Here at Mash Architecture, many of our projects constitute works which are classed as Permitted Development. This means that Planning Permission is not necessary for the works, which is often an attractive proposition for many clients. Many people are unaware that, in most circumstances, homeowners are permitted to add significantly sized extensions to their properties without the need for planning permission. Not only does this save a great deal of time (a typical planning application for a householder extension takes around 8 weeks for the local authority to process), it also saves the client money and aleviates potential stress and hassle. Providing the house in question does not fall within a designated Conservation Area (Conservation Area maps can be found on your local council’s website, usually under the planning section) or providing the property is not listed, householders can typically extend up to 3.0 metres at the rear of their property under Permitted Development rules – 4.0 metres if the house is detached – and a similar distance to the side boundaries, providing there is sufficient space. Front extensions are slightly more restricted, in terms of the size permittable (usually a porch will be fine) however, loft conversions and dormers are usually allowed, in such a manner that a significant amount of additional floor space can be incorporated. For many clients, these allowances are seen as an ideal opportunity to take advantage of, and are seen as a more cost-effective alternative to moving house, which is inevitably stressful and involves a great deal of upheival.
A good proportion of our Architectural Projects here at Mash centre around extensions or loft conversions which are carried out under the allowances of Permitted Development, so we are well-versed in advising clients on these matters, and highly experienced in exploting the permitted development rights of each individual property to their limits.
If you are considering an extension, loft conversion, or even a basement or garage conversion, then please get in touch and we’ll be happy to advise you via our no-obligation free consultation service. You can send us a message via the contact page on this website, and we’ll be delighted to get in touch with a view to assisting you.
