Simon Rix, planning consultant for the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show, founder of Planix, says:
As a planning consultant, I often advise homeowners on the best way to improve their properties while staying within permitted development rights. Many people want to extend their homes, convert their lofts, or add outbuildings without the delays and uncertainty of a full planning application. Fortunately, permitted development rights allow for a wide range of projects, and I frequently see homeowners taking advantage of these rules to make meaningful changes to their homes.
One of the most common projects I come across is single-storey rear extensions, which can often be built without planning permission, provided they stay within the size limits. Detached houses can extend up to eight metres to the rear, while other houses can extend up to six metres under the Neighbour Consultation Scheme. Loft conversions are another popular choice, with many homeowners adding dormer extensions to create additional living space. Provided the extension does not exceed 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached homes, or 40 cubic metres for terraced properties, planning permission is usually not required.
Garage conversions have also become increasingly common, particularly as people seek more space for home offices or additional living areas. Most of these conversions fall under permitted development as long as they don’t involve major external alterations. Similarly, the rise in remote working has led to a surge in garden offices and outbuildings, which are allowed under permitted development as long as they don’t exceed 2.5 metres in height within two metres of a boundary or take up more than 50% of the garden.
Another area where I see a lot of interest is renewable energy installations, particularly solar panels. Many homeowners don’t realise that these can often be installed under permitted development, provided they don’t protrude more than 20 centimetres beyond the roof slope or exceed 0.6 metres on a flat roof. With rising energy costs, more people are looking to make their homes more energy efficient, and permitted development rules allow for a range of improvements, including better insulation and heat pumps.
While permitted development rights offer great flexibility, it’s always important to ensure that any work complies with the relevant regulations. Internal alterations, such as knocking down walls, changing windows and doors, or replacing roof coverings, are usually allowed without planning permission, but there are exceptions, particularly for listed buildings or properties in conservation areas. Similarly, while many homeowners assume they can freely change the exterior finish of their property, adding stone, render, timber, or tiles may require permission in some areas.
One of the biggest mistakes I see homeowners make is assuming that just because a project falls under permitted development, they don’t need any formal confirmation of this. If a project is significant, particularly if it involves substantial costs, I always recommend applying for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC). This certificate is an official confirmation from the local planning authority that the work does not require planning permission. Not only does this provide peace of mind before starting work, but it can also be essential when selling a property. Many buyers’ solicitors will ask for evidence that previous work was lawful, and without an LDC, this can cause delays or even jeopardise a sale.
Even with permitted development rights, local restrictions can sometimes apply. In some areas, councils have introduced Article 4 Directions, which remove certain permitted development rights, particularly in conservation areas. The PD rules are also different in area such as conservation areas, national parks, national landscape areas (formally called Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty), World Heritage Site areas and the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads. If you are unsure whether your home is affected by these restrictions, it’s always worth checking before starting any work.
If you are considering a home improvement project and want to be sure it falls within permitted development, seeking advice from a planning consultant can help avoid costly mistakes. I always advise homeowners to check the rules carefully and, where necessary, obtain an LDC to provide certainty for both the present and the future. Whether you’re extending your home, converting a loft, or installing solar panels, taking these steps can save time, money, and potential complications down the line.
Free tickets for the show, where people can have a one-on-one consultation with Simon Rix, are available at: https://www.homebuildingshow.