Planning advice
Planning can be technical, but the first explanation should not be. Use these answers as a starting point, then get advice that reflects your property and local context.
It depends on the property, the work and local constraints. Some changes may fall within permitted development rights; others require a householder or full application. Listed buildings, flats, previous conditions and designated areas need particular care.
Permitted development is a national planning route that allows certain work without a conventional planning application, provided every relevant limitation and condition is met. A lawful development certificate can provide useful formal confirmation.
No. Planning considers the acceptability of development; building regulations deal with matters such as structure, fire safety, ventilation, insulation and accessibility. A project may need one, both or, in some cases, neither.
Timeframes vary by application type and authority workload. The formal determination period is only part of the programme: survey, design, consultation, validation and possible revisions also need allowance.
Potentially. The right route depends on what was built, when, whether it differs from an approval and which planning or building-control requirements apply. Start with an honest review of the documents and site.
A sensible planning check
