It sure is exciting to have home Extensions and add some more space to your property. However, there is a limit to how much you can add and extend without planning and permission. After all, there are some development rules based on where you live, regarding home Extensions.

If you think you can extend without permission or without looking at those rules and regulations, it is not advisable. It is best to learn about building control approval before you get started. Thus, in case you are planning to make changes to your house, you may need planning permission. Any failure to do so or ignoring those regulations can lead to major penalties or even demolition of those home Extensions.

Given below are some possible restrictions you are likely to face when adding an extension to your house.

Backward extension restrictions:

There are limits to building an extension at the back of the house, and it should not be higher than the house itself. Care should be taken so that the extension does not reduce the open space and must not exceed a certain length.

Forward extension restrictions:

In some locations or cities, home Extensions are not allowed to be built forward, and thus one might not be able to add raised platforms or balconies in front of their house towards the road. Likewise, there might be some limitations for side extensions.

Cladding:

If you plan to make any alteration to the roof of the existing house, perhaps you cannot include the cladding of the exterior. Thus, you need to understand the laws regarding the allowed extension in your area.

Storey:

At times people want to add one more storey to their house as an extension. However, those extensions of more than one storey are not more than the rear wall of the original house. Thus, there could be limitations regarding the area as well as the height.

No extensions:

In many cases, some types of buildings are not permitted to have any home Extensions as they do not have permitted development rights. In that case, you will need full planning permission before you start making any changes. If the property is situated within a protected area such as National Parks or if it is located on a World Heritage Site, you may not be allowed any extension at all. However, in some cases, you can take advantage of permitted development rights for home Extensions.

Neighbours permission:

In case if you share a wall with a neighbour, you are legally obliged to get your neighbour’s permission and give him a notice of one or two months depending on the kind of work involved.

Garage:

If you want to convert the garage for domestic use, it should not extend the front of the building line. The look and finish of the extension must match the rest of the house, and the extended garage cannot be used for commercial purposes.

Height and material:

One can erect brick, stone, or wooden walls around their house, but these too need to follow the rules and regulations regarding the thickness, the material used, and the height. There are restrictions regarding the size of the gate too.

If you have home Extensions in mind, it is best to speak to the local building contractor and consult the architect before you go ahead and start making those changes. It is likely that there might be some permissions applied in your case, and one must navigate these issues beforehand. Choosing the right architect and the right plan is vital when making a successful home extensions to your house. You might even need planning permission if renting your house or its extension for short-term lets. For more information, browse the website of your local building rules and permission.