Many people decide to extend or convert their home rather than move. There are many options to go for, such as conservatories, garage or cellar conversions and renovations. Loft conversions in Cheshire are also popular as they make good use of otherwise unused and vacant space.
However, many people also don't know where they stand in terms of the law when planning to carry out such building works. For example, when do you need planning permission? Do you need to contact the council? How far are you allowed to extend?
Many standard home extensions do not need planning permission if they are minor but this should always be checked beforehand.
Some initial guidelines to think about when extending are:
The extension should not exceed 15%of the total house.
Roof extensions must not increase the height of the roof
The extension should not be near a pathway or road
Your house should not be made up of more than 50% extensions.
If you are planning any extension or renovation you need Building Regulations Approval. Building regulations are basically a set of rules which have been approved by the Government to make sure that the minimum construction standards are met. Sometimes, for example, you are not allowed to change the outer look of your house because it would not be in keeping with the rest of the neighbourhood.
The regulations also cover other issues such as safety, insulation and drainage.
If you contact a builder they will create a "Full Plan Submission" and send it to their local council. A builders in Wilmslow said "You will often find a regulator coming onto site and conducting site surveys to ensure that all the required standards are adhered to." You will then be advised of any problems the regulator has and suggestions to overcome this.