Do you need Planning Permission For a Loft Conversion?
Permitted Development (PD)’ rights, allow you to extend a house without needing to apply for planning permission if specific limitations and conditions are met.
Basic constraints for permitted development:
Area: the area of side and rear extensions must be less than 50% of the total free area around the house
Appearance: the exterior appearance must blend in with the existing house and the neighborhood
Width: the width of side extensions must be less than 50% of the width of the existing house
Length: the max length of rear extensions is 6m for terraced or semi-detached houses, up to 8m for detached houses
Height: the height of single storey extensions must be less than 4m. For two-storey extensions, the height must not exceed the height of the existing house eaves. If the distance to the boundary is less than 2m, only single-story extensions are allowed under permitted development.
Balconies and terraces: they are never allowed within permitted development rights
Building Regulation Requirements for Extensions
Most extensions of properties require approval under the Building Regulations.
Basic regulations for extensions:
- Floor: Provide resistance to ground moisture and heat loss (thermal insulation)
- Foundations: All buildings should have adequate foundations
- Walls Below Ground Level The substructure (bricks or blocks and mortar) should be effective and be resistant to frost and resist damp through the walls
- Ventilation: Each new room in a house should have adequate ventilation for general health reasons
- Energy Efficiency: There are number of factors such as thermal insulations that need to meet the new standards.
Timescale
The length of time for a extentions does depend on what type of extension you are having. However, for a single storey rear extension it will on average take 8 to 10 weeks. However, this timescale can vary a little, for accurate timescale, it is best to get in touch with us.
Cost
The cost for a house extension in London can differ substantially depending on many factors. For example, the area and accessibility of the site is one factor. The nature of the soil can have an impact when new foundations are required. For an accurate estimate please contact us.
