Guides
Plain-English guides
The questions homeowners ask us most, answered clearly.
- ExtensionsHow far can I extend without planning permission?Permitted development limits for house extensions in England, the larger home extension route, and when you still need planning permission.
- PlanningLawful development certificates: do you need one?What a lawful development certificate is, when to apply for one for an extension or loft conversion, and how it differs from planning permission.
- Building regulationsWhat's in a set of building regulations drawings?What building regulations drawings include for an extension or loft conversion, full plans versus building notice, and who approves them.
- Party wallsParty wall notices for extensions and loftsWhen an extension or loft conversion needs a party wall notice, the notice periods, and what happens if a neighbour doesn't agree.
- LoftsCan I convert my loft without planning permission?Permitted development rules for loft conversions in England: volume limits, front roof slopes, side windows and when building regulations apply.
- ExtensionsPrior approval for a larger home extensionHow the larger home extension prior approval route works: depths up to 6 m or 8 m, neighbour notification, the 42-day decision period and the current fee.
- PlanningArticle 4 directions in London: what they mean for youWhat Article 4 directions are, the common types in London, how to check if your home is affected, and what they mean for a planning application.
- BasementsDo I need planning permission for a basement in London?When a London basement needs planning permission, how borough basement policies work, and what a Basement Impact Assessment and party wall notice involve.
- PlanningWhat does living in a conservation area mean for my extension?Which permitted development rights are reduced in a conservation area, plus demolition, trees, Article 4 directions and the design councils expect.
- OutbuildingsDo I need planning permission for a garden room or outbuilding?Permitted development rules for garden rooms, studios and sheds in England: height limits, the 50% rule, allowed uses, and when building regulations apply.