Planning Permission in Langholm
Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a number of regions by local authorities, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're 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 are required to conform to all building regulations relevant to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to work with an architect to draw up technical drawings 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 considered from the start of the project, it is much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.
