Planning Permission
For domestic properties, planning consent applies to changes in the appearance or use of buildings such as a conversion of a house into flats, or an extension to a house. Don't confuse planning with Building Regulations which are entirely separate. Planning can be one of the most testing hurdles to clear when thinking about making changes to your home and needs to be given serious consideration from the start. It might be possible that your project can be carried out within permitted development.
Will I automatically be given planning permission if someone else in my street has carried out the same renovation or extension?
A common misconception is that because other houses in the street have similar extensions, this will automatically mean that yours will be allowed. This is not always the case as planning policies change over time. Your architect will be able to give you advice relating to current planning policy.
Permitted Development
For smaller extensions or alterations, your proposals may fall within your Permitted Development Rights which means that planning permission will not be necessary. There are limits on height, volume (in cubic meters) etc. that your design proposals need to be within for permitted development to apply. If your project is eligible, we would recommend that you apply for a Certificate of Lawful Development to confirm this. The application needs to be supported by suitable drawings and calculations. An architect can of course help you with this.
How long will it take to get planning permission?
The complete planning permission process usually takes 2 - 3 months. The design process will typically take around 2 weeks, planning permission can take 6 - 8 weeks. After that, building regulations approval will take another 2 weeks to complete.
