What Can I do with Permitted Development?

June 19, 2023

What are permitted development rights?

As a homeowner, you can carry out certain types of work on your house without the need for planning permission. These are called ‘permitted development rights’.


Any building work done within permitted development will need to meet certain standards and criteria limiting the maximum size of extensions and loft conversions.


Luckily, these limits are quite generous. There’s a lot you can do to maximise your living space and improve your home without the need to go through planning permission.


What can I do under permitted development rules?


Limits apply which will restrict both the size of your extension and its outward appearance. This is because permitted development comes with a strict set of rules to make sure developments are in keeping with the local streetscape. They also make sure there’s no negative impact to your immediate neighbours – so your new extension or conversion doesn’t block their light, for example.


Rear Extension

This covers any extension across the rear elevation of your property. From side-return extensions to extensions that span the full width of your house.

Maximum depth:

Single storey rear extensions can come out by up to 3 metres for semi-detached, terraced and link-detached houses, and by 4 metres for a detached house, based on the original plans of the building, or as it stood on 1 July 1948 if older.

You can apply for prior approval for rear extensions up to 6 metres for semi-detached, terraced and link-detached houses, or by up to 8 metres for a detached house. This needs to be done before work starts. Your local authority will consult with your neighbours and decide whether prior approval is required before work can go ahead. Factors that can influence their decision include your neighbours’ ‘right to light’.

Maximum height:

No more than 4 metres. Any part of the roof falling within 2 metres of your neighbours’ boundaries must be a maximum height of 3 metres.

Maximum area:

Rear extensions must not come out further than the side of the house, and you can’t cover more than half of the land around the original dwelling (including outbuildings and sheds). The extension also must not come within 7 metres of the rear property boundary.

Appearance:

Your choice of materials must be similar in appearance to the original house.



Two Storey Extension

If you need extra bedroom space, you might be surprised to hear that a two-story extension may be perfectly achievable under permitted development. Here’s what you need to know:

Where can you build?

Two storey extensions can only be built off your property’s rear elevation, but not the side or front elevations.

Maximum depth:

You can extend a maximum of 3 metres from rear elevation on semi-detached, terrace or link-detached house, or up to 4 for a detached house.

Maximum height:

The height of the roof ridge and eaves can’t exceed the height of the ridge and eaves on the original house. Any part of the roof falling within 2 metres of your neighbours’ boundaries must be a maximum height of 3 metres.

Maximum area:

The extension (including any existing extensions and outbuildings) can’t exceed more than 50% of the total land around the house.

Appearance:

The pitch of the roof should be the same style as the existing roof and tiles and other externals materials should match. The pitch of the new roof should also match the existing house. Any second storey windows must be obscured glass and their opening parts must be at least 1.7 metres above the floor.


Side Extension

You can add extra downstairs living space to your house with a side extension. However, two storey side extensions don’t fall under permitted development rules. Let’s take a look at what’s achievable without going through planning permission:

Maximum width:

Side extensions must not exceed half the width of the original house.

Maximum depth:

The side extension can extend out further than the back of the house, projecting into the back garden by up to 3 metres for a semi-detached, terraced or link-detached house, or 4 metres if detached, based on the original plans of the building, or as it stood on 1st July 1948 if older.

Maximum height

The highest point of the roof can’t exceed is 4 metres. Any part of the roof falling within 2 metres of your neighbours’ boundaries must be a maximum height of 3 metres.

Property boundary:

There’s no restriction to how close you can go to the boundary with your neighbours, although it is always wise to talk to them about your plans first.

Wrap around:

Full width wrap around extensions aren’t allowed under permitted development rights. But a partial wrap around is permitted, provided the total width of the extension at its widest point does not exceed half the width of the original building.

Appearance:

Your choice of materials must be similar in appearance to the original house.


