Planning Permission in Gillingham

Planning Permission in Gillingham

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a number of areas by councils, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are preparing 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 neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to comply with all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to utilise 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.