Planning Permission in Sidcup

Planning Permission in Sidcup

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise 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 don't plan to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in certain areas by councils, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake 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 neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to conform to all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to work with 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 detailing 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 line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.