Multi Building Services

Government Rules on Home Improvements

Construction Specialists, Interior Design, Renovation, Refurbishments, Extensions & Conversions, Cambridge

 

The UK has a high percentage of small homes compared to other European countries, and most families struggle to have enough living and storage space. Many homes elsewhere take at least two bathrooms for granted, but we are used to queuing up outside one. This is one of the reasons extensions and loft conversions are so popular up and down the country in places like Cambridge and Brentwood. In fact people often prefer to upgrade their homes as opposed to moving house, as they may be happy in their environment. Perhaps they have established roots, made friends and found excellent schools or other facilities.

In recent years the government has temporarily relaxed some of the strict rules relating to these sorts of home improvements. Home owners in England, have been allowed to build bigger extensions without planning permission. These rules which permitted large rear single-storey extensions for instance, to be erected without planning permission, are now being made permanent. Extensions to terraced and semi-detached homes are now able to reach up to 6m, and detached houses can add even larger structures, up to 8m long. There will still however, be a process were neighbours are consulted, and may raise objections.

The temporary rules have been taken advantage of since 2013 by 110,000 home owners. Rather than waiting many months for approval, the council are notified of the proposals, and council officials inform neighbours. Any concerns raised are considered by the council, who decide whether or not to block the plans.

Kit Malthouse, Housing Minister said the change in England means “families can grow without being forced to move”. “These measures will help families extend their properties without battling through time-consuming red tape.”

Multi Building Services are experts in all aspects of building and home improvement work including extensions and loft conversions. We cover all areas in Essex and further afield, such as Cambridge and Brentwood. Call us on 01245 861 351 .

 

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    Multi Building Services Ltd

    Harvest House, Cedar Suite
    Lynderswood Business Park
    Lynderswood Lane
    Black Notley, Braintree
    CM77 8JT

    01245 861 351

    enquiries@mbs-group.uk