Permitted development
Find out what you can build without a full planning application, and get the drawings to prove it.
Understand what you can build.
We check your project against the permitted development rules and prepare clear drawings to confirm whether it can go ahead without planning permission.
Permitted development rights let you carry out certain work to a house without applying for planning permission, as long as the work stays within set limits and conditions.
The limits depend on the type of house, what has been built before and where it is. Flats, listed buildings and some new estates do not have the same rights, so it pays to check before you spend money.
What you get
- A check against the permitted development limits
- Clear advice on what is and is not allowed
- Drawings showing the project complies
- A lawful development certificate application if you want one
- A fixed quote before we start
We aim to reply within one working day.
Projects that often fall under permitted development.
Rear extensions
Single-storey rear extensions within the depth and height limits.
Loft conversions
Dormers and rooflights within the volume limits for your type of house.
Garage conversions
Internal conversions that do not enlarge the building.
Outbuildings
Garden rooms, sheds and home offices within the size and position limits.
Porches
Small porches that stay within the size limits.
Larger home extensions
Deeper rear extensions through the prior approval process.
Know where you stand before you build.
Building under permitted development is quicker than a planning application, but only if the work really does comply.
- Extension size and height limit checks
- Checks for removed or restricted rights
- Conservation area and listed building checks
- Drawings you can show a buyer or solicitor later
Three steps to finished drawings.
Tell us the plan
Send the address and what you want to build. Photos and sketches help.
We check the rules
We check the limits and the planning history, and tell you plainly what is allowed.
Drawings
We prepare the drawings, and a lawful development certificate application if you want that certainty.
How do I know if my house has permitted development rights?
Most houses do, but flats and maisonettes do not, and rights are sometimes removed by a planning condition or an Article 4 direction. We check the planning history for you.
Do I still need building regulations approval?
Usually yes. Permitted development is about planning only. Most extensions and conversions still need building regulations approval.
What is a lawful development certificate?
It is written confirmation from the council that your project is lawful. It is optional, but useful when you come to sell.
What if my project is just over the limits?
Then it needs planning permission. We can prepare a householder application, or adjust the design to fit the limits.
You might also need.
Let's talk it through.
Tell us about the property and what you want to do. We’ll come back with a fixed quote and the best route to approval.