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Do I need planning permission or building control approval to raise the height of an external doorway?
Whether raising the height of an external door requires planning permission depends on the location of the door, location of the property and how drastic the height change will be.
For smaller changes to the side and rear of the property, permitted development rights may apply, meaning no application or planning permission is required.
Where the height change will be substantial and have a significant impact on the building’s appearance, planning permission is likely to be required. Especially in cases where the door to be heightened is on the principal elevation of the property.
Principle elevation - The most visible or prominent side of a structure, typically facing a street or public area. While often considered the 'front' of the building, it may not always contain the main entrance.
In designated areas such as conservation areas, or on listed buildings you may require additional approvals such as listed building consent.
If you believe permitted development rights apply to a small change, you can apply for a lawful development certificate to ensure this is the case.
Building regulations
Building regulations approval will likely be required where the change impacts the structure of a building, this primarily occurs when an opening is widened. When altering walls you may want to consult a structural engineer.
Common Questions
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).
Replacing the window within a bay window is treated the same as any other window. Meaning that the replacement of windows which have a similar appearance to those previously used would not require an application for planning permission.
Repairs, maintenance and minor improvements will also not require an application.
If you live in a listed building or a designated area then different rules may apply.
For more details on replacing windows, visit our common projects section.
In many cases, you can extend a house without applying for planning permission by using what's known as permitted development rights, provided certain limits and conditions are met. However, if your plans go beyond these restrictions, you will likely need to apply for householder planning permission.
Firewalls provide protection against fires spread which may occur to neighbouring properties. Building regulations ensure that modern homes are fitted with firewalls as well as other fire safety measures such as adequate fire escapes and alarm systems.
Older homes may not have a firewall installed in the loft, especially in homes with shared loft spaces. There is no requirement to retrospectively install a firewall, but it should be considered to improve the safety of your home and those living in it.
As an adjoining loft firewall is a party wall, you will need to talk to your neighbour to discuss the work.
Your gas meter should only be moved by your energy supplier or your local gas network operator. For more information contact your energy supplier to understand if they can move it based on your requirements.
Full details on gas safety and planning can be found on our utilities common project.
