Planning Permission in Westcliff-on-sea

Planning Permission in Westcliff-on-sea

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a few regions by local authorities, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're thinking about 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 must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to comply with all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is generally a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up 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 taken into account from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.