Planning Permission in Coventry

Planning Permission in Coventry

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of your house. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a number of locations by councils, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are 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 need a Party Wall Agreement. You must adhere to all building regulations pertaining 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 often 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 detailing 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.