Planning Permission in Horsham

Planning Permission in Horsham

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will mostly not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a few areas by local authorities, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, 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 aspects of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is generally a good idea to use an architect to draft technical drawings and also 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 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.