Get the most out of the Larger Home Extension Scheme

Rear extensions have always been a popular development amongst homeowners, offering additional space to improve the home and adding value to the property at the same time – an investment twice over.

Because of the relaxation in the law, it is now easier to achieve larger scale development…but how?

In this post, we will go over the key information that you need when considering a larger rear extension.

What is prior notification for larger home extension?

Since May 2013 householders can apply for up to double the depth compared to permitted development for single-storey rear extensions as follows:

• Eight metres for a detached house
• Six metres for any other house

Moving forward:  May 2019 Update on Larger Home Extension

Whilst it was great to have projects approved (especially following 2013 improvements) all applications were subject to the condition that the development had to be built by May 2019. Otherwise you ran the risk of receiving an enforcement notice. This required applying for planning permission and if rejected, you were back to square one.

You can imagine the incredible rush to get applications through and projects finished!

New regulations for Larger Home Extension

Rest assured, this is no longer the case. With the updated regulations, you can now apply for permission without worrying about the expiry date. But heads up – if the development is granted, it is still advisable to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate for Proposed Use to ensure your development fully complies with planning conditions.

The application is no longer free and has a fee of £96. This can be processed via the planning portal.

What are the requirements to be eligible?

Thinking of pursuing a rear extension? Great!  We can carry out a feasibility assessment and confirm that you satisfy the following conditions:

• it’s a house (not a flat, or partial ownership of property)
• the highest point of your development up to 4.0m (pitched roof), 3.0m (flat roof)
• permitted development rights are intact.
• There are no restrictions on your property such as a Site of Special Scientific Interest or land with an Article 2(3) restriction.

The common confusion

With the requirements mentioned above, the application is not available to everyone. Just because you have permitted development rights, it does not mean you can skip the application process.

You still have to apply for permission, but not Planning Permission. What this means is you will need your neighbours’ consent. If an objection is raised, your proposal will be measured against the planning policies. So, it’s going to be in your favour to have your neighbours supporting your proposal before submission.

What happens if my neighbour(s) object?

There are many reasons why your neighbour may object to your proposal. It could be for things like overshadowing, loss of light, loss of privacy, disruption from builders, questions about access, queries about design, environmental concerns and so on.

Your local authority will make a decision within 42 days (6 weeks) from the validation date. Your neighbours will have a 21-day period to give their views or reasons to why they believe your home extension should not be built. If your neighbour objects, it doesn’t necessarily mean your application will be refused, but your local authority will review the impact of your proposal and will make an informed decision.

If your proposal has been refused, you have one free try to re-apply. If refused again, you can consider making an appeal.

Closing words

Whilst the application may seem straightforward, the best thing you can do to ensure everything goes smoothly, it’s best to  get a knowledgeable team on board to take care of the process for you.  You should also speak to your neighbours at the start of your project and explain to them what you plan on doing. In this way, you can put their mind at ease, and address any concerns or issues they may have.

Get in touch by using out contact form or arrange your free on-site consultation today!