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What permissions are needed, or regulations need to be met to install a stair lift?

Planning permission is not required for the installation of a stair lift, however, if you live in a listed building, you will have to apply for listed building consent for any significant works, whether internal or external.

Stairlifts must be installed in line with BS EN 81-40:2020 which focuses on safety requirements for the installation of stairlifts.

Common Questions

Is building regulations approval needed for a garage conversion?

The conversion of a garage, or part of a garage, into habitable space, will normally require approval under the building regulations.

As part of the garage conversion, it is likely that the original garage door will be in-filled with a new wall and possibly a window or door, and a new foundation may be needed for the new wall. 

As well as the foundation, you also need to consider:

  • Floor
  • Walls  
  • Ventilation

Read more about the building regulations for garage conversions.

Do I need planning permission or building control approval for damp proofing of external walls?

Planning permission is unlikely to be required for the installation of external damp proofing unless the work will change the external appearance of the building or is part of a larger project.

If you live in a listed building you will need listed building consent for any significant changes, this can include external damp proofing. Additional rules may also apply if you live in a Conservation Area or other protected area.

Building regulations approval is not required for installing an external damp proof course (DPC).

Read further guidance on damp proofing.

Is planning permission and building control approval required for removing internal walls in a flat?

Planning permission is not required for moving internal walls in a flat.If the building is a listed building, you may require listed building consent.

Removing a load bearing wall will require building control approval as it is altering the structure of the property. You will be required to provide a report from a structural engineer who will provide structural calculations.

Work on internal walls may also affect fire escape routes, ventilation, drainage or electrics. These should be considered during the design process and work should be carried out by a member of the competent person scheme where possible.

Where can I find a list of Use Classes for change of use?

Land and buildings are categorised by their type and purpose through a system known as ‘use classes’. A 'Change of use' can be within the same Use Class or from one Use Class to another.

You can find a full list of use classes and change of use scenarios related to planning on the Planning Portal website.

Read more about use classes

Do I need any permissions to add an en-suite bathroom?

Planning permission will not be require to add an en-suite provided it is within the existing building and not part of a wider project such as an extension.

 Building regulations will have to be considered when adding an en-suite as it impacts drainage, ventilation and electrics. It is recommended that you have the work completed by a member of the competent person scheme.

Find a competent person

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