If you want to extend your house, build an office in the garden or construct a new property, you will probably need planning permission. If you are adding an extension or a new outbuilding to your property, you must apply for planning permission if the project falls outside certain size and type limits.
Before you apply, you should learn how the planning system works. It's also important to be familiar with the various types of applications available and how they differ from each other.
What is Planning Permission?
Local council provide planning clearance to anyone who seek to construct a new building or make adjustments that are not authorised under the current planning system. A permit is usually required when building a new house or making significant changes to an existing one. Planning approval is issued or rejected in accordance with national planning legislation and the policy of local governments.
What are the Different Types of Planning Permission?
There are several types of planning permission, each best suited to certain projects and builds. They include:
Full planning permission
This type of planning permission allows you to build a project, but it is conditional on your providing full details of your design and proving that the building meets all demanded conditions.
Outline planning permission
This type of permission gives you a general idea of whether or not the council would approve your building project. You need to remember that this doesn't include any specifics regarding design, but it does offer "permission in principle".
Householder planning permission
This is simply a legal document given by the local council to allow you to make changes to an individual home.
What is the cost of planning permission?
If you scrimp on the planning application process, you’re playing a dangerous game. Accurate survey drawings and correct technical information are crucial to getting permission for a project, as well as building it successfully once you have that permission. It might save you some money to cut corners on getting consent, but if there are errors that make the property not buildable it could cost more in the long run.
What Should I Consider Before Applying for Planning Permission?
If you want to create or significantly alter a structure that will be used for living purposes, this can include turning an attic into a bedroom or adding another room to your house, you will almost certainly require permission from the local authorities. Major renovations or additions to a building, as well as the construction of new structures on designated development site, such as in a new home is likely to need planning approval.
Filling in an application with a local council
You may be able to apply for planning approval and building control online. To prepare and submit a planning application to the council, you must supply supporting information for your building/development proposal, which includes:
- Plans for the site and location
- An ownership certificate to prove you own the property
- Agricultural holdings certificate
- Fee for the application
After you submit and pay the application fee, you will receive a receipt by email. The Planning Portal fee calculator can give you a better idea of the application cost for your project.
How long does planning permission take?
Your application may take up to eight weeks to be accepted, while more complicated applications may need extra processing time. Your neighbours will be notified of the application and given a copy of the plans by the agent.
Your local council may consult with other authorities during the public consultation process. This process can typically last between three and eight weeks. For multiple applications, please allow 18 months for this process to take.
Get professional advice from builders?
Whether it's an extension or a full house renovation, Bexhill Property Maintenance's experienced team of expert builders are ready to help and advise throughout the entire process. We offer extension services throughout Bexhill, Eastbourne, and Hastings. You can reach us by calling 07879335446 or 01424 238797, or you can use our contact form to leave us a message.
