Planning Permission in Esher

Planning Permission in Esher

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in some areas by councils, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're preparing to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You must abide by all building regulations pertaining 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 generally a good idea to use an architect to draft plans and approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.