The UK Government provide access to public land records, allowing you to check certain restrictions on land. You can use the online tool to check whether your land is in a conservation area.

VisitGOV.UK and use the planning data map.

(This map covers planning data for England).

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If you are unsure you should contact your local planning authority.

The conversion of a garage, or part of a garage, into habitable space, will normally require approval under the building regulations.

As part of the garage conversion, it is likely that the original garage door will be in-filled with a new wall and possibly a window or door, and a new foundation may be needed for the new wall. 

As well as the foundation, you also need to consider:

• Floor
• Walls  
• Ventilation

Read more about the building regulations for garage conversions.

You likely will require advertisement consent to display a commercial advertisement outside your home, especially when the company does not operate from that location.

 It is more likely that permission will be required where:

• the sign is over 0.3 square metres or illuminated
• the sign is visible from a road
• the building is listed or in a designated area then consent

Find out more about advertisement consent on Planning Portal.

Inefficient windows and doors can significantly contribute to heat loss. Replacing single glazed windows by installing double glazing can cut heat loss through windows considerably. Double glazing works by trapping air between two panes of glass creating an insulating barrier that reduces heat loss, noise and condensation.  

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If you can't replace all the windows, why not choose the rooms that cost you the most to heat? Other options to reduce heat loss through windows include sealing gaps or using thermal blinds.

You don’t usually need planning permission for repairs, maintenance and minor improvements or replacing windows and doors that are of a similar appearance.

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Building regulations apply to replacement glazing, in terms of thermal performance, air supply, ventilation, safety and means of escape.

Read about planning and building rules for doors and windows

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Whether a lean-to requires planning permission will depend on what the lean-to is used for, it may be an extension, pergola, carport, conservatory or gazebo.

In some cases a building a lean-to will be classified as permitted development, meaning an application for planning permission is not required provided specified limits and conditions are met. If these are exceeded, then you must apply for planning permission.

Permitted development rules vary based on the type of work you are completing, visit our Mini Guides for details on the specific rules.

If you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any significant changes.