Planning Permission in Brentford

Planning Permission in Brentford

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a number of locations by local authorities, usually in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you are considering undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You must conform to all building regulations relevant 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 generally a good idea to work with an architect to draw up plans 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 considered from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.