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.

Categorising land and buildings according to their type and purpose is known as Use Classes.  

A 'Change of use' can be within the same Use Class or from one Use Class to another.

You will need planning permission for certain changes to the use of a property such as changing from a residential use to a business use. However, it is possible to change use between some classes without having to make an application for planning permission.

Depending on the specifics of any proposed change of use, including any building work associated with the proposal, an application for planning permission or prior approval may be required.

Creating a new basement will usually require planning permission, particularly if it affects the external appearance of the property. For example, installing a lightwell to bring natural light into the basement may be subject to stricter design rules if it is visible from the street, especially at the front of the property, compared to those at the rear or side.

Because basement construction involves significant excavation and structural work, permission is often necessary. It’s recommended that you consult your local planning authority early on to understand what is likely to be considered acceptable before submitting a planning application. Building regulations will also apply to a new or conversion of a basement.

Read further guidance on basements.

By law, any planning permission granted expires after a certain period. Generally, unless your permission says otherwise, you have three years from the date it's granted to begin the development. If you haven't started work by then, you will probably need to reapply.

A single storey rear extension can fall under permitted development, meaning planning permission may not be required providing it meets certain criteria.  

In terms of height, the extension must:

• Be no taller than four metres at its highest point

• Have eaves no higher than the eaves of the original house

• Not exceed the height of the original dwelling  

Read about planning permission for extensions on Planning Portal

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