Do you need planning permission to increase a bungalow?
Whether or not you would like planning permission for extending your bungalow all depends on how you want to form changes.
If you’re looking to feature more room with a loft conversion it’s possible you won’t require planning permission. A regular skylight loft extension commonly falls under ‘permitted development’ – in other words, you don’t need planning permission to possess one.
However, with Dormer or Mansard loft conversions, you’ll have to seek permissions.
‘Yes and no’ says Nick Varey at Studio Varey Architects. ‘Some permitted development rights do exist for houses that provide the addition of roof extensions (40 cubic metres for terraced properties, 50 cubic metres for detached). It’s important to test whether your property still has its Permitted Development right. Some properties have had them removed because the property is found during a certain area, like a Conservation Area or Green Belt.’
It’s always best to test your rights before embarking on a building project. Avoiding planning permission restrictions is sweet news because the planning process is a protracted and tricky one.
However, special rules and guidelines govern conservation areas and listed buildings. If your home is listed, you may need Listed Building Consent. And if you reside during a conservation area you’ll need permission for any dormers or extensions.
How much does it cost to increase a bungalow?
‘For building cost estimates budget somewhere within the region of £250 – £350 per area unit as a benchmark’ Nick advises. ‘If you are doing have to rebuild from the bottom up, this might constitute a brand new build home. You’d then qualify for zero per cent VAT, which represents a big saving.’
Can you add a second floor to a bungalow?
‘Yes. Changes to the Permitted Development rights introduced in August 2020 give the potential to feature an extra storey to some homes across the united kingdom, without the requirement for planning permission’ Nick explains. ‘But we do caution that prior approval, which differs from planning permission, remains required. Your appointed Architect can advise on this’
