Last week the Government said householders no longer need to get planning permission from their local authority if they wish to build and extension or have a loft conversion.
Although the rules have been relaxed for the next three years home owners need to be aware that it’s not quite that simple.
The Society of Licensed Conveyancers (SLC), which is the trade body for the conveyancing industry, is warning that many home owners could find themselves in breach of building regulations, if they misinterpret these latest changes.
Far from kick starting the economy, the SLC fears that a lack of clear communication about the on-going obligations for home owners wishing to extend their current home, could end up costing those who opt to take advantage of this temporary relaxation in planning rules thousands of pounds, if they fail to secure the necessary building regulations approval.
The SLC is warns that any extension to a person’s home will still be subject to building regulations approval and in addition, may also require ‘build over’ permission from the local water board, if the property or planned extension encroaches on a public drain or sewer. Failure to secure these necessary approvals could later lead to legal and remedial action, at the expense of the home owner.
John Clay, chairman of the SLC said: “It is very important for home owners to understand that these recent changes do not simply allow you to press ahead with a planned extension if it falls within the new permitted dimensions. You are still required to secure building regulations approval. Failure to do so could result in the council later requesting that you take down your extension – a costly and easily avoidable scenario, if you ensure you secure the necessary permissions up front.
The SLC is urging any home owners who are planning to add an extension to their property to contact their local council or to visit the government’s planning portal (www.planningportal.gov.uk) for further information and clarification, before commencing with any planned building work.
