Block up garage door, need planning permission or building regs?
Anonymous user 03/03/2024 - 3.16 PM
We have an attached double garage with bedrooms above, looking to block up one of the garage doors with brick and add a window and/or a door.
We know the footings are good enough as it's a 2 storey building.
The garage door has been broken for 10+ years and actually has shelving units in front of it. We have no intention of changing the use. The garage will be kept the same for storage, for motorbikes, lawnmower etc and securing the tools of family members.
Just wondering if we can brick up one of the doors and add a window under permitted development or would we need planning permission? Would building regs need to inspect the block work? Window would be fensa installed
Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?
Planning permission is not usually required, providing the work does not involve enlarging the building.
Sometimes permitted development rights have been removed from some properties with regard to garage conversions and therefore you should contact your local planning authority before proceeding, particularly if you live a conservation area. Where work is proposed to a listed building, listed building consent may be required.
As the foundation to your existing garage is likely to be traditional, and you do not want to change the use of the garage /store to a habitable space there is no require approval under the Building Regulations for the block work or window installation.
Regarding the changes to the elevation you would not usually require Planning Permission as long as the house was not listed or within a conservation area. It is always recommended to speak with your local council's planning department to check this or check their website for advice. Should your property not fall within any of the above you should be able to carry out the work under Permitted Development.
Regarding your second point, you would not usually require Building Regs approval for the works you are proposing but this depends on what the proposed use of the space will be.
