Do you need planning permission for Conversion to flats?

Whether you are planning to convert a house or an office building into flats you will definitely require some form of planning permission whether it’s a change of use, prior approval or full planning permission. It is important to note that planning permission is never guaranteed so before starting works or committing any significant capital to the project it is recommended that you undertake a planning appraisal or a submit formal pre-application. You do not need to own the property; in fact, we deal with many clients who are considering making an offer subject to their conversion to flats being feasible.

If you submit a formal pre-application to your planning authority with the designs and project brief which your planning authority will respond to indicating what “might be required”. Ultimately the final design and application will determine their decision so the pre-app still does not give you a definitive answer. The process takes 8 weeks and can cost hundreds of pounds excluding any architectural designs.

Alternatively, Studio Charrette can conduct a planning appraisal. This involves a chartered planning consultant researching the project to check the relevant planning and design policies, they also check the planning history and look for any hidden constraints. This takes about an hour at which point they can call to advise what would be required and answer any questions. Subsequently we forward the advice in writing. A planning appraisal will provide with the answers you need and will save you an 8 week wait and in most cases is also more cost effective.

There are never any guarantees with planning permission, because ultimately only your planning authority can make the legal determination. However, with a planning appraisal we can let you know whether your proposed development would be feasible, assuming it is what the best route forward would be and the likelihood of success. As part of the planning appraisal, we can also advise you on building regulations, structural engineering calculations and construction if required.

Assuming the planning appraisal is positive we can then provide a quote for any services you want help with including architectural design, planning permission, building regulations and construction. Should you decide to instruct Studio Charrette can take care of everything for you from start to finish.

If you have any questions or would like to arrange a planning appraisal for your project, contact us today and a member of our team will contact you shortly.

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