Planning Permission in South Ockendon
Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to 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 do not intend to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in certain areas by local authorities, especially 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 require planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to comply with all building regulations related 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 generally a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up plans and 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 road. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.