Skip to main content

As interest rates continue to rise, it may be easier and more cost effective to extend your current property rather than move to a new one. It can be complicated to understand what’s needed to build one and how to go about it.

At T J Goodwin & Associates, this month’s blog looks at whether or not you need planning permission for an extension. For more information, don’t hesitate to call us in Norwich on 01328 621695

Do You Need Planning Permission?

In short, no you don’t need planning permission for an extension if you build within your permitted development rights. Most of the restrictions that don’t fall under permitted development are for work to the front of a house, next to a road or near a boundary.

Prior Approval

Some projects in your permitted development rights, though they don’t require a full planning application, they do require prior approval. You may be thinking what one is? This is an application to your local authority which ensures you have kept to any permitted development guidelines.

How Does This Approval Differ From A Planning Application

Full planning applications are judged from council to council. It’s important to know what one authority allows, another may not. What prior approval removes is the subjectivity out of the process. This allows guaranteed success as long as you have stuck to the guidelines.

Applying For Planning Permission

If your home or project does not fit within your permitted development rights, you must apply for regular planning permission. This gives you more scope for any sort of creativity and size. However, its important to note this does increase the potential chance of rejection.

For a better chance of first-time success, we advise submitting a pre application. This involves an informal meeting with your planning officer to discuss the feasibility of any ideas you have for the extension, along with any concerns you may have.

T J Goodwin & Associates

For more information about gaining planning permission for an extension, contact T J Goodwin & Associates. Call us in Norwich on 01328 621695. Alternatively, you can make an enquiry via our contact form.

Visit our Facebook page for the latest news and updates