Lawful development certificates: do you need one?

If your extension or loft conversion falls within permitted development, you don't need planning permission. But nothing official records that, and that can cause problems later.

What the certificate does

A lawful development certificate (LDC) for a proposed use or development is issued by the council. It confirms that the work you plan is lawful without a planning application. It's legally binding as long as the work is built as described.

Why it's worth having

• Selling the house. Buyers' solicitors often ask for evidence that an extension or loft conversion was lawful.
• Certainty before you build. Permitted development rules have conditions and exceptions, and it's easy to miss one. The certificate settles the question before you spend money on construction.
• Neighbours. If a neighbour complains, you have the council's confirmation.

How it differs from planning permission

The council doesn't judge design or the effect on neighbours. It only checks the facts against the permitted development rules. You'll need accurate existing and proposed drawings, and the fee is half the equivalent planning application fee.

What we prepare

A measured survey, existing and proposed drawings, and the application itself. We check the limits carefully first, because an application that turns out not to be permitted development is refused and the fee isn't refunded.

Related services

• House extensions: Drawings for every kind of house extension, from a kitchen side return to a double-storey rear extension, priced before we start.
• Loft conversions: Drawings for loft conversions of every type, with the stair, headroom and fire escape route worked out from the start.
• Planning permission: We prepare and submit your application, deal with the planning officer, and keep you informed until there's a decision.
• Lawful development certificates: Lawful development certificates in London for permitted development extensions, lofts, outbuildings and porches, and for existing uses and work.