantial summer house or home office in most gardens.
Decking and Swimming Pools
You won’t need permission to lay decking in your garden either, assuming the total height of the decking platform is under 300mm. You can even build a swimming pool under permitted development rules, assuming it doesn’t take up more than 50% of your garden space.
We know that planning can be complex. The best advice is to give your local planning office a call if you have a query. There’s usually a duty officer on duty in office hours which can give advice on any project you’re considering.
