Planning Permission in Barnehurst

Planning Permission in Barnehurst

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not intend to enlarge the structure of your home. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a number of areas by local authorities, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to abide by all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draft technical drawings and approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll likely still need to submit plans describing 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.