Removing a non-load bearing wall will likely not require building control approval provided it does not affect fire escape routes, ventilation, drainage or electrics.

It is best practice to get a report from a structural engineer to ensure the wall is non-load bearing prior to starting any work.

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Adding air conditioning to your home may be considered permitted development provided all the limits and conditions set out in legislation are met. The limits set out the function, size, placement and quantity of air conditioning units allowed.

The rights only apply if the system provides a heating function (including if it can provide both heating and cooling). If the system only offers a cooling function, then the rights do not apply and an application for planning permission will be required.

If your home is in a protected area such as a Conservation Area then permission will be required. If you live in a listed building then consent will be required.

The installation of air conditioning must comply with building regulations. It is advisable to contact an installer who can provide the necessary advice, preferably one who belongs to either the Microgeneration Certification Scheme or the relevant Competent Person Scheme.

For more information on air conditioning, read our heat pumps common project.

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You will often not require planning permission to fit a log burner. If you are adding a new external flue or chimney then different rules will apply.

If you live in a listed building you will require listed building consent.

The installation of a log burner must comply with building regulations. It is recommended that you use a HETAS-registered installer who can certify the work. Visit the HETAS website to search for an installer.

Read more information around fitting an external flue or chimney in our common projects section.

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Planning permission is not required to move an internal doorway, provided it does not impact the external appearance of the building. If the building is listed, you will require listed building consent for any changes to the building.

Building regulations may apply if the wall is load bearing or is part of a fire escape route.

Read more about windows and doors from our common projects.

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A wall is a 'party wall' if it stands astride the boundary of land belonging to two (or more) different owners, for example the wall separating two semi-detached properties.

Some kinds of work carried out to a property may not be controlled by the building regulations, but may be work which is covered by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This is a separate piece of legislation with different requirements to the building regulations.

To find out more about party walls, visit Planning Portal.

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