Ashdown Works, Rossendale Place,
Shipley BD183PP

Extensions and Loft Conversions in Harrogate
| Domestic and Commercial Building Contractors Explain Permitted Development Rights

Whether discussing house extensions, loft conversions or home renovations, not every project requires planning permission. Do remember the golden rule, however: if your property in Harrogate or the surrounding areas will look differently from the street view, then you need to consult with your local authority. Alternatively, talk to our building contractors at Topspec Joinery & Construction Ltd. As domestic and commercial building contractors, we’ll be more than happy to offer advice and help you through the process of planning converted lofts, home extensions, house renovations or even commercial building services.

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What is Permitted Development? Our Building Company Explains

This refers to an instance where you can extend your home without planning permission, reducing a lot of stress whilst saving time and money. Permitted development won’t cover every renovation – there are rules regarding area, type of property in question, etc. – so make sure you’re fully appraised of what you can and can’t do.

Don’t start any project without doing research beforehand and checking with experienced domestic and commercial building contractors like ourselves at Topspec Joinery & Construction. Subject to the size of the home renovations in question, you should find the following will be allowed without issue:

  • Basement and Garage Conversions

  • Loft Conversions

  • Dormer Conversions

  • Certain Demolition Procedures

  • Garden Rooms and Outdoor Buildings

  • New Driveway with Sufficient Drainage

  • New Windows and Doors

  • Porches Less Than 3m³

  • Rooflights and Dormer Windows to the Rear*

  • Single- and Double-Storey House Extensions

  • Solar Panels and Satellite Dishes

  • Structural Alterations within the Home

*Single-storey side extensions can be increased to half the width of your Harrogate property’s original size and no further than 4m past the rear elevation. Double-storey rear home extensions must remain within 3m of the rear elevation only.

Permitted development does not apply to listed buildings or properties situated in areas of natural beauty, conservation areas or near national parks and world heritage sites. Homeowners who live in the Norfolk or Suffolk Broads are also restricted. You will definitely need to consult with your local authority and local contractors if your home falls into any of these categories.

Check For Updated Rights

The rules change regularly, so keep up-to-date with your local authority or talk to our building contractors at Topspec Joinery & Construction. Also, bear in mind that the guidelines will differ across the UK, so if you have a second home or property elsewhere, you may find yourself with alternative rules to follow.

Lawful Development Certificate

Our domestic and commercial building contractors strongly advise applying for this documentation as it indicates clearly that your home renovations, house extensions or loft conversions have been constructed within the allowed permitted development and are fully compliant with current guidelines.

An LDC is beneficial for instances where you decide to sell your Harrogate property or re-mortgage, as any potential questions or issues can be quickly addressed. 

Our building contractors can’t emphasise enough, however, the importance of seeking advice from an experienced and knowledgeable building company or your local authorities. Taking the time to do so now could save you a lot of effort, money and stress down the line. 

Don’t hesitate to contact your experienced and knowledgeable local contractors today regarding all types of loft remodels, dormer conversions, extensions, house renovations and more.

Call us now on 01274 200 600 to enquire about house extensions and loft conversions in Harrogate.

WHY USE A MASTER BUILDER?

Topspec Joinery & Construction Ltd is a proud member of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). All FMB members must:

  1. Meet strict qualifying criteria.

  2. Commit to a stringent Code of Conduct.

  3. Have a minimum 12-month trading history, public liability insurance and be subject to a strict vetting process.

Topspec Joinery & Construction Ltd can offer you a contract on your work and a warranty from FMB Insurance Services, assuring you of a better building experience.

USE A TRUSTED BUILDER – USE TOPSPEC JOINERY & CONSTRUCTION LTD