Conservatories are a great way to add extra living space to your home while also increasing its value. However, before embarking on the installation of a conservatory, you need to ensure that you have the necessary planning permission. Planning permission may be necessary to ensure that your proposed conservatory complies with all local building regulations and planning policies. In this article, we will look at whether you need planning permission for a conservatory so you can be sure you’re doing the right thing.
What Is Planning Permission?
Getting planning permission is a legal requirement before beginning any major renovations or additions to your home. The goal of acquiring a building permit is to guarantee that a project will be built in accordance with all local codes and guidelines. Your property’s safety, security, and compatibility with the neighbourhood can all benefit from obtaining the necessary planning permission.
Does a Conservatory Need Planning Permission?
The majority of conservatories fall under the category of “permitted development,” meaning that no special permits are needed for their construction. Some renovations and additions to a property can be made without first obtaining planning permission because of “permitted development rights.” However, before you start planning your conservatory, there are a few things you should know.
For conservatories to qualify as legal expansion, they must meet the following standards:
- The conservatory’s footprint cannot exceed fifty percent of your lot size.
- The peak of the conservatory roof can’t be higher than the peak of your main roof.
- If your home is attached, the conservatory’s rear wall extension cannot be more than three metres; if your home is detached, the maximum allowed extension is four metres.
- There can be no elevated decks, patios, or balconies in the conservatory.
- If your home’s side faces a road, you can’t have a conservatory added there.
The Impact of Corrugated PVC Sheet on Planning Permission
Materials used in a conservatory’s construction might also affect whether or not planning permission is needed. The use of corrugated PVC sheets as a roof material for a conservatory, for instance, may not necessitate planning permission. However, you should be aware of a few limitations:
- The corrugated PVC sheet must be colorless and nonreflective, therefore it must be either transparent or opaque.
- The corrugated PVC sheet needs to be installed in a frame that matches the structure’s current material.
- Eave height cannot be more than three metres.
- The conservatory must not be within two metres of any boundary that adjoins a road.
In conclusion, it is not always necessary to obtain planning permission before constructing a conservatory. To avoid fines and delays, check with your local planning authority to make sure a conservatory is allowed. Consult a specialist if you are unsure whether or not your conservatory will require planning permission – it’s far better to wait until you have the information than it is to get started and find you have made a mistake. If that’s the case, you might have to tear down the structure and start all over again.