FAQ about planning permissions and building regulations Part 2

In the previous blog we took you through planning permissions and what they entail, or why you might need them. To continue building our comprehensive FAQ on planning permissions and building regulations it’s time to address the issues involved in more detail.

We are often asked at Modern Attics about whether or not a person needs permission to build an extension to their own house. In terms of building regulation approval, the answer is yes, unless the extension is a garage or conservatory within certain restrictions.

Planning permissions can be required under the following circumstances:

For single storey rear extensions

  • On a detached house, the extension extends beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than 4 metres.
  • For any other house, the extension extends beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than 3 metres.
  • The extension exceeds 4 metres in height.

For Rear Extensions Of More Than One-Storey

  • The extension extends beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than 3 metres.
  • The extension would be located within 7 metres of any boundary of the property opposite the rear wall of the house.

For Side Extensions

  • The extension exceeds 4 metres in height.
  • The extension has more than one-storey.
  • The extension has a width that is greater than half that of the original house.

In A Conservation Area Development Is Not Permitted If:

  • It would consist or include the cladding of any part of the exterior of the house with stone, artificial stone, pebble dash, render, timber, plastic or tiles.
  • The enlarged part of the house would extend beyond a wall forming a side elevation of the original house.
  • The enlarged part of the house would have more than one-storey high AND extend beyond the rear wall of the original house.

These developments are permitted subject to the following conditions:

  • The building materials for the external construction should be of similar appearance to those of the existing dwelling materials
  • The edge of the enlargement closest to the eaves of the original roof should not be less than 20cm from the eaves of the original roof.
  • Any windows inserted in the wall or roof slope forming a side elevation of the dwelling shall be obscured-glazed and non-opening

For more information on loft conversions and building extensions please contact Modern Attics for some free advice and a free quote.

This concludes are FAQ on planning permissions and building regulations. There is of course always more to be considered and discussed regarding this subject but there is simply too much to put into one blog. Perhaps in our next outing we can explore other areas related to this particular one.

In the meantime see our pages on planning permissions, building regulations, statutory consents and party walls.


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