Planning Permission in Richmond

Planning Permission in Richmond

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise 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 plan to expand the structure of your house. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a few regions by local authorities, usually in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live 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 must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to abide by all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to work with an architect to draft technical drawings also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will likely still need to submit plans detailing 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 majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.