Most building projects fall into four main categories, some of which will require planning permission and/or a Party Wall Agreement with your neighbours. Depending on the type of work being undertaken, all may require Building Regulations approval. More information on obtaining the relevant permissions is given on FAQ and Advice. The first step is to decide which route you want to follow to improve your home.

Re-modeling existing rooms

• Knocking down internal walls
• Dividing rooms with partition walls
• Installing en-suite bathroom or downstairs cloakroom

Re-modeling is often the best solution if you need different living accommodation rather than extra living space. In normal circumstances, planning permission is not needed for this work. However, the work must comply with the Building Regulations if it involves alterations to the structure of the building or the drainage, for example removing a load-bearing wall.

Converting unused space within the house

Loft conversions offer a convenient way to add an extra bedroom, bathroom or home office. The easiest way to tell if your loft is suitable for conversion is to see if you can stand upright at its highest point, as this needs to be at least 2.3 meters.
Basement conversions are becoming more popular in urban areas where land is at a premium, but should not be undertaken lightly. The specialist work involved to create a space that is waterproof, well ventilated and well lit, makes them much more expensive than loft conversions.
If your garage is only used as a junk store, ask yourself if it would be better used as habitable space. You will have to upgrade the structure to meet current Building Regulations covering energy efficiency, damp proofing and ventilation. If the conversion involves building on top of the garage, the foundations will need to be checked to show they can take the extra load.

Extending your property

Single storey or two storey extension
There are certain regulations that both single and two storey extensions must comply with. In most cases, they should not bring the building any closer to an existing road. Single storey extensions with a flat roof should be no higher than 3 meters; or 4 meters if they have a pitched roof. The roof of a two-storey extension should be no higher than the existing building.
For most conversions and extensions, the need for planning permission depends on the amount of living space being added to the property. As a rough guide, if the property hasn't been extended before, you can add up to 70m3 or 15% of the original space (50m3 or 10% for terraced properties) under permitted development rights. You must, however, seek Building Regulations approval for all conversions or extensions - except some conservatories - and if you live in a terraced or semi-detached house the work will probably require a Party Wall Agreement with your neighbours

Listed buildings

If you live in a Listed Building, you will need Listed Building Consent for any work, inside or out, if it affects the character and setting. Altering a listed building without consent is a criminal offence. You could not only be prosecuted, but also forced to undertake expensive remedial works. It is best to seek professional advice from an architect, surveyor or to consult your local planning or conservation officer before making any plans.