Planning Permission in Leatherhead
Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain areas by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You must conform to all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to work with an architect to draft plans and also to 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.