Planning Permission in Loughborough
Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in some areas by councils, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth verifying 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. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to comply with all building regulations corresponding 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 generally 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. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.