Single Storey Extension: Permitted or Planning?

Extending your home is a great way to add more space and increase its value. A popular choice among homeowners is the single-storey extension. However, navigating the rules and regulations can be challenging.

Understanding planning permissions and permitted development rights is crucial. These regulations ensure your extension complies with local laws and does not negatively impact your neighbourhood.

In the UK, home extensions fall under two categories: permitted development and planning permission. This article aims to clarify the differences between them. It will guide you on when each is required for a single-storey extension.

By the end, you will have a clear understanding of the processes involved, ensuring your extension project runs smoothly.

Planning Permission vs. Permitted Development

When planning a single-storey extension, it is essential to know whether you need planning permission. Any extension typically requires planning permission.

However, you don’t always need to apply for it. In some cases, planning permission is granted automatically. This automatically granted permission is known as ‘Permitted Development.‘

Permitted Development was introduced in 1995 under The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order. It allows homeowners to make minor changes to their homes without seeking council approval.

If your house is original and unmodified, you can benefit from permitted development rights. These rights cover simple rear extensions, side extensions, loft conversions, and minor alterations like changing windows or adding satellite dishes.

Single Storey Extension: Permitted Development Rights Checklist

You can find the legislation online at http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/596/contents/made but basically, you can build a single storey extension under permitted development if:

• The extension does not come forward from the front of the house
• Rear extension – no more than eight metres depth from the original rear of the house if it’s a detached property or no more than six metres for any other house (*larger single-storey rear extensions are subject to the Neighbour Consultation Scheme)
• Side extension – doesn’t have a width of more than half that of the original house
• The extension does not exceed a height of four metres
• Most of the materials are similar to the appearance of the existing building
• No more than half the area of land around the original house will be covered by extensions or other builds. This includes sheds and other outbuildings

You probably don’t have permitted development rights in a conservation area. On a listed building or in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

If your single storey extension does come under permitted development. Then you don’t need to make an application for planning permission – you can just start building. However, we recommend that you apply for a lawful development certificate. In order to prove that the work is covered by permitted development.

Permitted Development For Single Storey Extension: A Streamlined Path

Permitted development rights offer a simplified route for certain building works. These rights allow homeowners to extend their property without the need for a formal planning application.

This process can save time, money, and a lot of paperwork.

So, how can you determine if your single-storey extension can benefit from permitted development?

Key Criteria for Permitted Development

To qualify for permitted development, your extension must adhere to specific guidelines. The most important rule concerns the size of the extension. Generally, for detached houses, a single-storey rear extension can extend up to a maximum of 8 metres.

For semi-detached or terraced houses, the limit is 6 metres. However, these measurements are not the only factors to consider. The height of the extension also matters. Typically, the extension must not exceed 4 metres in height.

Additionally, the extension must not cover more than half the area of land around the “original house.” This term refers to the house as it stood on 1 July 1948 or when it was built if after that date. These rules ensure that the extension remains proportionate to the existing property.

Beyond Size: Other Important Considerations

While size is a crucial factor, it’s not the only one. There are other restrictions under permitted development rights. For example, the extension’s proximity to the property boundary must be considered.

If the extension is within 2 metres of a boundary, the maximum height at the eaves cannot exceed 3 metres. This rule helps minimise the impact on neighbours and ensures the extension blends with the surrounding environment.

Moreover, the materials used must be similar in appearance to the existing house. This requirement maintains the visual harmony of the neighbourhood. It’s also important to note that extensions must not include balconies, verandas, or raised platforms, as these features can overlook neighbouring properties.

If you start building something and there’s no record that the work you’re carrying out is permitted, then typically your neighbors will inform the local authority. This happens very, very frequently – you’d be surprised.

– Yoop Architects

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Why apply for a lawful development certificate

There are a few reasons why it’s a good idea to have it on record that your extension is covered by permitted development:

1. Neighbours

   If you start building something and there’s no record that the work you’re carrying out is permitted.  Then typically your neighbors will inform the local authority. This happens very, very frequently – you’d be surprised. A lot of neighbors think it’s their civic duty to do this and then you’ll have an issue with the enforcement team in the local authority. Regardless of whether or not your single storey extension covered by permitted development. The enforcement team will request that you either put in a planning application or obtain a certificate of lawfulness.

2. Selling Your Home

   When you come to sell your home, your solicitor will give you a form which asks. ‘Have you made any changes to the house?’ If yes, then you have to tick a box for either ‘planning approval’ or a ‘lawful development certificate’. If you do not have either of these documents. You’re again in a situation where no one knows if the single storey extension is lawful.

3. Certainty

   Are you sure your extension is covered by permitted development? Permitted development is a very black and white set of rules and the extension either complies or it doesn’t. If you apply for a lawful development certificate after your extension’s been built. And your builder has built the extension 50mm too high. Then it’s no longer covered by permitted development. That puts you in a very difficult position because you may not get planning permission to cover your extension and then the work isn’t lawful.

How to apply for a lawful development certificate for Single Storey

To apply for a lawful development certificate, you need to submit an application. To your local planning authority or via the Planning Portal online application service.

Click ‘Start a planning application’
First Step – Find your address
Second Step – Select Lawful development: Proposed use
Third Step – Confirm details

Along with the application form, you’ll need to submit drawings of the existing and proposed plans. Along with a site location plan and pay the £103 fee.

For more information, go to Lawful Development Certificates

(You don’t need to make the application yourself – Yoop can apply for single storey extension to permitted development on your behalf so you don’t have to worry about it)

How long does it take to receive a lawful development certificate

Once the application has been submitted. Accordingly your local authority will assign an official to assess your application, make an inspection visit and check the property’s planning history. Assuming all is correct and within the rights of permitted development, you’ll be granted a lawful development certificate (LDC) within eight weeks.

