Property Change of Use and Planning Permission
Planning permission can be required to change the use of a property. This can be the case even if you’re not intending to do any redevelopment or building work.
If you want to change the commerical use of a property you will certain have to make an application. If you wanted to develop a property by converting it for multiple occupancy, there is a good chance you will need to think about the implications of change of use.
We’ve outlined an introduction to changing the use of your property as well as some of the considerations you need to think about for securing the relevant permission.
Understanding property use classes
Properties are divided into classes, depending on their use. Guides to property use classes can be found on the internet, some links are included below.
These can help you find out the existing class of your property. Though, ultimately, it is local planning authorities who decide which class your property falls under.
• http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/changeofuse/
• http://www.p4l.co.uk/guidtocomuse.html
• http://www.planning-applications.co.uk/uconewclasses.htm
Changing the property class
Property change of use can mean it needs to be reclassified, which will need planning permission. You will need to secure the relevant permission from your local authority, before starting on any alteration projects. This is something that your architect will be able to help you with.Â
It is advisable, prior to purchasing or renting a property, to find out if you will need planning permission to change the use. It is also worth enquiring how likely you are to secure the necessary permission. Also, bear in mind that planning permission may still be required for other work being done to the property.
Not all changes of use require permission
There are occasions where a change of use doesn’t need planning permission. If both the present and the proposed new use of the property fall within the same class, then permission is not usually needed. A bookshop, for example, could be turned into a clothes shop without planning permission.Â
There are also instances where even changing the property use class doesn’t require permission, such as turning a restaurant into a shop. But, as planning permission is likely to be required for any significant property change of use, it is a good idea to secure guidance from your architect and local authorities before making any assumptions about planning requirements.
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To find out more about property change of use and planning permission considerations, feel free to get in touch with us.
