Home extensions – A quick guide to what you need to know

A Guide to Obtaining Planning Permission for a Home Extension

Do you live in Buckinghamshire and are thinking about extending your home?

Building a home extension is an exciting prospect for homeowners seeking to expand their living space and enhance their property’s value. However, before embarking on this journey, it’s essential to understand the process of obtaining planning permission to ensure a smooth and successful construction project. This blog post will provide a general overview of the procedure for securing planning permission in Buckinghamshire for a home extension.

Research and Pre-Application Stage
Before submitting a formal planning application, thorough research is vital. Start by visiting the official website of Buckinghamshire Council to understand the local planning policies and guidelines. Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements related to home extensions, such as permissible dimensions, design considerations, and conservation areas.

For complex projects or if you are unsure about certain aspects, consider seeking pre-application advice from the planning department. This can help you refine your plans, identify potential issues, and increase the likelihood of a successful application.

Prepare the Planning Application
Once you have a clear understanding of the local regulations and have finalised your home extension design, it’s time to prepare the planning application. The application pack should include:

a. Completed application form: Obtain the necessary forms from the Buckinghamshire Council website and fill them out accurately.

b. Site and block plans: Provide detailed drawings of the existing property and the proposed extension, indicating its position in relation to the neighbouring properties.

c. Elevations and design details: Present the front, rear, and side elevations of the existing property and the proposed extension. Ensure that the design complements the existing architecture and adheres to local design guidelines.

d. Planning statement: Include a written statement outlining the reasons for the extension, its benefits, and how it aligns with local planning policies.

Submitting the Application
Submit the completed planning application to the Buckinghamshire Council along with the required fees. As of the time of writing, the fees may vary depending on the size and nature of the extension project. Once the council receives the application, they will carry out an initial validation process to ensure all necessary information is included.

The Decision Process
The planning authority will review the application in light of local planning policies, environmental impact, and any objections from neighbours or other stakeholders. They will also consider factors such as the impact on the surrounding area, the visual appearance of the extension, and potential concerns related to privacy or sunlight.

The decision process typically takes eight weeks from the date of validation, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the application.

Receiving the Decision
After the council has reached a decision, they will inform you in writing. There are three possible outcomes: approval, conditional approval, or refusal. If your application is approved, you can proceed with the construction as per the approved plans. In the case of conditional approval, you must address specific requirements before starting the project.

If your application is refused, you have the option to make necessary amendments and resubmit or appeal the decision within a designated timeframe.

Obtaining planning permission for a home extension in Buckinghamshire involves a well-prepared application and adherence to local planning policies. With careful research, a thoughtful design, and compliance with regulations, homeowners can successfully navigate the planning process and embark on their home extension journey in one of the most beautiful counties in the UK.

What type of house extensions can be built in the UK that are popular with homeowners?

In the UK, several types of house extensions are popular with homeowners, offering versatile options to meet various needs and preferences. These extensions not only increase living space but also enhance the functionality and value of the property. Some of the most popular house extensions include:

Single-Storey Rear Extension: This is one of the most common types of extensions, often added to the rear of the property. Single-storey extensions can expand the living area, create open-plan spaces, or accommodate a new kitchen, dining area, or a cosy family room. They are relatively straightforward to design and obtain planning permission for, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking to add practical space.

Two-Storey Extension: As the name suggests, a two-storey extension involves adding extra rooms or living space on two levels. This type of extension provides more substantial expansion possibilities, allowing homeowners to add multiple rooms, such as extra bedrooms, bathrooms, or a home office. A two-storey extension requires careful consideration of the property’s structural integrity and often involves more complex planning and construction processes.

Loft Conversion: Converting the loft into a usable living space is a popular choice, especially in properties with ample roof space. A loft conversion can be an economical way to add extra bedrooms, a home office, a playroom, or a guest suite. It typically involves less disruption to the existing layout of the house compared to other extensions.

Garage Conversion: Many homeowners opt to convert their existing garages into additional living space. Garage conversions are attractive as they often don’t require planning permission (subject to certain conditions) and can be transformed into various rooms like a home gym, a utility room, or an extended kitchen.

Conservatory or Orangery: Conservatories and orangeries provide bright and airy spaces, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. They are popular for creating a relaxing sunroom, a dining area, or a home office. Modern conservatories are designed to be energy-efficient, ensuring comfortable year-round use.

Side Extension: Side extensions involve extending the property along the side boundary. They are useful when there is limited space at the rear of the house or to create separate living areas, such as an additional reception room or a self-contained living space.

Wrap-around Extension: A wrap-around extension combines both rear and side extensions, maximising the available space and creating a significant increase in the property’s overall floor area. This option is suitable for larger properties with ample garden space.

Basement Conversion: For properties with an existing basement, converting it into habitable space is becoming increasingly popular. Basement conversions can add versatile living areas, such as home cinemas, playrooms, gyms, or wine cellars, providing valuable extra space without altering the building’s external appearance.

When considering any house extension, it’s essential for homeowners to consult with a professional architect or a building contractor to determine the feasibility, planning permission requirements, and potential cost implications of the chosen extension type. This ensures that the final extension meets their needs, complies with regulations, and seamlessly integrates with the existing property.

Looking for a professional and reliable home extension building service based in Buckinghamshire?

Check out the links below

Home extension builders in Thame
Home extension builders in High Wycombe

Further information
Applying for building regulations approval in Buckinghamshire