Planning Permission in Bushey
Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain locations by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you are thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You must comply with all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to use an architect to draft technical drawings and also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will likely still need to submit plans describing the change of use of the garage to your local authority. If planning permission is taken into account from the start of the project, it is much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.
