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Building an extension is a popular way to increase the amount of space in your home without the upheaval of moving house, however, before you get started, it’s important to find out if you need planning permission.
Yes, planning permission is usually required for an extension in the UK. It’s essential to check with your local council for specific regulation.
In the UK, most home extensions will not require planning permission if they fall within certain limits and conditions. These are set by the government in order to allow homeowners to make reasonable improvements and changes to their property without having to go through the lengthy and expensive process of applying for planning permission.
You may require planning permission if any of the following criteria are met:
- If the extension protrudes further than 3 metres from the original property.
- If the extension exceeds the permitted height or size (4 metres height & 3 metres depth).
- If the extension is too close to a neighbouring property (within 2 metres).
- If the extension creates a new roofline that alters the appearance of the property.
- If the extension requires demolition of an existing structure.
- If the property is in a conservation area
- If the property is a listed building
What is the permitted height and size for an extension?
The permitted height and size of an extension will depend on the type of the existing property.
Generally speaking, The permitted height for an extension is usually 4 metres, or 3 metres if you live in a terraced house. The maximum depth of a single-storey rear extension is usually 3 metres.
You may be able to build a larger extension under what’s called a ‘permitted development right’. This allows you to build an extension without planning permission, provided it meets certain criteria. For example, the extension must not be more than half the width of your house and it mustn’t extend beyond the back wall by more than 3 metres.
How close can an extension be to a neighbour?
The distance an extension can be from a neighbour’s property is restricted by law. Your extension must be at least 2 metres from your neighbours’ boundary, or 1 metre, if its height, is less than 4 metres.
What is the permitted distance an extension can protrude from a property?
An extension cannot protrude more than 3 metres from the original property. If you want to build an extension that goes beyond this, you will need planning permission.
What is the permitted development right?
The permitted development right is a government rule that allows homeowners to build extensions without having to apply for planning permission. To be eligible, your extension must meet certain criteria.
see more details on the government’s website:
For more information, please see the government’s Planning Portal website:
How much does it cost to get planning permission?
The cost of getting planning permission varies depending on the size and scope of your project. For a small extension, you may only have to pay a few hundred pounds. For a larger project, the costs can run into the thousands.
How long does it take to get planning permission?
The amount of time it takes to get planning permission varies depending on the size and complexity of your project. For a small extension, you may only have to wait a few weeks. For a larger project, it could take several months.
How to check if the extension requires planning permission?
There are some circumstances in which you will need to apply for planning permission, even if your extension falls within the government’s limits, so it’s always recommended to contact your local council for clarification.
You should also check with your local council to see if there are any other restrictions or conditions that apply to your extension.
For more information, please see the government’s Planning Portal website:
https://www.gov.uk/planning-permission-england-wales
How to get started with a new extension?
Once you have planning permission, you need to start thinking about the practicalities of your extension. This includes things like building regulations, choosing a builder, and getting quotes.
Once you have had clarification that planning permission is not required, or you have success in your application, you can start to think about the practicalities of the build.
This includes things like building regulations, choosing a builder, and getting quotes.
Building regulations are a set of standards that all new build houses and extensions must meet. These cover things like electrics, plumbing, and structural integrity. You will need to meet these regulations in order to get final sign-off from your local council.
Choosing a builder can be tricky, as there are so many to choose from. It’s important to do your research and ask for referrals from friends and family. It’s also a good idea to get quotes from several builders before making a decision.
How to get a quote for windows, Doors, Roofs?
most extensions will need windows, doors, and a roof to be manufactured specifically for your size requirements.
Astraframe is a uPVC manufacturer based in Norfolk that supplies custom-sized Windows, Doors, Conservatories, and more.
please email your requirements for a free no-obligation quote.
