Householder Extensions
And certificates of lawfulness
If you want to extend your property, then often you do not need planning permission to do so. However, the rules and regulations of what you can and cannot do without planning permission are almost impenetrably complex. Furthermore, they are subject to constant change.
Extensions are likely to be the most expensive alteration to your home and can significantly enhance the value of your home. It is important, therefore, that all the correct processes are followed – this is particularly important if you sell your house in the future. Without the correct paperwork in place you may not be able to do so.
GRC Planning can offer a ‘one-stop’ process that will:
Extensions are likely to be the most expensive alteration to your home and can significantly enhance the value of your home. It is important, therefore, that all the correct processes are followed – this is particularly important if you sell your house in the future. Without the correct paperwork in place you may not be able to do so.
GRC Planning can offer a ‘one-stop’ process that will:
- Discuss with you your plans to extend or alter your property, suggesting ways of improving or enlarging the proposal without requiring planning permission. GRC Planning can then arrange for plans to be drawn up by a qualified Architectural Technician at very reasonable rates. These plans will form the basis of the Building Regulations approval necessary for you to commence building.
- Once the plans are agreed there will be a requirement to seek a Certificate of Lawfulness (CoL) from the Council to ensure they agree, in writing, that planning permission is not required. Sometimes, on the more modern housing estates the Council will have taken the ‘permitted development rights’ away which means an extension may require planning permission as a result. A CoL will confirm the Council’s position on this. The CoL is an essential requirement for any future house sale.
- Other consents may be required – under The Party Wall Act 1996 or because of a covenant on the legal Title of your home or land. GRC Planning can help you get the necessary consents.
- Finally, once all the consents are in place and Building Regulations approval is obtained GRC Planning can get quotes from reputable builders, experienced in building extensions, to enable your extension to be built to your specification.