We are delighted to present our third article published in the newspaper "La Notizia." You can find it at the following link: http://smphotonewsagency.com/Images/SMLaNotiziaLondraXX3web.pdf on page 17. The original article is in Italian, and below is the translated version in English.

WHEN DO YOU NEED PERMITS FOR HOME IMPROVEMENTS?

When undertaking home improvements, certain modifications can be made under permitted development rights, which do not require approval, while others necessitate a planning application to your local authority. Different regulations apply to various types of renovations and building extensions.

For each home renovation project, you must comply with building regulations and secure specialized renovation insurance to protect your home during the construction.

Generally, a building permit is required if:

  • The extension of your building will cover at least half of the land area surrounding your home.
  • You plan to increase the overall height of the building.
  • You extend to the side of a property by more than half the width of your home.
  • You use construction materials different from those of the existing house.
  • You extend towards a road or build a balcony.
  • Your home is listed or located in a protected area.

However, some extensions can be constructed under permitted development rights, provided certain rules are adhered to, such as:

  • For single-story extensions, the rear walls must not extend more than 8 meters for a detached house or 6 meters for a semi-detached or terraced house, and must not exceed 4 meters in height at the ridge and eaves, with ridge heights not surpassing those of the existing property.
  • For two-story extensions, the rear walls must not extend more than 3 meters and must be at least 7 meters from the rear boundary.
  • Building materials must match those of the existing property.

However, the overall size of the extension, its location relative to your house, and the type of windows you intend to install can affect whether it qualifies under permitted development rights.

External Renovations Minor external modifications to your property, such as adding a skylight or painting walls, are typically allowed under building rights, unless the property is a historic building or located in a designated national park where stricter rules apply.

Replacing windows and doors usually does not require a building permit, unless the property is in a protected area or a historic building, in which case historic building consent is necessary. Your local authority can assist with this process.

Outbuildings such as garages, sheds, greenhouses, or garden offices generally fall under permitted development rights, provided the structure does not exceed 4 meters in height and occupies less than half of the land around the original property. As always, this may vary if the property is historic or in a protected area, so consult your local planning department to ensure compliance.

Internal Renovations Most internal renovations, including loft conversions, bathrooms, kitchens, rewiring, or garage conversions, do not typically require a building permit.

However, certain rules must be observed. For example, if you need to increase the height of a roof for a loft conversion, a building permit is necessary. Additionally, listed buildings may require listed building consent for any internal alterations.

For unconventional renovation projects with unique modifications, a pre-application consultation is recommended. Although this incurs an additional cost, it provides an opportunity to address potential issues in advance, increasing the likelihood of obtaining planning permission.

Keeping your neighbors informed and accommodating their concerns can minimize opposition to your application. With the government’s new “street vote” concept, this could be more critical than ever.

Restrictions and Limits It is important to note that obtaining a building permit can be more challenging in certain cases. Living in a historic building, an area of outstanding natural beauty, a national park, or a protected area complicates the permitting process. Additionally, some properties are bound by restrictive covenants.

These are legal agreements listed in the property deed that dictate land use. They can restrict building extensions, property use changes, landscaping, etc., to maintain local area standards. If your property is subject to a covenant, it must be addressed before applying for a building permit.

Upon obtaining the building permit, securing renovation insurance is crucial to cover your home throughout the construction process.

Natalia Giacomino ARB, Chartered Member of RIBA

‍