Planning Permission in Basildon

Planning Permission in Basildon

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a few regions by councils, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You must abide by all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draw up technical drawings and approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will 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. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.