What Size Extension Can I Build Without Planning Permission?
As a London homeowner, you may be looking to extend your property to gain more living space or add value to your home. However, before you jump into extending your property, it is essential to know the planning permission rules and regulations.
One of the most common questions asked by homeowners looking to extend their property is, “”what size extension can I build without planning permission?””
Well, the answer is not as straightforward as you may think. The size of an extension you can build without planning permission depends on various factors, including the type of property you own and the location of your property.
Permitted Development Rights
In England, homeowners have permitted development rights, which means you can carry out certain types of works on your property without applying for planning permission. However, there are limits to what you can build under permitted development rights.
For a start, permitted development rights only apply to houses and not flats. They also have specific height and size restrictions. In terms of height, single-storey extensions must not exceed four metres in height and must not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than three metres for an attached house and four metres for a detached house.
When it comes to the size of the extension, the total area of your single-storey extension must not exceed 50% of the total area of land around the original house. The original house refers to the property as it was built or as it stood on July 1, 1948, if it was built before that date.
Other Considerations
If your proposed extension exceeds any of the permitted development rights limits, you will need to apply for planning permission. Moreover, other factors that might affect your extension plans include:
- The location of the property, such as whether it is in a conservation area or on a listed building
- Whether the extension is at the front of the property, which is generally not allowed under permitted development rights
- The materials used to construct the extension
- The impact the extension will have on your neighbours
Conclusion
In summary, the size of the extension you can build without planning permission depends on various factors. Still, generally, a single-storey extension must not exceed four metres in height and must not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than three metres for an attached house and four metres for a detached house.
However, it is always advisable to seek professional advice from a reputable estate agent, architect or planning consultant before embarking on any extension plans to ensure they are within the permitted development rules and regulations.
2023-05-04 09:24:36
