Do You Actually Need Planning Permission?

Planning permission is the part of a project most homeowners dread, and it is also the part most often misunderstood. In practice, a good proportion of the extensions and loft conversions we manage never need a full planning application at all.

Permitted development rights allow many single-storey rear extensions, loft conversions and outbuildings to proceed without a formal application, provided they stay within defined limits on height, depth and materials. The limits differ depending on whether your property is detached, semi-detached or terraced.

There are important exceptions. Listed buildings, conservation areas and properties where permitted development rights have previously been removed will almost always need an application. Flats and maisonettes are excluded entirely.

The safest route is a Lawful Development Certificate, which is a formal confirmation from the council that your project does not require permission. We handle these as standard as part of our architectural service, and it is worth having on file when you come to sell.