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ARCHITECTURE - BUILDING - DESIGN - STUDIO
Permitted Development
Need help with your Permitted Development project?
Some rights allow home extensions or change of use, but many require prior approval. Navigating this process can be complex due to its technical nature. That’s why having a chartered planner on board is essential to understand what’s allowed, what constraints apply, and how to move forward with confidence.
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Key Facts About Permitted Development Rights in the UK
Permitted development allows you to carry out certain works without needing formal planning permission, as long as you comply with the rules set out in national and local policy. This may include home extensions, change of use, or specific installations like solar panels or outbuildings.
However, these rights are not automatic. Hidden restrictions, such as conservation areas, listed buildings, or Article 4 directions, can limit or remove your ability to use PD rights. That’s why it’s essential to check thoroughly before committing time or investment.
A well-informed due diligence process can save you from delays, refusals or unnecessary costs.
Key recommendations before starting your project:
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Check whether your property is subject to special restrictions, such as Conservation Areas, Article 4 directions or heritage listings, review which PD rights apply to your intended works, whether it’s an extension, conversion or change of use, look into the planning history of your site and neighbouring properties, to identify precedents or potential objections, consider whether prior approval is required, especially for visual impact, traffic or infrastructure concerns, seek expert advice from a chartered planning consultant, to confirm compliance and avoid common mistakes, prepare clear documentation, including drawings, descriptions and justifications to support any review or submission.
Having expert guidance from the outset can make all the difference between a smooth process and a costly setback.
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Includes:
Tailored policy assessment based on project type and location, review of local constraints and applicable PD rights, analysis of planning history for your site and neighbouring properties, advice on prior approval requirements and technical documentation, guidance on common risks and how to avoid them, delivery of a technical report with clear recommendations to move forward confidently
Got questions about your planning development?
Book a session with our planning experts and get the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.
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Confirming Your Project Qualifies for Permitted Development
Planning Permission for Extensions, Protected Areas or Listed Buildings
If your project involves a large outbuilding, a home extension, or work in a conservation area or on a listed building, planning permission is likely to be required.
At A-B-D-S Architectural Studio, we offer tailored Pre-Planning Guidance to help you understand exactly what your project needs—from potential restrictions to approval likelihood and associated costs. Our team prepares a clear, personalised Pre-Planning Appraisal, so you can move forward with confidence and clear Planning Permission for Extensions, Protected Areas or Listed Buildings
If your project involves a large outbuilding, a home extension, or work in a conservation area or on a listed building, planning permission is likely to be required.
Do You Qualify for Permitted Development?
Permitted Development Isn’t Always Straightforward
Each type of project—whether an extension, conversion or new structure—must meet specific planning and design criteria to qualify as Permitted Development. But even when the design seems compliant, hidden constraints like local restrictions or property history can affect eligibility. Two identical homes on the same street might propose the same extension, yet only one qualifies under PD while the other requires full planning permission. At A-B-D-S,we help you uncover these nuances early, so your proposal is both realistic and well-prepared.
Avoid Planning Pitfalls with Our PD Expertise
Retrospective Planning: When PD Wasn’t Enough
Many clients come to us after realising their project didn’t actually fall under Permitted Development. If the local authority determines that planning permission was required, you may receive an enforcement notice—often demanding a formal application within 28 days or, in some cases, the full reversal of the works, including demolition. At A-B-D-S Estudio de Arquitectura, we regularly support clients through Retrospective Planning Applications, working diligently to resolve issues and secure positive outcomes.
Securing Your Build Through Permitted Development Compliance
Why Formal Planning Routes Are Worth It
We always recommend applying for a Lawful Development Certificate or a Householder Planning Application. These routes help prevent neighbour disputes and avoid legal complications down the line. Plus, having formal approval in place—especially a Certificate of Lawfulness—can significantly boost your property’s value when it’s time to sell.
Here’s what our clients have to say about working with us.
Sarah Thompson – Residential customer
I had no idea where to begin with my house extension. The advice was clear, quick and really professional. Now I know exactly what steps to take.