You can now have that extension WITHOUT planning permission

Permitted Development rights have changed in England now allowing you to build that much dreamed of extension without requiring planning permission providing you adhere to certain guidelines relating to the size and appearance. This was initially brought in as a temporary measure in 2014 but the Government has made it permanent.

So what does Permitted Development mean for you and what are the rules? Let us help you…

.Side Extensions: This extension can only be single storey and be no greater than half the width of the original house and a maximum of height of 4 metres. If the extension is within 2m of a boundary, maximum eaves height should be no higher than 3m to be permitted development.

Rear Extensions: You can now add a single storey extension up to 8 metres from the original rear wall of a detached property (previously 4 metres), or 6 metres for all other houses such as semi detached or terraced properties (previously 3 metres) and be no higher than 4 metres.

Double storey extension: A 2 storey rear extension is possible although anything you build must not extend beyond the back wall of the original house by more than 2 metres or be within 7 metres of any boundary opposite the rear wall.

Loft Conversion: For this to be within Permitted Development Rights loft space must not exceed 40 cubic metres for terraced houses and 50 metres for detached or semi detached properties.

Original House in planning terms means the property as it was first built or as it stood as at 1st July 1948

Please bare in mind that even if your extension is completed under Permitted Development, you will still be required to meet building regulations. Also in some areas such as conservation, national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty and world heritage sites Permitted Development Rights can be removed, so make sure your check. We would also recommend a Lawful Development Certificate, so should you decide to sell your property you have proof that the work was permitted.