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Can I change my house into a shared house for students (HMO)?
In many cases, yes. Converting a single residential property (Class C3) into a small House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) for up to six occupants can often be done under permitted development rights, specifically under Class L. This means that planning permission isn’t usually required.
However, if your property is located in an area covered by an Article 4 Direction, permitted development rights are removed, and you would need to apply for full planning permission to change the use from C3 (dwellinghouse) to C4 (HMO).
Read more information about use class changes on Planning Portal
Common Questions
A roof window (or skylight) is fitted flush within the slope of a roof, while a dormer projects outward, creating additional headroom and floor space.
Both can be installed under permitted development but must meet specific size and position limits to qualify.
Also consider building regulations for a new dormer, find out more on Planning Portal
A single storey rear extension can fall under permitted development, meaning planning permission may not be required providing it meets certain criteria.
In terms of height, the extension must:
- Be no taller than four metres at its highest point
- Have eaves no higher than the eaves of the original house
- Not exceed the height of the original dwelling
Read about planning permission for extensions on Planning Portal
Under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended), you have a general permission to install an antenna up to a specific size on property without the need for planning permission. This general permission depends on your house type and area. Your local planning authority can give you more advice.
No, a two-storey extension will always require planning permission. Permitted development rights only allow for certain types of single-storey extensions without the need for a planning application, provided they meet specific criteria. All extensions of more than one storey fall outside of these rights and must be assessed through the formal planning process requiring householder planning permission.
Read more about extensions on Planning Portal
You will not need to apply for planning permission if you wish to erect a new; or alter, maintain, improve or take down* an existing fence, wall or gate if certain conditions are met. If any of the conditions are not met, then you will need to apply for planning permission.
Find out about the limits and conditions for fences, gates and walls.
Fences, walls and gates do not require building regulation approval. Even though building regulations do not apply, the structures must be structurally sound and maintained.
If you share a wall with a neighbour, it may be classed as a ‘party fence wall’.
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