Loft Conversion

There are a few different types of loft conversion. These include:

  • Roof lights only – this is the most straight forward option, which usually this involves interior changes only, with the simple addition of Velux-style windows to the existing roof
  • Dormer conversion
  • Hip-to-gable conversions
  • Mansard conversions
  • L-shaped

One or more different types of loft conversion can be used in a single project (for example, dormer windows can lend extra head hight to mansard or hip to gable conversions). The following regulations apply to them all:

Street view:

Dormers can’t be built on the front elevation of the house under permitted development (this is usually the side that faces the street). The only change at the front can be rooflights (Velux-style windows) which can project up to 15cm from the roof surface.

Maximum height:

Loft conversions can’t be higher than the highest point of the current roof.

Maximum volume:

The total increase in roof volume can’t exceed 50 cubic metres for a detached or semi-detached house, or 40 cubic metres for a terrace. Dormers must be set back a minimum of 20cm from the eaves.

Access:

The loft staircase must have at least 2 metres head height clearance.

Appearance:

New windows on the side of the house must be frosted and their opening parts must be at least 1.7m from the floor. Balconies or verandas are not permitted, but Juliet balconies that have no platform are allowed. New roof tiles and windows must match existing.


Garage Conversion

If you’re planning to extend into your garage to create a bedroom or living area and most of the work will be internal, it should be achievable under permitted development rules. When replacing your garage door and installing new windows, you’ll need to take care to use similar materials to the existing house.

Where planning permission would need to be considered is if you’re converting the garage into a separate dwelling (including annexes for family members) or increasing its footprint.


Porches

No extension can come forward past the line of the principal elevation – that’s usually the side of the house that faces the street. For example, you can’t add a new bay window without going through planning permission.

The only permitted development allowed on the front elevation is a porch with a maximum footprint of 3 square metres and no more than 3 metres in height. It must also be set back at least 2 metres from the boundaries of your property and from the road.


Garden Rooms, Outside Offices and Outbuildings

Garden rooms are classed as ‘outbuildings’ and can be built under permitted development rules. The rules for outbuildings cover structures that are within your property boundaries but not attached to your house. This includes garages, summer houses, and sheds, as well as less obvious buildings like tennis courts, swimming pools, ponds and containers used for heating oil. 

Position

Outbuildings can’t be built more forward than the front elevation of your property (the front wall of your house).

Maximum height:

They can be up to 4 metres high if they have a dual pitched roof, or up to 3 metres with other types of roof, eg a flat roof. Any part of the roof falling within 2 metres of your neighbours’ boundaries must be a maximum height of 3 metres.

Maximum area:

The outbuilding must not exceed more than half of the original footprint of your house when it was built or on 1 July 1948, if it was built before then.

Features:

Decking around your outbuilding is fine, but you cannot build verandas or raised platforms above 0.3 metres in height.



Conclusion


The overall result is there is a lot of flexibility to what you can do with your home now under these rules. We have experience of working with York Council and North Yorkshire County Council to ensure everything is completed to satisfaction and no problems later arise. York have traditionally been more challenging for loft conversions however our skill and experience can ensure your loft conversion in York goes without a hitch!

