Planning Permission in Ilford

Planning Permission in Ilford

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge 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 removed in certain areas by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending on 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 are required to abide by all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draft plans 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 considered from the start of the project, it is much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.