Planning Permission in Lowestoft

Planning Permission in Lowestoft

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of your home. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain locations by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority.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 live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to abide by all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draft technical drawings and 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. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.