Planning Permission in Totland Bay

Planning Permission in Totland Bay

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of your house. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a number of areas by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are considering undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to adhere to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to work with an architect to draft technical drawings also to 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.