Joslyn Constructions Limited employs a team of kitchen extension and loft conversion
specialists. We handle every aspect of the design and build process, including technical
guidance and applications for planning permission.
Permission for extending a residential property is provided by the local authority in
which the property resides. There are two different ways in which approval can be
sought, these are Planning Permission and Permitted Development. The appropriate type of
permission will depend on the type of development that you wish to carry out, and the
type of property which you intend to carry out the works to. Below is a brief outline of
the differences between the two types of permission:
Planning and Permitted Development for Extensions
What is Permitted Development?
The term ‘permitted development’ describes a set of rights that entitles
homeowners to extend their properties in certain ways (e.g. kitchen
extensions and loft extensions) without applying for planning permission. In
the United Kingdom, all houses (excluding flats) have permitted development
rights. The only exceptions are houses that are either listed or located in
conservation areas. Permitted development also does not apply to leasehold
properties.
Providing that the scope of the extension meets the property’s specific
criteria, owners are guaranteed approval for their extension. The below
table shows the requirements for permitted development rights, based on the
type of property.
Permitted Development for Extensions by Property Type
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What is Prior Approval?Prior Approval was a temporary scheme introduced by the Government in 2013, which doubled the depth that properties can be extended under Permitted Development. The scheme stipulates that approval for extensions and conversions can be gained providing that no immediate neighbours object to the proposal. If the owners of any neighbouring properties object to the proposal, the council will determine the application using a criteria that is similar to obtaining Planning Permission.
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Planning Permission for ExtensionsHouseholder planning permission is required for conversions and extensions that fall outside of the boundaries for permitted development. This will require an application to the local authority, who will then determine whether approval is granted.
While there are numerous factors in assessing a planning application, the key considerations will be the local authority’s planning policy and the local planning precedent. These can vary significantly across different boroughs and each application is decided on its own merits.
We will advise you on what we think is attainable, based on our experience within the local area. That being said, the planning permission process is rarely black and white. Therefore, we commit to working with local authorities to find the best solutions for all of our customers. -
Party Wall Agreement for Loft Conversions and Extensions
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Thames WaterIf you are carrying out excavation work within 3 metres of a public sewer then you will require a Thames Water Build Over Agreement. This involves submitting the plans to Thames Water so that they can check the proposed Constructions is not going to have any adverse effect on the drain. Joslyn Constructions Limited will handle the application on your behalf, but you will be responsible for Thames Water’s fee if a Build Over Agreement is required. We will carry out a drainage survey at your property, and will advise as to whether the existing drainage has any implications on the build. This will be done in advance of the work where access to the drains is available. If the drainage on your land only services your property, then the drains are considered to be private and no Build Over agreement will be required.