Home improvement ideas where no planning permission is required

 

Before undertaking any home improvement work on your property, one of the first things you must do is check whether your refurbishment work requires planning permission. Under the terms of permitted development (PD) you can carry out projects without needing planning permission, so it is important to check whether this applies to you.

The concept of PD allows for minor improvements to be carried out on a property, preventing the planning system from becoming overcrowded with applications. Renovation work typically covered by PD includes:

• Loft conversion
• Minor extensions to a property
• Decking
• Gates, wall and fences

This article will serve to explain a few home improvement ideas where no planning permission is required so you can start to create your dream home!

1. Moving windows and doors

It is important to be clear on the legalities of replacing or adding new windows in the original walls of your home to ensure you take the correct action. You will not normally need planning permission to carry out such a task, but remember to check the conditions attached to the original permission as they may state otherwise. Other things to take into consideration when moving windows and doors in your home include:

• Providing your property isn’t listed, double glazing can be installed under the requirements of PD
• You must adhere to Building Regulations guidance when working with new/bigger window or door designs
• Bay windows are classed as extensions so may need planning permission
• If new windows are in an upper-floor side elevation they must be glazed with glass which is level 4 or 5 obscurity and either non opening or more than 1.7m above floor level

2. Rooflights & skylights

 

Installing roof lights or skylights in your property will not typically need you to apply for planning permission, as long as you adhere to the following:

• They do not extend out more than 150mm beyond the plane of the roof slope
• They are not placed any higher than the highest part of the roof
• If they are in side elevation roof slope they must be glazed with glass which is level 4 or 5 obscurity and either non opening or more than 1.7m above floor level

Remember: if you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any major internal or external refurbishment work.

3. Loft conversions

If you are looking to add extra space to your home but can’t afford the hefty cost of moving house, loft conversions are the perfect solution and may not require planning permission. For a loft conversion to be considered PD,  a list of limitations must be addressed, including:

• No extension to be higher than the highest part of the roof
• The roof enlargement cannot overhang the outer face of the wall of the original house
• A volume allowance of 40 cubic metres additional roof space is applied to terraced houses and 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses
• Side-facing windows to be obscure-glazed and any opening must be 1.7m above the floor

Remember: in cases where the roof space is extended or altered (exceeding specified regulations), permission is required.

When undertaking any renovation or home improvement work on your property, it is essential to remain clued up on the legalities and regulations in place so the project is completed correctly. Our experts at ProDem carry out thorough premium quality demolition services which adhere to the strictest guidelines for guaranteed safety and high levels of care. Our accredited team are highly trained in all aspects of safe and effective demolition and remain professional at all times, making us a company you can trust. Simply get in touch with our friendly team today for further information.