Looking up at york minster

Why choose a local builder

By Nick fothergill • September 17, 2024
Why is Hiring a Local Builder with Local Knowledge the best way for a successful home extension? When looking at doing an extension on your home, be that adding a new bedroom, expanding your kitchen, or creating a home office, choosing the right builder is crucial. One of the key factors when looking at options is whether to hire a local builder or a larger, national firm. While both options come with their own merits, there are several reasons why hiring a local builder with strong ties to your community is often the better choice. Understanding Local Planning Permission and Regulations One of the first hurdles you’ll encounter when planning for an extension is local planning permission and building regulations. Different councils have varying rules on what’s permissible in terms of design, size, and placement of home extensions. Some times its not even about rules. We have seen situations where an application in York should technically be acceptable but the home owner was advised to change an aspect. We know most of these challenges from experience, sometimes painful experience! A builder from outside the area might not be familiar with these specific requirements and hurdles, leading to potential delays, costs or even the rejection of your application. Building regs is another similar situation. While it should be black and white, experience says otherwise! Familiarity with Local Architecture and Style Every area has its own distinct style, and it’s important that any extension you build blends harmoniously with the existing architecture of your home and its surroundings. A local builder, who has likely worked on homes similar to yours, will understand these architectural nuances. For example, if you live in a Victorian terrace in the middle of York, a builder with local experience will know how to create an extension that complements the framework whilst meeting modern building standards. They can also provide insight into challenges which need to be overcome. Reliable Local Suppliers and Tradespeople Another advantage of hiring a local builder is their established relationships with local suppliers and subcontractors. Most building projects, especially extensions, require a wide range of materials and skilled workers and some of them will be contractors A builder who operates locally is likely to have strong connections with reliable suppliers, ensuring that high-quality materials arrive on time and at competitive prices. In contrast, builders from further afield may have to source materials from unfamiliar suppliers, potentially resulting in delays or higher costs. Additionally, local builders often have preferred tradespeople they work with regularly. These trusted connections help ensure that each aspect of your extension is handled by someone with a proven track record. This collaborative relationship can lead to better communication, fewer mistakes, and a better final build. Faster Response Times and Greater Accountability Hiring a local builder means that they are never too far away, which can be a real advantage when it comes to scheduling meetings, addressing issues, or making decisions quickly. For instance, if unexpected problems arise during construction—whether it’s a structural issue or a supply chain delay—a local builder can visit the site in a matter of hours rather than days. This proximity also often results in better communication. You’re likely to have more face-to-face contact with a local builder, which can be reassuring and lead to a smoother project. If issues do arise, it’s easier to resolve them when your builder is just around the corner, as opposed to working with someone based miles away who might be juggling multiple distant projects. Moreover, because local builders rely on word-of-mouth recommendations and maintaining a good reputation in the community, they have a vested interest in delivering a high-quality job. They are often more motivated to go the extra mile to ensure that their clients are satisfied. A large, national company may not feel the same level of personal accountability, especially if their reputation isn’t tied to a specific area. Supporting the Local Economy Hiring a local builder isn’t just good for your project—it’s also beneficial for your community. By choosing a builder who lives and works in your area, you’re supporting local businesses and helping to keep money circulating within the local economy. This can have a positive ripple effect, as local builders often source materials and services from other nearby businesses. When you hire a local tradesperson, they’re likely to reinvest their earnings in your area, whether by shopping at local stores, dining at local restaurants, or hiring local services. This not only strengthens your community but also contributes to its long-term vitality and sustainability. The Local Advantage When planning an extension for your home, hiring a builder with local knowledge offers numerous advantages. From a deep understanding of local planning regulations to familiarity with the architectural style of your areas, working with someone who knows the area can lead to a smoother, faster, and more cost-effective project. Their connections with local suppliers and tradespeople, combined with their understanding of regional weather patterns and materials, ensure that your extension is built to the highest standard. On top of that, supporting a local business can contribute to the well-being of your community as a whole. In the end, the decision to go local could be the key to ensuring that your extension is a successful, stress-free addition to your home. AG Developments and Construction are proud to be a local builder and we hope to be able to help you soon!

Should You Inform Your Home Insurance Company About Building Work?

