Blog>Expert Advice>14 home improvements that don't need planning permission

Last updated: 30 April 2024

14 home improvements that don't need planning permission

There are so many ways you can improve your home that don't need formal planning permission. Find out what home improvements you can get started on that fall under permitted development (PD).

14 home improvements that don’t need planning permission
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Home improvement excitement can crumble with the thought of planning permission. But, there are actually lots of jobs you can do without planning permission.

By renovating under permitted development rights, you can maximise your home's potential without applying for planning. Upgrade your home, find more living space, and add value without having to complete all of the paperwork.

Read on to learn all about home improvements that don't need planning permission.

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Permitted development explained

For major renovations, two-storey extensions, or new builds, you will most likely need planning permission from your local planning authority.

But, many home improvement projects don't need planning permission. Under permitted development rights, you can make extensive changes to your home - inside and out.

You'll still need to own your property freehold and make sure the building work meets specific criteria. For example, extensions and loft conversions must be a maximum of a certain size.

But the list of home improvements that do not fall under planning regulations is extensive.

Take a look at our permitted development guide for more information.

Porch extension without planning permission

Can you renovate a house without planning permission?

Yes, you can renovate a house without planning permission.

If unsure, check with your local planning authority to see if your home renovations comply. Your local planning authority will tell you if planning permission is required for any or all of your projects.

You can also apply for a lawful development certificate to be doubly sure.

When permitted development rights are not permitted

Always check if permitted development applies before beginning any major home projects.

Permitted development doesn't usually apply to:

  • Listed buildings

  • World Heritage sites, conservation areas, or national parks

  • Flats and maisonettes (because they fall under a leasehold agreement)

  • Some new builds (check your deeds or past planning documents)

Always check with your local council or ask an architect for more advice.

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14 home improvements that don't need permission

Doing work in your home is a great way to enlarge, elevate and enjoy your home.

Get inspired with our list of 14 of the most popular home improvements that don't need permission.

1. Build a single-storey extension

You can extend your home to the rear or side without planning permission. But, this usually only applies to single-storey extensions.

To build a ground floor extension without planning permission, make sure:

  • Materials match the existing property

  • Side extensions only go up to half the width of the original building

  • Your extension stays within 50% of your garden fence

  • It is within three metres from the original building (four metres for detached homes)

Considering an extension? Get advice from a builder near you.

Single storey extension without planning permission

2. Convert your garage

A garage conversion can add huge flexibility to your home. You can use it as an extra bedroom, home office, or garage gym.

Usually, you won't need planning permission for a garage conversion.

But, you can only convert the interior of your garage and not enlarge it in any way (including the roof). Also, check that any new windows don't look into the windows of neighbouring properties.

Find a garage conversion specialist.

Garage conversion without planning permission

3. Add a conservatory or sunroom

Adding a conservatory or sunroom gives your home natural light and extra space.

You don't need planning permission for either. However, your new conservatory or sunroom must not exceed the max height of four metres (or three metres within a two-metre boundary) and should not negatively impact your neighbour.

Find conservatory installers near you.

Conservatory without planning permission

4. Elevate with a loft conversion

A loft conversion can add functional living space and extra floor space.

A loft conversion doesn't usually require planning permission, whether you want an extra bedroom, home gym, home office, or T.V. room.

But make sure you stay within the building limits and match the building materials. You can also convert your loft into a non-habitable loft conversion.

Read our guide to loft conversion planning.

Home improvements that don

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5. Upgrade your kitchen

One surefire way to add value to your home without planning permission is to renovate your kitchen.

For many families, the kitchen is the heart of the home. So, even the simplest upgrades can make a difference in prepping family dinners or making more room for appliances.

Get started with our full kitchen renovation planning guide.

Or, find a kitchen installer near you for more advice.

Home improvements that don

6. Add a porch

Adding a porch is a great way to make your home look clean and tidy.

Not only is a new porch functional, but it's also an easy and relatively budget-friendly home improvement project. Plus, you can choose from any form of porch or roof.

However, make sure your porch stays within two metres from any boundary and is no taller than three metres.

Find out how much it costs to build a porch.

Porch home improvements without planning permission

7. Replace your roof

Upgrading your roof can improve your home's weather resistance, energy efficiency, and overall appearance. Under permitted development, you can replace worn-out tiles or your roof covering entirely.

You can even do it with a different material or add skylights for natural light.

But, alterations can be no more than 150mm from the existing plane. This should give enough room for a layer of external insulation.

Find out how much it costs to replace your roof.

New roof without planning permission

8. Renovate your bathroom

Besides knocking on your neighbour's door to give them a heads up about the noise, you don't need planning permission to beautify your bathroom.

You can replace everything, including the bathroom suite, sinks, toilet, fixtures, and flooring, or a small, budget-friendly bathroom glow-up might be more suitable.

It's a great way to brighten up and modernise your bathroom.

Find out how much a new bathroom might cost you.

Bathroom - home improvements that don

9. Upgrade your decking and patio areas

Create a usable outdoor space in winter to enhance your home's functional floor space.

Installing or upgrading your decking or patio is a great start. It will create an ideal dining, entertaining, relaxing, or play area.

With heating or shade, like a pergola, you can make your outdoor area usable most of the year.

Check out our decking vs patio cost guide to see which is right for you.

Pergola home renovation without planning permission

10. Do some interior remodelling

You can drastically improve the appearance and useability of your home with interior remodelling.

Remodel your interior by knocking down walls to create an open-play layout or adding partitions to separate your space.

Always check with a local builder if you plan on removing walls, as they may be load-bearing, and a support may need to be installed.

Interior remodelling without planning permission

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11. Boost your basement

Don't extend up; extend down. Converting your basement is a top way to add more room to your home.

If you currently have a lower-ground space, convert this into a usable basement without planning permission.

Make your basement a T.V. room, guest bedroom, storage space, or log store.

But, if you don't currently have a basement space and plan to excavate the space, you'll need planning permission.

A local planning consultant will be able to help.

Modern basement conversion no planning permission

12. Replace or repair your windows

Replace or repair your windows to improve your home's energy efficiency, ventilation, and natural light.

You can repair or replace your current windows as long as the appearance of your house isn't materially altered.

If you're replacing a window on the side of your home that looks into your neighbour's property, go for obscured glazing. Also, be aware that bay windows are considered extensions.

Find out which windows and doors are the most energy-efficient.

Home improvements that don

13. Improve energy efficiency with solar panels

Good news - the installation of solar panels sits under permitted development rights.

Solar panels are a great way to future-proof your home and save you money on electricity bills.

Solar panels will need to be installed below the highest part of the roof covering and within 200mm of the roof plane.

Look for solar panel installers for more advice.

Solar panel home improvement

14. Give your home an exterior makeover

Another great way to revitalise your home without planning permission is to give it an exterior makeover.

A simple upgrade can add curb appeal or value to your home. You could:

  • Render the outside of your home

  • Repaint the facade

  • Install a new front door

  • Add lighting to your steps

  • Overhaul your garden landscape

  • Add gates, fencing and walls for extra privacy and security (as long as they fall within the allotted height restrictions)

House rendering without planning permission

Find a trade near you

Speak to a professional today to discuss the projects you'd like to do in your home.

Whether it's an architect, planning consultant, builder, or extension specialist, our professionals can tell you if you need planning permission.

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