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Do I need building control to refurbish an existing dormer roof with insulation
Significant changes to insulation and thermal elements would normally require building regulations approval. The extent to which this applies depends on the existing insulation and what it will be replaced with.
If the work is completed by a member of a competent persons scheme, then an application for approval will not be required.
Find out more about insulation and building regulations on our common projects.
Common Questions
Adding a permanent wheelchair ramp for access to a home is likely to require planning permission as it will permanently change the external appearance of the front of the house. If the application is solely for improving disable access to the building then the planning application will be exempt from a planning fee.
If you live in a listed building, you will have to apply for listed building consent for any significant works, whether internal or external.
All permanent wheelchair ramps must comply with Approved Document M of the building regulations which specifies the gradient, width and surfaces which should be used.
Once you submit your application it will be considered by the local planning authority. The Planning Portal does not have access to the application once it is submitted.
You will need to contact your local planning authority to check on the progress of any submitted application. Many authorities now let you track the progress of applications on their own council websites.
Your local authority’s contact details and website address can be found by using our local authority search.
Planning permission is unlikely to be required for the installation of external damp proofing unless the work will change the external appearance of the building or is part of a larger project.
If you live in a listed building you will need listed building consent for any significant changes, this can include external damp proofing. Additional rules may also apply if you live in a Conservation Area or other protected area.
Building regulations approval is not required for installing an external damp proof course (DPC).
Rules governing outbuildings apply to sheds, playhouses, greenhouses and garages as well as other ancillary garden buildings such as swimming pools, ponds, sauna cabins, kennels, enclosures (including tennis courts) and many other kinds of structures for a purpose incidental to the enjoyment of the dwellinghouse.
If you are unsure if your planned building falls into the category of 'outbuildings' or if you are unsure if planning permission is required, please contact your local planning authority.
Outbuildings are considered to be permitted development, not needing planning permission, subject certain limits and conditions.
Adding a porch canopy is classed as permitted development provided it meets the limits and conditions set out in legislation. Where this is the case, no application for planning permission is required.
Porches must meet the following limits:
- the ground floor area (measured externally) would not exceed three square metres.
- no part would be more than three metres aboveground level (height needs to be measured in the same way as for a house extension).
- no part of the porch would be within two metres of any boundary of the dwellinghouse and the highway.
Read our mini guide for additional information on installing a porch.