By Edward Dore • April 3, 2024
When you're planning to build onto your home, it's an exciting time that promises to improve your space and probably increase the value of your property. However, in among the planning, the budgeting, and the dreaming of the finished result, there's an important administrative step you shouldn't overlook: informing your home insurance company about the upcoming changes. The Importance of Transparency Your home insurance policy was calculated based on the condition and specifications of your property at the time you took it out. Extensions, changes and loft conversions can significantly alter these parameters by increasing the value of your home, changing its structure and adding rooms. Failure to notify your insurer might lead to your policy becoming void or claims being rejected in the future. Risk Assessment Insurance is all about risk, and building projects introduce new variables into the equation. From structural alterations that might affect the building's integrity to extensions that increase its footprint and rebuild cost, insurers need to reassess the risk level of the insured asset. Construction work also brings additional hazards, such as the increased likelihood of theft or accidental damage, which insurers need to account for. Temporary Changes in Coverage Depending on the scale of your renovation or extension, your insurance provider might need to adjust your coverage temporarily. This could involve extending your policy to include cover for building materials, and even the work itself against damage or theft. In some cases, if you're leaving the property while work is carried out, you might need unoccupied property insurance to ensure continuous coverage. Legal and Liability Considerations Significant renovations might also require you to update your liability coverage. If the project involves construction professionals and workers being on your property, you'll want to be protected against potential claims should someone get injured while on your premises. Moreover, if the renovations impact your neighbours or their property, it's vital to have your liability coverage assessed. Communicating with Your Insurer When informing your insurer, be prepared to share detailed plans of your home extension, including the nature of the work (for example kitchen extension, removal of wall, steel work or loft conversion), the expected duration, and the estimated cost. This information will help them understand the scope of the project and adjust your policy accordingly. In some cases, insurers might restrict coverage or even temporarily suspend certain protections. In our experience the houses in York area are regularly being extended so insurance doesn't pose many challenges. What Happens if You Don't Inform Them? its tempting to not say anything. However, failing to notify your insurer about building work can have significant repercussions. Should you need to make a claim during or after the renovation process, you might find that your insurer refuses to pay out, arguing that the risk was not accurately represented. This could leave you facing substantial financial loss, far outweighing any savings from not updating your policy. Adding an extension to you home or converting your loft is an exciting venture, but it's essential to keep your home insurance provider in the loop. Not only does this ensure that your coverage remains valid, but it also protects you against unforeseen costs and complications. In the dynamic landscape of homeownership and property value, being proactive about your insurance coverage is a wise strategy for peace of mind and financial security. The key takeaway is clear: Before embarking on any significant project, reach out to your home insurance company. This simple step can save you a world of hassle, securing your investment and safeguarding your home against the unexpected.

What are the best extras for my extension?

By Kieran Jones • February 15, 2024
From smart home technology to luxurious finishes, here's a guide to help you make informed choices for your dream home extension Smart Home Technology In the era of connectivity, integrating smart home technology can revolutionise the way you interact with your living space. Control lighting, thermostats, security systems, and more remotely, creating a home that adapts to your lifestyle. Energy Efficiency We champion being green so low energy appliances and lighting are a default but investing in triple glazing, the best roof lanterns and additional insulation can quickly pay dividends. Home Security Systems After having a wonderful home extension built nothing beats the reassurance of having your entire home secured. Simply build the sensors in at the time of works and enjoy ongoing security. Whilst York, Pocklington and surrounding areas are not high crime it always helps to feel safe. Luxury at Every Turn: Upgraded Flooring and Finishes Upgrade your living spaces with high-quality flooring, countertops, and finishes. Even chrome sockets can make a huge difference to the final finish. Not only do these enhancements improve aesthetics, but they also contribute to the long-term value of your home. We are happy to help demonstrate the options and offer our experience. Curb Appeal: Landscaping and Outdoor Lighting Make a lasting first impression with professional landscaping and outdoor lighting. A well-designed exterior not only enhances curb appeal but also complements the overall aesthetics of your home and makes the whole experience of your new living space. Home Entertainment: Bring the Theatre Home Transform your living room into a home theatre with a state-of-the-art entertainment system. Built-in sound systems can create a cinematic experience within the comfort of your own home. As you start on this journey of transforming your home into the perfect home, carefully consider these optional extras to tailor your living space to your unique lifestyle and preferences. Prioritise based on your needs and budget, and consult with your builder to ensure that all agreed-upon extras are included in your contract. With the right choices, your new home will not only meet but exceed your expectations, providing a haven of comfort, luxury, and functionality for years to come.