How to Navigate Planning Permission in London: A Homeowner’s Guide
Planning a home extension, loft conversion, or major renovation in London? Then you’ve probably heard the phrase “planning permission” more than a few times. But what does it really involve—and how can you ensure your project moves forward without unnecessary delays?
At BuilderHunts LTD, we guide London homeowners through every step of the design and build process—including all the necessary planning approvals. Here’s a simple, no-nonsense guide to help you understand planning permission, permitted development, and building regulations—plus how our team takes the stress out of it all.
What Is Planning Permission?
Planning permission is formal approval from your local London council to carry out certain types of building work. It’s designed to ensure your project is suitable for your property, neighbours, and the surrounding area.
You’ll likely need planning permission if you’re:
- Building a rear or side extension beyond permitted size limits
- Adding a double-storey extension
- Making changes to a listed building
- Developing in a conservation area
- Altering the roof shape or height significantly
What Is Permitted Development?
Not all home improvement projects require full planning permission. Some fall under permitted development rights (PD)—rules that allow certain types of extensions and loft conversions without a formal application.
Typical examples of PD-eligible projects include:
- Loft conversions with dormers (within height/volume limits)
- Rear extensions within 3m (terraced/semi) or 4m (detached homes)
- Side extensions under 4m in height and half the width of the house
- Adding rooflights or skylights (without altering the roofline)
⚠️ Important: London boroughs may apply stricter rules, especially in conservation areas or flats. Always check before building.
What Are Building Regulations?
Even if you don’t need planning permission, you’ll still need to follow building regulations. These cover the safety, structural integrity, energy efficiency, and accessibility of your project.
Examples of works that need building regulations approval:
- Loft conversions
- House extensions
- New kitchens or bathrooms with structural changes
- Electrical or plumbing alterations
- Installing new windows or doors
At BuilderHunts LTD, we prepare and submit all necessary building regulations drawings, liaise with inspectors, and ensure your project passes all checks.
How the Process Works with BuilderHunts LTD
- Initial Consultation
We assess your property, understand your goals, and advise if your project falls under permitted development or needs planning permission. - Measured Survey & Design
Our team carries out a survey and produces detailed architectural drawings tailored to London regulations. - Planning Submission (If Needed)
We handle the entire planning application, including design statements, neighbour consultation letters, and communication with the local council. - Building Regulations & Structural Design
Once approved, we prepare building regulations drawings and structural calculations, ensuring your home is safe, compliant, and build-ready. - Construction Management
Our experienced site team takes over, delivering a smooth, high-quality build—all in-house.
Planning Tips for London Homeowners
✅ Know your borough’s rules: Each council (e.g. Camden, Hackney, Hounslow) has its own guidelines. We tailor every submission to suit.
✅ Factor in party wall agreements: If your project involves shared walls or boundaries, you may need to serve notice under the Party Wall Act.
✅ Plan for timelines: Planning permission decisions can take 8 weeks or more. Start early and allow time for revisions if needed.
✅ Be neighbour-aware: Strong objections can impact approval. We advise on how to minimise disruption and keep neighbours on side.
✅ Don’t guess—get expert support: Many planning refusals come from avoidable mistakes in drawings, paperwork, or misinterpretation of rules.
Why Homeowners Choose BuilderHunts LTD
- ✅ 100% Planning Submission Success (in PD and standard applications)
- ✅ In-house architectural & structural design team
- ✅ Local knowledge of all major London boroughs
- ✅ End-to-end service: concept to construction
Thinking of Extending or Converting?
Whether you’re dreaming of a light-filled loft, a spacious kitchen extension, or a full home renovation, BuilderHunts LTD is here to make it happen—without planning headaches.
📞 Contact us today for a free consultation and find out what’s possible under your roof.
📍 Serving homeowners across London and surrounding boroughs.
