Forum Topic

Planning Permission...

So we would like to extend our flat but as it has already been extended previously we are getting told we might not be able to extend further. The extension we have was done by a previous occupier and isn't suitable for us. We had hoped to remove and start again but go larger.Question is before we start spending money with architects and the like is there a way we can find out if in principle we could even entertain the idea? I wondered if anyone out there had ideas,experience or advice?Currently have a 2 bed garden flat in a detached property. We occupy 2/3rds of the ground floor and want to extend further into our own garden.

Jamie Fuller ● 4647d5 Comments

The best place to start in respect of "what can we do" is to look at similar houses down the street.If others have gone as large as you want to then likely you'll be allowed; if not then breaking new ground with planners can be hard.With the recent relaxing of planning laws there is a lot more you can do under permitted development without planning. Usually any extension will refer back to the "base build" of the house, especially if you are knocking down what's already been extended.However I agree with all comments so far --- consult your neighbours out of courtesy and respect!!! That is far better than a notice landing on their doormat about an upcoming development!!! It also makes it a bit easier for us builders if the neighbours are on side when the work kicks off.........

Colin Goodman ● 4647d

Agree with you Chris, thats precisely what we did when we wanted to extend after an earlier extension. The neighbours were asked too.

Gerry Tan ● 4647d

Thank you for the advice. We are on good terms with both neighbors and will speak with them before we go ahead.I'll get onto ealing council website to look at the pre-application.

Jamie Fuller ● 4647d

You are meant to be entitled to what's called pre-application advice from the Council planning service, though they may charga a fee for that - many Councils do - but it'll be cheaper than engaging an architect or planning consultant at this early stage - they'd want to get the pre-app advice anyway.It would also be decent and courteous to discuss with any of your neighbours who may be affected in respect of outlook or other amenity.

Chris Veasey ● 4647d

You could TRY to talk to a Planning Officer but probably won't get far.It might be simply worth biting the bullet and employing an architect to do the leg work and check if what you want to do is at all feasible. Go local and they may have contacts within planning to whom you don't have access.

Nigel Brooks ● 4647d