Yes, but you will need to obtain planning permission. Converting a detached garage into a self-contained living space, such as annexe, studio flat, or retail unit, represents a material change of use, particularly if it will function independently from the main house. This is because the garage would no longer be used in connection with the main dwelling and would effectively become a separate residential unit.

You typically will not need planning permission to install a hot tub in your garden, as it is classed as an outbuilding and within the permitted development rights in terms of size and portability. However, you may need planning permission if you live in a listed building or conservation area, you should check first with your local authority.

The hot tub will need to adhere to the building regulations in terms of safe and adequate electrical installation by a registered competent person. Find out more about using a registered competent person.

Also, if the hot tub is placed within a building such as a large shed-style structure, there will be separate planning and building control limitations on that structure.

If the conservatory is not separated from the house by external quality walls, doors or windows, then it will lose its building regulations exempt status. As such it will be required to adhere to thermal efficiency rules and ventilation rules.

The new opening created from removal of the door will also need building regulations approval.

Find out more from our conservatories common project

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Foundations are required to carry and distribute the load of the building safely. Therefore, all buildings should have adequate foundations. The factors that need to be considered when designing a foundation are:

• Type of soil
• Adjacent structures
• Trees
• Drains and sewers
• Size and construction of the new building
• Ground condition
• Landfill sites

It is advisable to contact a structural engineer or speak to a building control body about plans for new foundations. 

Read more about foundations for extensions.

If an outdoor kitchen is not a permanent structure, then planning permission will normally not be required.

Where planning permission is required, it may be granted through permitted development rights, provided it meets the limits set out in legislation. Most outdoor kitchens fall within the set limits unless they are particularly tall or close to a boundary.

While there is no specific permitted development right for ‘outdoor kitchens’ it may be classified as an ‘outbuilding’.

You can view the limitations for outbuildings and outdoor kitchens in the relevant common project

If the structure exceeds the limits set out through permitted development rights, then it will require an application for planning permission.

Different rules may apply if you live in a listed building or conservation area. If this is the case, you may wish to consult your local planning authority.

Read about the building regulations that cover outdoor kitchens.