At DK Home Refurbishment, we have worked with countless homeowners across North, North West , Central and West London who were ready to improve their homes but were unsure where to begin with planning permission. If you are thinking about a house extension in London, one of the most important steps is understanding what is required before you build.
The truth is, the planning process in London can feel overwhelming, especially with different rules depending on your borough, property type, or even your street. We are here to help you make sense of it all.
Do You Always Need Planning Permission?
Not always. Some homeowners are surprised to find that their extension might fall under what is known as Permitted Development Rights. This means that your project could be allowed without needing a full planning application.
But there are limits. For example:
- If your extension is at the back and stays within a certain size
- If you are not altering the height of your home
- If the materials match your existing property
- If your home is not in a conservation area or listed
We always advise checking with your local council first. Even if you think your project qualifies, some areas in London have stricter controls that remove permitted development rights.
Why We Recommend a Lawful Development Certificate
Even if you do not need planning permission, we still recommend applying for a Lawful Development Certificate. It proves that your project meets the legal requirements and protects you if there are questions in the future.
Many of our clients who plan to sell their property later find this certificate especially helpful when dealing with buyers or solicitors.
Keep Your Neighbours in the Loop
We believe in keeping things smooth and neighbourly. If your extension involves a shared wall or is close to another property, you may need to follow the Party Wall Act.
We always suggest letting neighbours know about your plans early. In our experience, a simple conversation can prevent misunderstandings and make the process easier for everyone involved.
We Know What Each London Borough Expects
London is not one-size-fits-all when it comes to planning. What works in Haringey might not pass in Wandsworth. That is why we tailor every project to meet local requirements.
From preparing architectural drawings to submitting applications, our team takes care of the technical side so you can focus on the exciting part of your new space.
Special Considerations for Conservation Areas and Listed Properties
If your home is in a conservation area or is listed, the rules are more detailed. You will need full planning permission, and possibly listed building consent. These applications are reviewed carefully and often require traditional designs and materials.
We have worked on many of these types of properties and understand the level of care needed to meet the council’s expectations while still achieving your goals.
Timing and Budget Planning
Planning applications usually take between eight and twelve weeks, depending on the borough and complexity of your project. We always help our clients build realistic timelines and plan for the additional costs of drawings, consultants, and council fees.
Taking time at the start means fewer surprises later on.
Why choose us for house extension in London?
At DK Home Refurbishment, we believe that extending your home should be exciting not stressful. With the right support and a clear plan, you can avoid delays and move forward with confidence. Below are some of the works we finished
If you are ready for house extension in North, North West , Central and West London, we are here to help you from start to finish. Contact us today to get started.
