Planning Permission in Wadhurst

Planning Permission in Wadhurst

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in some locations by councils, particularly in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to adhere to all building regulations related 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 work with an architect to draft plans 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 taken into account from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.