Planning Permission in Bexleyheath
Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand the structure of your house. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which protect 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 thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require 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 parts of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to work with an architect to draw up technical drawings and to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll likely still need to submit plans detailing the change of use of the garage to your local authority. If planning permission is considered 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.
