Home Improvements That Would Require Planning Permission

There are lots of different ways that you can develop your residential property to make it more suited to your needs. Whether you choose to re-landscape the garden, build a new kitchen or convert your attic space, you can be confident that each improvement will add value to your house whilst making it increasingly fit for purpose.

It is important to remember however that some home improvement projects require planning permission. If you’re working on a new project, it is advisable to consult the government’s planning portal to find out about your obligations, where in general builds that change the footprint of your house or infringe upon protected areas will require formal permission.

Read on to find out more about the domestic renovation projects that require planning permission.

Significant Extensions

If you’re looking to extend your property in a major way, then you might have to submit your plans for approval. A significant extension is usually one where you’re increasing the volume of your property by 10% or more, where multi-storey extensions in particular will also require planning permission.

Change of Use

One development project that you may not realise requires planning permission is a change of use. Typically, this means that you’re converting a residential property into a commercial one, or vice versa. For instance, a new business could increase traffic and parking problems in the local area, where your planning application will need to address any such concerns.

Large Outbuildings

Small conservatories or garden sheds can usually be built without planning permission. It is only when your project is on a larger scale that this becomes necessary, particularly if your new structure is likely to take up more than half of your garden space. This could include annexes, outbuildings and other significant building projects.

Tall Structures

Additionally, you may also need to acquire planning permission if you decide to build a tall outdoor structure. If you’re replacing a wall or building a small fence then this is permissible, but walls over 2 metres, or those over 1 metre adjacent to a highway will require a formal planning approval.

Andrew Lee Property Lawyers: Expert Advice For Your Next Project

At Andrew Lee Property Lawyers, we assist both residential and commercial developers throughout their projects to ensure that all planning requirements and legal obligations are met.

Our expert property advice is industry specific and impartial, so you can rest assured that you’re moving in the right direction. Get in touch with us today to find out more about our property law services or to speak with a housing solicitor.