Planning Permission in Fulham

Planning Permission in Fulham

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually 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, especially in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to conform to all building regulations related 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 work with an architect to draft technical drawings and to 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.