Planning Permission in Jarrow
Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, as 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 protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in some regions by local authorities, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are 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 must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to adhere to all building regulations corresponding 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 generally a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up plans and 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 line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.