Things To Consider When Planning
Before starting your next project, whether a loft conversion, an extension, a new build or whatever it may be, it is a good idea to consider a few factors that may affect the progress or result of your development.
Planning permission
If you require planning permission for your project, you will need to allow for processing times before work can commence. Usually, this is a period of 6 to 8 weeks, in which your application will be reviewed and submitted to relevant government departments for approval. The approval is then subject to an appeal from local residents, and if there is no opposition, permission is granted. Keep in mind that for domestic planning permission, a grant is typically valid for only 3 years, after which the process must be repeated if no work has started.
Permitted Development
Your permitted development allowance is a set agreement with the local authority, that allows a certain volume of addition to your property. This is usually between 50 and 70 cubic metres, depending on your type of residence. If your project does not exceed the allowance, nor is under one of the rules for planning permission, then you will not need authorisation from the council. If you have made previous additions and wish to make more, you will need to subtract from your allowance to calculate how much you have left.
Designing your Project
On paper, things can look very different to the final result. Visualising your drawing can be admittedly difficult, but consider how it will look alongside the current theme of your home or area. How does it fit in terms of shape and size? Are the materials to be used similar to the originals? Brick matching is a worthwhile service that can truly make the difference between a poor and well built addition to your house.
Neighbours
Ensure your neighbours are aware of your plans, and make sure you are in agreement before work commences. Try to take their point of view and understand that it may affect them as much as another's project may affect you. Keep your neighbours happy and you will be rewarded with the same courtesy.
Crime Protection
During construction be extra careful with the security of your home. Also keep in mind how alterations will affect your home after work is done. Does it give access to the roof or other areas of the building? Are the doors and windows equipped with appropriate locks?
Lighting
Following on from crime protection, make sure your alterations will be appropriately lit, without annoyance to local residents. Timers and motion sensers are ideal, so long as they are correctly configured and not over sensitive. Besides crime prevention, lighting is also important for safe mobility at night. Ensure that it gives sufficient visibility, but without floodlighting the neighbourhood!
Ownership Rights
Aside from planning permission, check that you are not breaching the conditions of your property agreement. You may need to source approval from someone else first.
Information from direct.gov.uk