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DEMOLITION PLANNING PERMISSION

When searching for a piece of land to build that dream home, you’ll most probably find an existing property already standing in the way. Question is, when analysing its condition, do you choose to restore, extend and refurbish the existing property to suit your preferences and add value, or demolish the whole, or part of the building and start from scratch.

Most property developers and buyers looking to take on a project generally go for the latter, since the VAT for remodelling and extension work in the UK is 20%, while a new home have no VAT charges.

Apart from finding an experience professional building demolition company, you need to get permission from the local authorities before commencing with the demolition process. However, some buildings do not require consent, while the relevant government authorities may control demolition in some areas.

The necessity of planning permission depends on whether you are demolishing an entire building or part of the property. The size of the building and the environmental impact of the demolition are also vital considerations. In this article we look at some of the rules and regulations that govern house demolitions.

Small Buildings and Structures

If the house or structure has an external volume below 50 cubic metres, you do not need planning permission. However, you may need the to get the method of the actual demolition approved if the building is unsafe through deliberate actions.

Listed Buildings

Listed buildings are notable historical or architectural buildings with cultural significance. Over 500,000 buildings fall into this category in the United Kingdom, alongside structures, sculptures, mileposts and war memorials. You will need listed building consent from the council to alter, extend or demolish a listed building, and can find out if a building falls in this category by checking the Historic Environment Division database. Sometimes they list a terrace of buildings as opposed to individual houses or a street address, so make sure you receive the consent before hiring a demolition contractor to start work.

Buildings in Conservation Areas

Planning permission for unlisted houses in a conservation area depends on the location of the building. In Wales, you will not require planning permission for buildings below 115 cubic metres. However, for larger buildings, you must apply for Conservation Area Consent.

Buildings in conservation areas in England require planning permission regardless of the size. England does not have a Conservation Area Consent, but you may need other consents for buildings listed with Scheduled Ancient Monuments.

Structures in conservation areas also require permission before demolishing them. If a gate, railing, fence, or wall is a metre high and close to the highway or on a public space, you will need demolition permission. However, in other locations, the structure needs to be two metres to warrant the local authorities’ consent.

Other Buildings

Certain development rights permit contractors to demolish the whole build without planning permission, however, you need to seek approval of the demolition method beforehand. Some of the exceptions to the rule include:

– Demolishing buildings that are uninhabitable due to neglect or deliberate action. If the building requires a few repairs to make it safe, you will need planning permission to demolish the structure.

– Drinking establishments like pubs require planning permission before demolition, especially in the Asset of Community Value database.

– Concert halls and venues for live music performances also require permission for demolition.

If a building’s urgent demolition is necessary due to health and safety concerns, then a demolition company does not have to comply with the approval process, however, they must provide written justification.

Demolishing Parts of a Building

Permitted development rights are invalid when you are demolishing parts of a building since you are making structural alterations, this can also be referred to as a partial strip out work in the demolition industry. Therefore, you need planning permission from the local authorities to demolish parts of a building.

When planning any demolition project, it is advised checking beforehand if you need actual planning permission. You should also confirm if you need other consents before starting any work.

Additional consents include Part Wall Act notices and building regulations approval, among others. Some buildings also require an environmental impact assessment before demolition work can start, which necessitates planning permission.

In summary, this article should only be used as a guide, it is crucial to do your own research and get the necessary consent to avoid an enforcement notice, which may force you to rebuild what you have demolished!

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When you are next researching for a quality and competitive demolition company for whatever construction project, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team, we offer a free quote and site survey.

Call us today on 01322920 053 to get a quote for your next demolition project.

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