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Do I need building regulations approval to add underfloor heating?
Whether you need building regulations approval depends on the type of underfloor heating (UFH) you are installing.
Electric UFH must comply with Part P for electrical safety.This work can be done by a member of the competent persons scheme who can self-certify the work.
Wet UFH must comply with Part L which focuses on the conservation of fuel and power. This will likely require building control approval.
Common Questions
Certain types of development are granted planning permission by national legislation without the need to submit a planning application. This is known as 'permitted development'. In order to be eligible for these permitted development rights, each 'class' specified in the legislation has associated limitations and conditions that proposals must comply with.
One such condition on certain classes of permitted development is the need to submit an application to the local planning authority for its 'prior approval; or to determine if it’s 'prior approval' will be required.
This allows the local planning authority to consider the proposals, their likely impacts in regard to certain specific factors (e.g. transport and highways) and how these may be mitigated.
For more information on prior approval, read guidance on prior approval consent types.
Yes, in most cases you can use an outbuilding as a home office without needing planning permission. As long as the use remains incidental to the main dwelling it is still considered part of your domestic residential use.
Research indicates that more than half of the population would like to build their own home at some point in their lives. While it is a significant commitment that demands time and dedication, the reward is a home designed specifically to suit your needs and lifestyle.
As part of the self-build journey you will have to consider many factors including:
- Finance
- Location and acquiring land
- Modular homes
- Planning permission.
Read detailed guidance about self-build homes on Planning Portal
A shed is classed as an outbuilding which falls under permitted development rights, meaning that it does not require an application for planning permission. They can be built in conservation areas provided they meet the limits set out in legislation.
Specifically on protected land, including conservation areas, no part of the outbuilding can be on the side or front elevation of the house.
A full list of limits and conditions can be read on our outbuildings common project.
You will not need planning permission if a new or replacement driveway of any size uses permeable (or porous) surfacing which allows water to drain through, or if the rainwater is directed to a lawn or border to drain naturally.
If the surface to be covered is more than five square metres planning permission will be needed for laying traditional, impermeable driveways that do not provide for the water to run to a permeable area.
This guidance applies to houses, there are different rules for flats and maisonettes, converted houses, new houses or areas where there permitted development rights may be restricted.
Read about paving your front garden
You may need to consider if a dropped kerb is required, largely dropped kerbs are not a planning matter but you will need to apply to your local council.
Find out more about dropped kerbs
