Planning Permission in Leamington Spa

Planning Permission in Leamington Spa

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your home. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a few areas by councils, especially in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're preparing to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to comply with all building regulations related 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 generally a good idea to use an architect to draw up 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 considered from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.