The rules governing building work can appear complicated and the process for applying for permission often looks daunting. These questions are the most frequently asked, and we have attempted to briefly explain the routes you can take to alter and extend residential property in the UK.
It is important to note that the answers we give are for guidance only. You should always seek professional advice before making any substantial alterations or additions to your property.
Permitted development rights allow you to extend and modify a building without needing to apply for planning permission. However very specific conditions must be met to fall within this.
A loft conversion falls under permitted development unless your building is a flat, or you are situated in a conservation area.
For terraced properties, the conversion is permitted if the dormer is under 40 cubic metres.
For semi-detached properties, the conversion is permitted if the volume of space is under 50 cubic metres.
For detached properties, the conversion is permitted if the addition is less than 50 cubic metres.
If you are looking for an architect in Ealing or London, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us at GR Architecture.
There are three ways to build a single storey extensions:
Permitted development – This allows 3m for terraced and semi-detached properties and 4m for detached properties. The maximum height must not exceed 4m.
Under householder planning permission – Broadly speaking, properties are allowed to extend 3.65m depending on certain councils.
Prior approval – This is for larger home extensions. Terraced and semi-detached properties can apply for a 6m extension within the blueprints of a property. For a detached property it can be 8m.
It is important to note that with prior approval the council will refuse applications if neighbours object to extensions or if the house has a rear elevation bay.
These types of extensions will need householder planning permission. Broadly speaking, 3m is allowed and cannot block the neighbours light. Extensions of more than one storey cannot extend beyond the rear wall by more than 3 metres.
All rear double storey extensions will require householder planning permission.
Single storey side extensions cannot exceed 4m in height and can only be up to half of the width of the original house.
Please don't hesitate to get in touch with us at GR Architecture, if you are looking for an architect in Ealing or London.
With double storey side extensions, the roof pitch must match the existing house as far as possible. Any upper floor window located in a side elevation must be obscure glazed and non-opening.
All side extensions of more than one storey will require householder planning permission.
It is important to note that double storey side extensions need to be set back by 1m in front elevation. Some councils will also require a 2m gap between properties with a double storey extension, so as not to create a terraced effect.
Porches that measure 3m square are within permitted development. Anything larger than this would require an application for householder permission. The maximum height allowed for a porch is 3m.
If you are located in Ealing or North London and would like to speak to an architectural designer, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us at GR Architecture.