Expanding your home with an extension is one of the most effective ways to gain extra space and add value to your property. Whether you’re dreaming of a spacious open-plan kitchen, a new home office, or a light-filled dining area, extending your home can transform the way you live. But before you begin, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “Do I need planning permission for an extension?”
At Simply Extend, London’s leading home extension specialists, we help guide you through every step of the process — from design to completion — including navigating the often confusing world of planning permission.
When You Don’t Need Planning Permission
The good news is that many home extensions fall under what’s known as Permitted Development Rights (PDR). This means you may not need full planning permission, provided your project meets certain limits and conditions set by your local council.
Under Permitted Development, you can typically extend your home without planning permission if:
- The extension does not cover more than half the land around your original house.
- The materials used are similar in appearance to the existing property.
- The extension is not higher than the highest part of the existing roof.
For single-storey rear extensions, the structure does not extend beyond the rear wall by more than 3 metres for attached houses, or 4 metres for detached houses (this can increase under the larger home extension scheme, subject to prior approval).
Side extensions are single-storey and do not exceed 4 metres in height or more than half the width of the original house.
It’s important to note that flats, maisonettes, and homes in conservation areas or listed buildings have different rules and usually do not benefit from Permitted Development Rights.
When Planning Permission Is Required
You’ll need to apply for planning permission if your proposed extension exceeds the Permitted Development limits, changes the appearance of the property significantly, or impacts your neighbours. Common reasons include:
- Two-storey extensions extending beyond the rear wall of the house by more than 3 metres.
- Extensions taller than the existing roof.
- Projects that reduce light or privacy for neighbouring properties.
- Extensions on listed buildings or in conservation areas.
At Simply Extend, our in-house architectural team will advise whether your design falls within Permitted Development or requires a planning application. We’ll also handle the submission process on your behalf, saving you time and stress.
How Simply Extend Makes It Simple
Navigating planning rules can be daunting, but with Simply Extend, you’re in safe hands. We manage every aspect of your project — from initial design and planning approval to construction and finishing touches. Our dedicated team ensures all work complies with building regulations and local authority requirements.
Contact Us
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across London successfully plan and build their dream extensions, whether through Permitted Development or full planning applications. Our goal is always to make the process as smooth and transparent as possible.
Whether you need planning permission or not, Simply Extend will guide you every step of the way. Our expert designers, project managers, and builders work together to create stunning, functional extensions that enhance your home and lifestyle.
Contact Simply Extend today to book your free consultation and find out how London’s leading home extension specialists can turn your vision into reality.
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