Planning permission for a conversion

What you need to know when getting permission for a conversion, by Annabel Foley

 

It is your responsibility to find out if you need planning permission. Ideally, it should be granted before any work begins. If you have any queries, you should ask the planning department of your local council. For information about planning law, you can also try your local library. 

The main responsibility for granting permission lies with your local authority. If you need legal advice, the local Citizens Advice Bureau or a solicitor may be able to help.Changing the existing use of a building into a residential home is a big job.

Changing the existing use of a building into a residential home is a big job. According to Anna Sweetman, spokesperson for the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), ‘Your project may need building regulations approval as well as planning permission.' It's therefore crucial to consult a local authority planning officer at an early stage. According to Anna, all applications are different and the rules are complex, so it's worth employing a chartered surveyor to draw up and submit plans, obtain approvals and oversee the project on your behalf.

Do your sums before buying a property. ‘Work out the cost of repairs on top of the initial outlay before you buy a place to renovate,' explains Anna. ‘Then decide whether it's worth doing up.' Make sure your architect looks at local plans for changes of use. The structural and physical condition of the building is also key to success. Some planning policies refuse permission if the building is not sound.