Applying for planning permission is an essential stage of many home renovation projects. You’ll need to submit an application for planning if you’re looking to build something new – this includes certain changes to your existing property and can often include adding an extension. There are some cases that you can proceed without planning permission, this is when a project is allowed under Permitted Development (you can read more about this here) – we can help with permitted development applications too. However, if your project falls outside the strict criteria needed to build under PD, you’ll need to apply for permission. The planning stage can be stressful and costly if done incorrectly so Home Tales are here to help you understand exactly what you need for a planning application.

It typically takes 8 weeks to obtain planning permission, and it’s important you submit the correct documentation to ensure there are no delays. Your drawing set, which will include the existing and proposed floorplans, must also include important elements such as the sectional details and elevations that highlight the size and type of windows and doors you’d like to use. In some cases the proposed external building materials need to be specified.

Any late significant changes to your design could impact your application, so it’s important you’re happy with your plans before proceeding. Working with our design team we can offer realistic advice on what you can achieve based on your property, budget, and any planning limitations. We’ll work with you to understand the home you want and experiment with different layouts and design options until you are 100% happy with the final plans. We offer unlimited amendments and are always willing to make changes before you commit to the planning stage. If you aren’t sure how best to communicate your ideas with a design team, head over to our blog ‘making a home renovation mood board’ for advice.

Your application must be submitted to your local authority with a number of necessary documents. This includes a site and location plan showing both the area of your build and any buildings or roads on land adjoining the site. These plans as well as your drawing set, are best provided by a professional team who understand the drawing scales and areas of interest that need to be highlighted. We’ve come across many stories of homeowners looking to cut corners on the planning process who often meet significant delays and penalties as a result. Some councils require additional documentation, such as CIL (community infrastructure levy) forms to be completed. 

Some homes may fall in conservation areas. Conservation areas were introduced in the late 1960s. There are around 10,000 in the UK today, with 10% residing in Greater London. The purpose of a conservation area is to preserve and enhance the areas special architectural, historic, or environmental interest. This is often a worry for homeowners in these areas looking to renovate, however it is absolutely possible to gain planning approval for home modifications with a clever design team to help. If you live in a conservation area your planning application will need to include a Design & Access statement. This is a document that sets out details about the property, the proposal, and how it will impact the surrounding area. Generally, we also include a heritage statement, this is where our team will document the considerations made when designing your renovation and how we’ve considered the local impact of any changes to your property.

If you are concerned about how living in a conservation area could impact your plans, you can read our blog ‘extending in a conservation area’ or head over to our gallery with projects here and here that showcase our work in these areas.

Other documents you may need to submit include a Fire Safety Statement, this outlines the fire safety precautions to be taken on your site and can include aspects such as access to water and firefighting supplies. If you live in an area identified as a flood zone you could need to submit a Flood Risk Assessment. Our process is always uniquely tailored to each homeowner and our planning experts will always make you aware of what specific documentation is needed for your project. We check in with your case officer at key stages to ensure the application is on track and can always guide you on the best way to communicate effectively with your local planning authority. In the rare occasion changes are needed after you’ve submitted your application, we will amend free of charge at the case officer request.

If you have any concerns or questions about applying for planning permission our friendly team of professionals would love to help. You can call us on 02070432378 or email us at hello@hometales.co.uk. Alternatively, you can book a free telephone consultation to speak at a time of your choosing here.