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If your project is not covered by permitted development, then you’ll need to apply for planning permission.

When to Seek Planning Permission

If your single-storey extension doesn’t meet the PD criteria, don’t despair! Planning permission is still an option. Here are some scenarios where you might need to apply:

• Larger or Higher Extensions: If your extension ambitions extend beyond the permitted development limits for size or height, you’ll need to submit a full planning application.
• Material Matters: Using specific materials like slate or unusual cladding materials might necessitate planning permission.
• Conversions and Additional Considerations: If your extension involves converting existing buildings like garages or conservatories, you might need planning permission.

What is planning permission for Single Storey Extension?

Its widely known that the planning permission of the single storey extension is the process by the council. Which determines whether extensions on a terraced, semi detached or detached property are lawful. If you carry out work which isn’t covered by permitted development or planning permission. Then the local authority would end up asking you to take the building or the extension down.

How do I apply for Single Storey planning permission?

To apply for planning permission, you need to make an application to your local planning authority or via the Planning Portal online application service.

Along with the application form, you’ll need to submit:

• A site plan or location plan
• A full set of existing plans, elevations, potentially sections
• A full set of proposed plans, elevations and potentially sections
• The application fee for planning permission is £206

If your home is in a conservation area or a more complicated area. There might be a written document required as well, called a design and access statement. You can also put in a planning statement for single storey extension. However usually a householder application is fairly straightforward so that you just need good information on the drawings

For more information, go to Planning Permission – How to apply

(You don’t need to make the application yourself – Yoop can apply for planning permission on your behalf and chase the planning authority up until we get the OK so you don’t have to worry about it)

How long does it take to receive planning permission of Extension?

The local authority has a statutory eight weeks to deal with the application.

If you have any questions about the planning application process or would like to speak to an architect. Who can help you source and liaise with a local planner, go ahead and book a free call below with Yoop.

Key Considerations for Homeowners

Assessing Your Property’s Eligibility

Before embarking on a single-storey extension project, you must assess if your property qualifies for permitted development. Begin by checking the specifics of your home. Is it a detached, semi-detached, or terraced house?

The type of property influences the permitted extension size. Next, review the history of your house. If it has been significantly altered since 1948, the original house definition might differ.

Consulting with professionals is highly recommended. YOOP Architects and builders can provide expert advice on whether your plans fall within permitted development rights.

They can also help ensure your designs adhere to the guidelines, reducing the risk of legal issues. With their assistance, you can confidently move forward with your project, knowing it meets all necessary criteria.

Navigating Legal and Technical Aspects

Following building regulations is crucial when planning an extension. These regulations ensure the structural safety and energy efficiency of your new space.

Even if your extension qualifies under permitted development, you must still comply with building regulations. Failure to do so can result in fines and the need to rectify non-compliant work.

Ensuring compliance with local council regulations is equally important. Each council may have specific rules and guidelines.

Checking these before starting your project can prevent complications. It is always best to submit detailed plans and seek approval from your local building control body. They can provide guidance and inspect the work to ensure it meets all legal requirements.

Future Implications

When planning an extension, consider its impact on future property sales. An extension can increase your home’s value and appeal to potential buyers. However, if the work does not comply with regulations, it can deter buyers and complicate the selling process. Ensure all work is documented and approved to avoid issues later.

Think about the possibility of future extensions and renovations. Planning with flexibility in mind can save time and money down the road. If you might extend further in the future, design your current extension to accommodate these plans. This forward-thinking approach can make future projects smoother and more cost-effective.

The Next Steps: Planning Your Project

Understanding permitted development rights empowers you to make informed decisions about your single-storey extension. Here’s how to proceed:

• Check Your Local Planning Authority: Your local council’s planning portal will have specific details on permitted development allowances in your area.
• Consult a Professional: An architect or architectural technologist can advise on the feasibility of your project under permitted development or guide you through the planning application process.

By familiarizing yourself with permitted development and planning permission requirements, you can transform your single-storey extension dream into a reality. Remember, this blog post is for general guidance only. It’s always best to check the specifics with your local planning authority and seek professional advice for your unique project.

Neighbour Consultation Scheme: An Alternative for Larger Extensions

– Beyond Permitted Development limitations, a homeowner might still be eligible for the Larger Home Extension Scheme, otherwise known as the Neighbour Consultation Scheme. This allows:

– 6-metre rear extensions for semi-detached and terraced houses

– 8-metre rear extensions for detached houses

To make use of this scheme, you must notify your local council, which will then inform your neighbours. If objection does not arise within the next 42 days, your extension is automatically approved. If an objection does arise, the council will make up its mind on whether the extension is acceptable or not.

How Yoop Architects Can Help

Yoop Architects are the residential extension experts. We know the planning regulations in North London by heart. Our expert team facilitates the successful completion of a project, be it under Permitted Development or Planning Permission arrangements.

We offer:

Professional Planning Advice: We practically determine if your project is a Permitted Development or needs Planning Permission.

High-quality Architectural Drawings: Detailed plans and elevations that are not just based on your vision but also adhere to local regulations.

Planning Application Management: We apply, liaise with local councils, and resolve any issue.

Support with Resubmissions & Appeals: If your application doesn’t get approved at first, we’ll refine the design and help with resubmission or appeal.

A thoughtfully designed single-storey extension adds space and quite a bit of value to the property. If you are interested in extending and need professional advice, get in touch with Yoop Architects about your project and taking the next step!