All You Need to Know About Planning Permission

Simon Levy Associates • 15 December 2020
Viewing a drawing

Are you thinking of extending your home or building a new structure? It’s important that you seek planning permission if necessary and go about things the right way. In this blog, we explain all you need to know about planning permission and what it involves.

Read on to learn more.


What is planning permission?

When you plan on making major changes to your property, how it is used or building something from scratch, in some cases you will need to seek planning permission. This is a formal document that includes details of your plans, which is sent to your local authority and reviewed. You can submit planning permission on any piece of land, even those you don’t own. So, if you want a professional team to submit your document for you that’s okay.


What happens if you don’t get planning permission?

If you are planning a building project you should always check planning permission requirements to be on the safe side. However, if you go ahead with a build without the relevant approval, you are committing a planning breach. You may end up with a project that is unsafe and could even be reported by your neighbours which could put you in a very bad situation such as prosecution. Although you can file for retrospective planning permission, it’s always best to get approval before starting a project.


What is assessed?

Once your submission has been received, the body aims to process your application within 8 weeks. Every detail will be assessed and reviewed to determine whether you can go ahead or not. Furthermore, your local planning authority will also consider your neighbours. They will be asked for their views and whether they are okay for the work to go ahead as there are many factors that can be concerning. Loss of light, less privacy, noise and safety are all relevant considerations.

At Simon Levy Associates , we offer a wide range of construction services including help with planning permission. If you want to extend your property or make modifications, we can advise you through the process so your project is in line with building regulations. Working across Hertfordshire and across London, our in-depth knowledge will keep your build on track. Contact us today for more information.

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