In the United Kingdom, homeowners keen on extending their living spaces often face the hurdle of obtaining planning permission. However, certain home extension designs can be executed without the need for this bureaucratic process, offering a smoother pathway to expanding and enhancing their properties.
One popular option that typically falls under permitted development rights is the contemporary rear extension. When done within specified parameters, such as certain height and depth restrictions, a rear extension can often be built without seeking planning permission. These limitations vary depending on whether the property is a detached, semi-detached, or terraced house. This allows homeowners to add valuable square footage to their homes, creating larger kitchen-dining areas, family rooms, or even space for home offices without the delays associated with planning applications.
Additionally, single-story extensions to the side of a property can sometimes be carried out without planning permission, provided they meet certain criteria regarding height, width, and proximity to boundaries. These extensions can be a practical solution for homeowners looking to expand their living space without encroaching on their garden area.
Here are the specialised sizes for rear extensions under permitted development rights:
Detached Houses:
A rear extension can extend up to 8 meters from the original rear wall of the house if it's a single-story extension
For two-story extensions, the rear extension can extend up to 3 meters from the original rear wall.
Semi-Detached and Terraced Houses:
For both single-story and two-story extensions, the side and rear extension can extend up to 6 meters from the original rear wall of the house.
However, there's a limit to how far a single-story extension can protrude beyond the rear wall of the original house. This limit is 3 meters for semi-detached houses and 4 meters for terraced houses.
Height Restrictions:
Regardless of the type of house, the maximum height of a rear extension under permitted development rights is 4 meters for a single-story extension and 3 meters for a two-story extension.
The eaves height should not exceed 3 meters for any extension.
Other Restrictions:
Rear extensions must not cover more than 50% of the total area of the garden.
Side extensions are not permitted under permitted development rights for terraced houses.
Rear extensions must not result in the total volume of the original house being increased by more than 70 cubic meters for detached and semi-detached houses or 50 cubic meters for terraced houses.
Similarly, basic loft conversions are another home extension design that often falls within permitted development rights. By converting an existing loft space into usable living areas, such as bedrooms, studies, or playrooms, homeowners can maximise their property's potential without the need for planning permission. This can be particularly beneficial for those seeking to add value to their homes or accommodate growing families.
It's important to note that while these home extension designs may not require planning permission, they still need to comply with building regulations to ensure structural safety and energy efficiency. Consulting with architects, structural engineers, and home addition builders well-versed in permitted development rules is crucial to ensuring that the proposed extension meets all requirements.
By opting for home extension contractors that fall within permitted development rights, homeowners can streamline the process of expanding their properties while avoiding the potential delays and uncertainties associated with obtaining planning permission. This saves time and money and offers greater flexibility and freedom in realising their vision for their homes.
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