Understanding Permitted Development Rights
Permitted development rights are a set of national policies that allow homeowners to carry out certain improvement and extension work, or repurpose their properties, without needing to apply for development permission from the local authority. With this pre-approved permission from Parliament, homeowners can extend or modify their properties within specific limits, saving both time and money as long as they adhere to the relevant rules. In this article, we will explore permitted development rights and their limitations.
What Projects Are Covered by Permitted Development Rights?
These rights permit homeowners to undertake improvements and extension work on their residential and commercial properties, provided they stay within legal boundaries.
Rear Extension Projects
- Building work must not extend beyond the existing property’s rear wall by more than 3 metres for attached houses or 4 metres for detached houses.
- Must use the same construction materials as the existing house.
- Must occupy less than 50% of the area of the land surrounding the existing house.
- Must be less than 4 metres in height, or less than 3 metres if within 2 metres of a property boundary.
- Must have eaves and a ridge not taller than the existing house.
Side Extension Projects
- Must be at the side of the existing house and not face the highway.
- Must use the same construction materials as the existing house.
- Must occupy less than 50% of the area of the land surrounding the existing house.
- Must occupy less than 50% of the width of the existing house.
- Must be less than 4 metres in height, or less than 3 metres if within 2 metres of a property boundary.
- Must have eaves and a ridge not taller than the existing house.
Wraparound Extension Projects
For building works that involve both side and rear extensions to create a ‘wraparound’, the permitted development rights restrictions will be evaluated according to the criteria for both side and rear extensions individually, making it more challenging for projects to fall under permitted development rights.
Two-Storey Extension Projects
- Should not have windows in the wall or roof slope of the side elevation on different storeys.
- Must occupy less than 50% of the width of the existing house.
- Must occupy less than 50% of the area of the land surrounding the existing house.
- Must use the same construction materials as the existing house.
- Must have eaves and a ridge not taller than the existing house.
- Terraces must not be more than 3.5 metres higher than the next highest terrace.
Garage Conversion Projects
- Construction works must be internal.
- Must use the same construction materials as the existing house.
- Must not enlarge the existing building.
- If converting a detached garage into a bedroom, living room, or office, you may require development permission.
Loft Conversion Projects
- Must have a volume allowance of 50 cubic metres of additional roof space for detached and semi-detached houses.
- Must use the same construction materials as the existing house.
- Must not include a window in any section or roof slope creating a side rise of the dwelling.
- The roof pitch of the primary part of the dwelling must match that of the existing house.
- Must have a dormer wall set back at least 20 centimetres from the existing wall face.
- Must have windows that are non-opening if less than 1.7 metres from floor level.
- Must have side windows that are obscured or frosted.
Constructing a New Storey or Flat on Your Property
- There cannot be windows in the wall or roof slope of added storeys.
- You may include up to two additional storeys on the topmost storey of a detached house or existing multi-storey properties.
- The newly extended house must have a maximum height limit of 18 metres.
- Terraces must not be more than 3.5 metres higher than the next tallest terrace.
About Muse
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At Muse Architects, we offer a wide range of local architectural services to clients in Manchester and beyond. From building control in Manchester to office design project management, our team of experienced architects has the skills and expertise to handle any project. Whether you’re looking for commercial building architects or residential architects near you, we’re here to help.
As local architects, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities of designing buildings in Manchester. We specialise in Manchester residential architect services and work closely with clients to create beautiful, functional spaces. Our 3D property visualisation services, including 3D visualisation for city planning and interior design, are designed to help you bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more about how Muse Architects can help you achieve your architectural goals.
