Planning Permission in Sutton Coldfield

Planning Permission in Sutton Coldfield

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in some areas by local authorities, usually in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require 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 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 will 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 much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.