If you’re ready for a home makeover but don’t want to apply for planning permission for anything too big, here’s a round-up of suggestions that don’t need planning approval. All property experts including Sittingbourne letting agents agree that even minor property makeovers can create a huge impact. You can get your toolbox ready for these home improvements ideas, which do not require planning permission. A lot of us don’t want to assume the cost of applying for planning permission and get it wrong. That can be expensive and add an unnecessary delay to your project. This guide is here to show you what large projects will never need planning permission. These are five simple home improvements that don’t require planning. If you feel like it might be time for a makeover or you just love DIY projects, then check out these ideas – there’s one for everyone!
1. New windows and doors
If you are planning to replace the doors and windows of your house, then there is no cause for alarm; you do not need any planning permission. The only rule that you need to comply with is not to alter the external appearance of your house. The only exception is listed buildings where alterations can be made as long as they do not change the external appearance of the building.
2. Add a ground-floor rear or side extension
You can extend your home as long as it does not exceed 50% of the land around your home or extend it by more than three meters for a semi-detached or terraced house and four meters for a detached house. The roof pitch should also match the roof of your home, and it must have only materials that are similar to those used in the construction of your home.
3. Convert your loft
Converting your loft has become a bit of a trend these days as it is one of the most cost-effective ways to add living space to your home. However, this doesn’t mean that you should dive into it without doing your research. Before you get started with converting your loft, make sure that your loft is suitable for conversion as there are certain requirements, such as the minimum head height and floor area. If you are unsure about whether or not your loft is suitable for conversion, ask an expert for their advice. A loft conversion is a cost-effective way to increase the size of your property – but only if you already have sufficient headroom. If you don’t, then converting your loft is unlikely to be an option. You won’t normally need planning permission for a loft conversion unless it involves a change of roof shape or an alteration that protrudes beyond the existing roof space. If you are looking at a full loft conversion, then there will most likely be building regulations involved in the process too.
4. Repurpose your garage
Many people use their garage for storage. In fact, many garages have so much stuff in them that you cannot even park a car inside. However, with a little bit of work, you can turn it from storage into a living space. A conservatory, office or utility room all make good additions to any house and will increase the value of the property.
5. Change your front door
A new front door is the most popular improvement homeowners make, and it is easy to see why. It creates a great first impression when people visit and it increases curb appeal too. You can also choose from many different colours to create the right look for your home.
6. Attach a lean-to conservatory
In the UK; if your conservatory is less than 3m high and doesn’t extend more than 4m from the house, it may not require planning permission. It’s worth checking with your local authority. Conservatories are usually only used in warmer months due to poor insulation, but they do provide extra living or storage space and make your home look instantly more attractive. If you want to increase the size of your house but do not have the budget, then a lean-to conservatory is a great option. It is relatively cheap, simple, and can be installed quickly. This type of conservatory is called a lean-to because it leans against another structure, usually the wall of your home. This means that it is not free-standing and has no foundations. As the lean-to conservatory does not require planning permission or building regulations approval, it is considered to be exempt from these requirements. The lean-to conservatory is the most basic of all the styles and is usually an extension to the kitchen or dining room. It can be built from brick to match your existing home or from a lightweight material, such as uPVC.
