Planning Permission in Leiston

Planning Permission in Leiston

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, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in some locations by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you're planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, 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 parts of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is generally 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. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.