Planning Permission in Merton

Planning Permission in Merton

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of your house. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in some locations by councils, especially in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you are thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to adhere to all building regulations relevant to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements 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 approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll 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. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.