Planning
Articles covering the legal and financial aspects of planning a home extension project. We focus on permissions, budgets, neighbour relations and specific requirements for protected properties.
Applying for Change of Use When Renovating and Extending
You'll need planning permission to change a building's use from non-residential to residential before starting renovation or extension work.
Converting Two Houses Into One
How to convert two houses into one without planning permission, plus what building regulations and safety rules you'll actually need to follow.
Energy Supply and Capacity for Extensions or Small Builds
Enhancing your home or building a small commercial space? Don't let modern energy demands exceed your current supply; plan ahead!
Extending a Listed Home
Adding an extension to a listed home costs more and requires navigating multiple permissions, but planners are becoming more flexible about what's possible.
Extending Without Planning Permission
You can add an extension without planning permission if it meets size limits, but building regulations still apply and must be checked.
Extending Your Home in a Conservation Area
Building an extension in a conservation area requires extra planning permission steps, so check your local council's rules before you start.
Extension Build Software
Use standard office software like spreadsheets and word processors to manage your extension project budget and communications with builders.
Keeping in with the Neighbours
Telling neighbours about your home extension before they see official notices can prevent complaints and help you avoid costly planning problems later.
Obtaining Planning Permission
Planning permission isn't as complicated as it seems if you check local plans first and understand what planners are actually looking for.
Planning Issues for Self Contained Annexes
Self-contained annexes need careful planning to avoid being classified as a separate property, here's what councils and planners actually check.
Raising the Finance for a Home Extension
Home extensions need proper budgeting before you borrow, and your options differ depending on whether you're improving your own home or a development project.
Refused Planning Permission for an Extension: What to Do
Your planning application got rejected—here's how to challenge the decision and move forward with your extension build.
Setting a Budget for Your Extension
Work out what your home extension will cost before you start and keep spending under control throughout the project.
Using a Computer to Plan an Extension
How to use computer software to plan a home extension, from 3D visualization to cost estimation.
When Is an Annexe Not an Annexe?
Understanding what counts as an annexe for planning and council tax purposes can save you time and money on your extension project.