For houses, replacing windows with double glazing usually doesn’t require planning permission, provided the style and appearance are similar to the original. However, if you live in a flat/maisonette, listed building, or a conservation area, planning permission or listed building consent may be required, especially if the changes affect the external appearance.

Read more about planning permission for windows and doors for houses

Read about planning permission for windows and doors for flats and maisonettes

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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

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.

In many cases, you can extend a house without applying for planning permission by using what's known as permitted development rights, provided certain limits and conditions are met. However, if your plans go beyond these restrictions, you will likely need to apply for householder planning permission.

Read guidance on extensions.

See our extensions MiniGuide.

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.