Self build conservatories have become a popular and cost effective way of adding extra space to your property. However, it is essential you ensure you are fully aware of any current legislation that could affect your plans.

We suggest that you check with your Local Authority planning office to confirm the precise regulations before commencing any building work. Additionally, we recommend that you check any specific clauses in your property deeds. As a general guide, if your conservatory falls within the following conditions you are unlikely to require Local Authority planning permission.

Detached Properties:

There is a maximum limit to extensions to this kind of property of 70m3 or 115%, whichever is greater. Note that this is the total for all extensions, so you must take into account any existing extensions to the property. If, after this, your conservatory falls under this 115% volume limit planning permission may not be required.

Semi-Detached Properties:

Semi-detached properties have the same restrictions as detached properties.

Terraced or End of Terrace Properties:

You need to take into account any existing extensions, however, with these types of properties the limit is 50m3.

Flats and Maisonettes:

Planning permission must be sought for any extension to this type of property.

The aforementioned only applies to extensions built after 1st of July 1948.

There are other considerations which will impact on whether you need to gain planning permission. At the time of writing, the following restrictions also apply:

• If your DIY conservatory is within 2m of your boundary, and the highest point of the conservatory at that junction is 4m or more.
• If your conservatory will cover your garden by 50% or more.
• If your planning and development rights have been removed or restricted.
• If the original property is grade II listed. However, it may still be possible to gain planning permission for a hardwood and glass structure.
• If your easy fit conservatory is to be located 20m or less from a road or public footpath.

Impacting your neighbours and your boundary:

When Local Authorities review planning applications they consider how a proposed development will impact on the applicant's neighbours and seek to ensure that there is no negative effect on their environment. We therefore suggest that you keep your planned conservatory to a reasonable size and that your projection to less than 3m.

Other information concerning your DIY conservatory:

If you do not require planning permission for your self build conservatory, consider obtaining written confirmation of this from the Local Authority planning office. Should you wish to sell your property in the future, having this document will help ensure a smooth transaction.

Even though you might not need official planning permission, you may still need to apply to the developer or builder of your property for permission. You should retain written records of all communications and transactions in case you wish to sell the property in the future.

This information is based on legislation in effect as of January 2005 and is subject to change. Legislation may differ by region and country so please check with your local planning officer before committing to any project. www.directgov.gov.uk