The UK Government has launched a consultation over whether homeowners should have the right to build extensions that are larger without planning permission.
Ministers are mulling changes to the permitted development rights which allow householders to enlarge their homes, make alterations or extensions to the roof, and "construct buildings incidental to the enjoyment of the main house, such as bin and bike stores".
The consultation document states: "We are proposing amendments to certain rights that allow for the upward extension of a range of existing buildings and allow for the demolition of certain buildings and rebuild as homes. The proposed changes will increase the scope of buildings that can benefit from the right."
Remove curtilage restrictions for rear and side extensions
Currently, extensions must not exceed more than 50% of the land surrounding the house, known as the 'curtilage', but officials are considering raising the percentage.
The proposal also seeks feedback about amending the limitation that extensions must be a minimum of seven metres from the boundary of its curtilage (which is opposite the rear wall of the house being enlarged) so that it only applies if the adjacent use is residential. This limitation would not apply where the adjacent use is non-residential.
Officials are also seeking input over whether permitted development rights should allow for single-storey wrap around L-shaped extensions (which extend across the rear and one side of a home).
Permitted development rights allow for a rear and side extension, however, it does not permit wrap around extensions which extend across the rear and side elevation.
The document states that wrap around extensions can provide householders with further flexibility for new room usage, support open-plan living and increase access to natural light and outdoor space.
The proposals could have a significant impact on homeowners considering how to add a two storey extension to their property.
Allowances for roof extensions to be increased
The limit on roof extensions not exceeding the original roof space by more than 40 cubic metres for terraced houses or 50 cubic metres for other property types could also be scrapped.
The document states: "We are proposing changes to this permitted development rights so that roof space can be maximised to provide additional living space for householders.
"We want to support householders to make the changes they need to meet today’s living demands and maximise the usability of space within their homes."
Changes to loft conversion regulations aim to relax 'setback' requirements
Currently, building regulations state loft extensions should not exceed the original roof space by more than 40 cubic metres in terrace houses, or 50 cubic metres in all other cases, and should be set back at least 20cm from the original eaves.
The proposed new rules are that as much loft space as is available can be used and there is no set back requirement if not visible from the street.
"We consider that the limit on the volume of additional roof space created could restrict the extent of loft extensions, meaning that the space is not maximised in all cases," the document adds.
"We propose that this limitation is removed so that householders can convert as much of their loft space as is available."
