Planning Permission in Torpoint
Planning permission is a system whereby 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 don't plan to enlarge the structure of your house. Garage conversions tend to be 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, especially in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're considering undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You must comply with all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to utilise an architect to draft technical drawings 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. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.