Planning Permission in Isle Of Harris
Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of your home. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a number of regions by councils, usually in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you're intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You must abide by all building regulations relevant 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 usually a good idea to work with an architect to draw up plans also to 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 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.
