House Extensions Without Planning Permission

House Extensions Without Planning Permission: A Comprehensive Guide

### Introduction Extending your home can be an exciting way to add space and value to your property. However, navigating the world of planning permission can be a daunting task. In certain circumstances, you may be able to extend your house without planning permission, provided you meet certain criteria. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to house extensions without planning permission. ### When Do You Need Planning Permission? Generally, planning permission is required for any structural changes or extensions to your property. This includes adding or altering an extension, adding a conservatory, or making significant changes to the roofline or windows. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. ### Permitted Developments Permitted developments are certain types of building works that do not require planning permission. These include: - Single-storey extensions of up to 4 meters in depth for detached houses and 3 meters for semi-detached and terraced houses. - Two-storey extensions of up to 3 meters in depth at the rear of the house. - Roof extensions, including loft conversions, dormers, and mansard roofs, provided they do not exceed certain height and volume limits. - Certain types of porches, verandas, and balconies. Please note that these are just general guidelines, and there may be additional restrictions or conditions that apply in your area. It's always advisable to check with your local planning authority before starting any building work. ### Exemptions and Prior Approval In some cases, you may be able to extend your house without planning permission if you meet certain criteria. These are known as exemptions or prior approval.

Exemptions:

- Extensions that are less than 2 meters in depth and do not exceed the height of the existing roof. - Conservatories that are less than 30 square meters in floor area and are located at the rear of the house. - Porches that are less than 3 square meters in floor area and do not project more than 3 meters from the front of the house.

Prior Approval:

- Single-storey extensions of up to 8 meters in depth for detached houses and 6 meters for semi-detached and terraced houses. - Two-storey extensions of up to 4 meters in depth at the rear of the house. For prior approval, you will need to submit a detailed plan of your proposed extension to your local planning authority. They will then assess the proposal and decide whether to grant prior approval. ### Benefits of Extending Your House Without Planning Permission There are several benefits to extending your house without planning permission: -

Cost-effective:

Obtaining planning permission can be a time-consuming and expensive process. By avoiding this step, you can save money on fees and professional assistance. -

Time-saving:

The planning permission process can take several weeks or even months. By extending your house without planning permission, you can avoid these delays and start building sooner. -

Flexibility:

You have more freedom to design your extension as you wish without having to adhere to strict planning regulations. ### Drawbacks of Extending Your House Without Planning Permission There are also some drawbacks to extending your house without planning permission: -

Legal consequences:

If you build an extension without planning permission and it is discovered by the local authority, you may face enforcement action, including fines or an order to remove the extension. -

Reduced property value:

An unauthorized extension can negatively impact the value of your property, making it more difficult to sell or remortgage. -

Difficulty in obtaining insurance:

Some insurance companies may refuse to cover unauthorized extensions, leaving you financially vulnerable in the event of damage or loss. ### Conclusion Before deciding to extend your house without planning permission, it's important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully. If you are unsure whether you need planning permission, it's always advisable to check with your local planning authority. They can provide you with guidance and advice on the specific requirements for your area. By following the proper procedures and obtaining the necessary approvals, you can ensure that your house extension is compliant with the law and does not negatively impact the value of your property.