If you are considering making alterations to your property it is important to make sure that you have all necessary permissions before getting started.

Depending on what you are planning to do, you may need Planning Permission, a Building Warrant and/or Listed Building Consent from your local authority. Your architect can assist with this and with the completion of any necessary application forms.

Some alterations can be carried out as "permitted development" and therefore do not need permission but it is always best to check if you are unsure and to get written confirmation if that is the case. That will be very useful if there is a dispute further down the line as to whether or not local authority consents were required.

Once permission (if necessary) is given you should keep the paperwork (including the plans) safe as they may be required in the future. If you need a Building Warrant remember that once the work is finished you also need to apply to the local authority for a Completion Certificate.The paperwork is not complete, nor the works approved, until this is issued.

In addition to seeking permission from the local authority you should also check whether your mortgage provider needs to consent to the work. Usually alterations increase value in which case there shouldn't be a problem but it is always better to check in advance than have to deal with an issue at a later stage.

If alterations are carried out without the appropriate consents then you risk the local authority taking enforcement action against you which might result in any works having to be removed and the property reinstated to its original condition. You also risk delays and complications should you wish to sell the property in the future. You may have to make a retrospective application by which time the works may not comply with current regulations and permission may not be given.

Particular care needs to be taken if you live in a Conservation area or if you live in a listed building.

If you have any queries or would like to discuss the legal implications of making alterations to your property please contact our experienced team.