What type of application will we submit to the planning department?

There are several different types of application:

• application for a certificate of lawfulness

• application for prior approval under the larger homes scheme

• householder planning application

We will advise on the most appropriate type of submission for you.

CERTIFICATE OF LAWFULNESS

Most houses in England benefit from certain types of work that do not require planning approval. These have specific limits and sizes, and are different depending on whether your house is terraced, semi-detached, or detached. All of our designs are intended to work within these limits with small adjustments. If your required design falls within these limits, we will apply for a 'certificate of lawfulness' to confirm that the proposals are acceptable to the planners. This certificate confirms to future purchasers of the house that the extension is lawful. The huge benefit of this route is that there is no consultation with neighbours, and the planners are simply checking that the proposals fall within the permitted limits.

https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200187/your_responsibilities/37/planning_permission/3

PRIOR APPROVAL UNDER THE LARGER HOMES SCHEME

The larger homes scheme allows single storey rear extensions to be built up to double the length of a permitted development extension. The planners will consult with your neighbours to see if they object, and if they do, the planners will consider whether the proposal is acceptable. If the neighbours do not object, then the planners should allow the extension.

https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200130/common_projects/17/extensions/2

PLANNING APPLICATION

A householder planning application may be required if:

• your required design exceeds the limited of your home's permitted development rights.

• you live in a flat

• you live in a listed building

• your house is in a conservation area, national park, or similar protected area

• a previous planning approval has removed your home's permitted development rights

This type of application will allow your neighbours and other relevant organisations to comment on your application, and the local authority will consider national, regional and local policies to see whether the submission can be approved.

https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200126/applications/60/consent_types/2