Planning Permission in Hengoed
Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of your house. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in certain areas by local authorities, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You must conform to all building regulations relevant to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up plans 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 considered from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.
