Building above an attached garage is treated the same as adding a storey to the rest of your home. This is considered to be permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission provided you meet the set rules and requirements.

You will still need to submit an application for prior approval to your local planning authority.

Read the list of rules and requirements for extending upwards.

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Changing from a commercial use (use class E) to residential(use class C3) falls under permitted development rights, meaning an application for planning permission is not required.

To use the permitted development right you must meet the rules and regulations set out in legislation, this includes submitting an application for prior approval to the local planning authority. The full list of conditions is available on the government website, or our online application form will tell you whether you are eligible.

If you are not eligible for the permitted development right, you will have to submit an application for full planning permission.

Find out more about change of use

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.

Adding a permanent wheelchair ramp for access to a home is likely to require planning permission as it will permanently change the external appearance of the front of the house. If the application is solely for improving disable access to the building then the planning application will be exempt from a planning fee.

If you live in a listed building, you will have to apply for listed building consent for any significant works, whether internal or external.

All permanent wheelchair ramps must comply with Approved Document M of the building regulations which specifies the gradient, width and surfaces which should be used.

Read Approved Document M: Access to and use of buildings.

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.

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