Planning Permission in Caersws
Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a number of areas by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to abide by all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to utilise an architect to draft technical drawings and approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will likely still need to submit plans detailing 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 majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.
