I'd like to put a two storey extension on the back of my house.....?

Question

what laws do I need to abide by? Do I need planning permission? Any help at all on this would be extremely useful, thank you.

Answer 1

Planning permission yes absolutely. You apply in writing with design of what you want to do. Get your architect to do it for you. You also have to inform the neighbours.

Building Control as well - whatever you build must be compliant with all the myriad construction codes so that it doesn't fall down or wash away in your delightful eeenglish weather. Your architect has to sort that out.

There's also a brand new EU directive on energy performance of buildings. Complying with that could save you some filthy wonga in the long term so don't skimp.

And you need to decide how you're gonna heat it. I say wood-fired stove with back boiler, and passive solar panels to top up the hot water in sunnier months. I'm contemplating that right now but I haven't figured out how to do it yet. If your heating needs replacing throughout, consider micro CHP (google it!)

You could also cut your water bill by using your "grey water". If there's a toilet in the extension, collect the rainwater from the gutters and use that to flush the loo.

If you're in Ken Livingstone's area, you have to check out the new rules he's laying down for energy efficiency as well - they are fairly strict, but no bad thing IMHO

Answer 2

Well being that big, you would need to apply for planning permission in case it affects other people, for example, your neighbours might not want that much shadow or it may affect them in some other way. You would probably need to get plans drawn up to show the council and then people have, I think, 21 days to object. If no one objects, you will probably get permission.

Answer 3

u need to check with ur local council how far u can extend and u will prob have 2 apply and pay 4 planning permission b4 u satrt the work (b aware that even if u pay the fees 4 application they can still deny permission)

Answer 4

I guess it depends upon where you live. In the UK you would almost certqainly need planning permission, and very possibly site surveys would be needed to see that you've obeyed rules and regulations.

As others have suggested contact your local county council (assuming you live in the UK).

Answer 5

You will need a building code permit that allows you to build onto your existing home and make sure you do not build over sewer lines or power lines and plumbing...
Some things that are located under ground need to be accessible to the city codes and you can't build over them, so you will also need a surveyor to survey the land...

Answer 6

You certainly would for an extension of that size I imagine - and if not sure, you should never risk it - always check. Contact the planning office of your local council.

Answer 7

Go to city hall and ask them. They will tell you everything you need. If you don't plan on doing everything yourself, a good, reputable contractor will tell you what you need. You definitely need a building permit since it will be connected to your exsisting house. You'll need drawings of your extension.

Answer 8

codes vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.. first thing you might wanna do is go to the local building office, where you'd get the permit, and ask them.. lot easier than having to tear something down later..

Answer 9

you can make your own plans, all you need is the construction notice to post before you start