The research is all done and we’ve uncovered at least 21 house renovation projects you can tackle to upgrade your home without going through the painful planning permission process. Take a look at the list below.
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1. Internal Renovations Including New Kitchens and Bathrooms.
One of the most obvious projects you can tackle without planning permission is decorative internal renovations, including the addition of a new kitchen or bathroom. Even if you’re switching rooms around and moving the position of rooms (along with plumbing and pipework to go with it), there’s no planning permission needed. You can even move a bathroom from downstairs to upstairs! The only exception to this is if you live in a listed or conservation building which protects your house in order for it to stay true to its original form. In this case, the rules will vary, so check with your local council about what you can and can’t do. Otherwise, you can get stuck in with a sander and paintbrush! Photo: Russel Jones.
2. Removing Internal Walls.
If you feel like taking a sledgehammer to knock down an internal wall and open up some much-needed space, you can! Provided you know what you’re doing, of course. There’s no planning permission for removing internal walls, however, if you’re removing a load-bearing wall, you should file a building notice to let your council know this work is being carried out, as it will be subjected to certain building regs. Once the work is complete, the job should be inspected by either your local building control or a private building inspector who will be able to certify the job has been done correctly. There may be a fee for this, so you should check with your local council first. Photo: Russell Jones
3. Replacing Or Adding New Windows And Doors.
Fancy upgrading or adding in some new extra windows and doors? Whether you’re looking at replacing with sash windows, aluminium windows, bi-folding doors or even the trendy Crittall glazing, you can install any of these, hassle-free, without planning. If you use a FENSA approved installer you won’t require any extra certification either as all FENSA installers are able to self-certify their own work for compliance to building regs. It means you will automatically receive a certificate as part of your install. If you chose to DIY-fit or use a non-approved installer, you may need to apply to building control for them to carry out their own inspections to provide certification. Depending on your local council, there may be a fee for this, so it’s always best to check the cost of this first! Photo: Russel Jones.
4. Adding a Conservatory
Conservatories can be a cheaper alternative to a full new build extension and a quicker way to add an extra room to your home. They can be installed under the “permitted developments rights” without the need for planning permission. Photo: Russell Jones.