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Do I need planning permission to move an internal load bearing wall?
You do not need planning permission to move internal walls.
Removing a load bearing wall will require building control approval as it is altering the structure of the property. You will be required to provide a report from a structural engineer who will provide structural calculations.
Work on internal walls may also affect fire escape routes, ventilation, drainage or electrics. These should be considered during the design process and work should be carried out by a member of the competent person scheme where possible.
Common Questions
You may wish to make loft alterations to enhance the storage facilities available or to increase the living space of the home. Converting the loft of a house is considered to be permitted development (not requiring an application for planning permission) subject to certain limits and conditions.
Remember, building regulations approval is required to convert a loft or attic into a liveable space.
Find out about loft conversions
There are different rules for flats and maisonettes regarding loft conversions. Read guidance for converting the loft of a top floor flat.
Planning permission will not be require to add an en-suite provided it is within the existing building and not part of a wider project such as an extension.
Building regulations will have to be considered when adding an en-suite as it impacts drainage, ventilation and electrics. It is recommended that you have the work completed by a member of the competent person scheme.
Normally planning permission is not required for installing a toilet in an existing area of the property as the change is only internal. If the toilet is part of a wider project such as an extension permission may be required.
If you live in a listed building, then listed building consent will be required for any major changes.
Building regulations will apply to the installation of a toilet in a property, these will cover areas such as ventilation, plumbing and drainage, and size.
Raising your garden level a small amount is likely to not require planning permission as it is likely to have minimal impact on the chances of flooding or overlooking your neighbours.
Increases of over 30cm may require planning permission as a significant change can impact drainage or your neighbours. If the changes are close to a boundary, you should consider whether it will overlook your neighbours or be intrusive.
You should contact your local planning authority to understand whether your proposed changes will require planning permission.
Planning permission is not required for moving internal walls in a flat.If the building is a listed building, you may require listed building consent.
Removing a load bearing wall will require building control approval as it is altering the structure of the property. You will be required to provide a report from a structural engineer who will provide structural calculations.
Work on internal walls may also affect fire escape routes, ventilation, drainage or electrics. These should be considered during the design process and work should be carried out by a member of the competent person scheme where possible.
