Planning Permission in Longfield

Planning Permission in Longfield

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a number of regions by councils, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You must conform to all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to work with an architect to draft plans 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.