Permitted development extensions: everything you need to know
Permitted development extensions can be a minefield. Our Leeds architects explain the rules.
Permitted development extensions are a great way to create more space at home – without planning permission.
But they can be complex with many limits or conditions to be met. Here, our Leeds architects untangle the process for you.
Why build a permitted development extension?
Choosing to improve your home through permitted development rights, rather than seeking planning permission, has several benefits.
Permitted development allows certain types of work to homes to go ahead, and comes from a general Government planning permission.
The dominant benefit of using these rights is avoiding the need to apply for full planning permission from your local authority, which can be a lengthy (and even more complicated) process. As long as you stick to the defined guidelines, your improvements should go ahead with no issues.
Your costs when pursuing a permitted development extension will be slightly lower, as there is no need to pay for extensive planning applications.
And you will also enjoy more flexibility around when and how work can proceed.
The use of permitted development rights for extensions and home remodelling is very popular, especially as more people choose to improve their property rather than relocate.
What extensions can be built under permitted development
The guidelines around permitted development differ depending on your property and available space.
- Detached homes can have a rear single-storey extension of up to four metres, while on semi-detached or terraced homes the rule is up to three metres.
Both must not exceed a height of four metres at its highest point and 3m at its eaves. - It is possible to carry out a loft conversion using permitted development rights.
The extension can’t be higher than the existing roof.
Any additional roof space created must adhere to volume allowances of 40 cubic metres for terraced houses and 50 cubic metres for detached or semi-detached houses. - Another option under permitted development rules include creating a small front porch.
- In some cases, a rear double-storey extension on detached properties can be successfully completed, but it must be more than seven metres away from any boundary opposite the rear wall and other rules also apply.
- Finally, homeowners also use permitted development rights to convert outbuildings.
These must be used for ancillary purposes, like a home office, gym, garage or pool.
These buildings must meet height and boundary rules, and also cannot fill more than 50 per cent of your property plot (including the main house and other buildings on the site).
Take a look at our Wakefield architects’ previous extensions to see what can be achieved with permitted development.
Other considerations for permitted development
Whatever you choose to build using permitted development, the materials used must be similar to the existing ones used on your home.
New build estates often don’t have permitted development rights, and listed buildings are also exempt.
One factor which may surprise you is that balconies or verandas are not permissible under permitted development.
Permitted development extensions only apply to houses, not flats or maisonettes.
There are also some other restrictions which apply on designated land, such as in a conservation area.
How we can help with your home extension plans
As residential architects in Yorkshire, extensions are our speciality.
We have transformed hundreds of properties into dream homes which meet every need of our clients – from adding a extra living space to a games room for a snooker table!
We stay on top of the latest trends and developments in home extensions.
Going ahead with an extension is also a big decision, and we can talk you through every stage of the process in detail to ensure you fully understand it.
We also help clients apply for a lawful development certificate, which can be useful when it comes to selling your property or if there are any community concerns. This experience and deep sector knowledge means we can overcome any challenge, to build the home you’ve always wanted into reality.
We’d love to hear about your vision – get in touch with the team for more information or a no obligation quote.
