Work to refit a bathroom with new units and fittings does not generally require building regulations approval, although drainage or electrical works that form part of the refit may require approval under the building regulations.

If a bathroom is to be provided in a room where there wasn't one before, building regulations approval is likely to be required to ensure that the room will have adequate ventilation and drainage, and meet requirements with respect to structural stability, electrical and fire safety.

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

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In many circumstances, rules known as ‘permitted development’ rights allow you to extend a house without needing to apply for planning permission, providing specific limitations and conditions are met. If you want to exceed these limits and conditions, then it is likely that an application for householder planning permission will be required.

The limits and conditions for building an extension under permitted development rules are covered in our guidance on the Planning Portal, and there are other points to take into consideration.

Visit Planning Portal to find out more.

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Yes, under permitted development, a new dormer must not be higher than the existing highest part of the roof. It should also have materials that are in similar appearance to the existing roof. Additional limits apply in conservation areas and on listed buildings. Read about planning permission for loft conversions on Planning Portal

If the garage will remain in domestic use - for example, as a personal hobby or home workshop - then planning permission is typically not required.  

However, it’s important to check whether there are any planning conditions, covenants, or restrictions attached to your property or the garage itself that may limit or prevent conversion.  

Read about planning permission for garage conversions on Planning Portal.  

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