Homeowners at risk of breaching regulations

Homeowners at risk of breaching regulations

The SLC has warned that a temporary relaxation of rules relating to domestic extensions could spell trouble for home owners.

The society believes the regulations are open to misinterpretation and that instead of kick starting the economy they could bring financial woe for consumers.

Consumers are warned that while they may no-longer be required to apply for planning permission if their planned extension falls within these new boundaries, they are still bound by a series of obligations.

Any home extensions will still be subject to building regulations approval and may also require ‘build over’ permission from their local water company, if the property or planned extension encroaches on a public drain or sewer.

If consumers fail to secure these necessary approvals it could later lead to legal and remedial action, at their expense.

John Clay, Chairman of the SLC said: “It is very important for home owners to understand that these recent changes do not simply allow you to press ahead with a planned extension if it falls within the new permitted dimensions.

“You are still required to secure building regulations approval.

“Failure to do so could result in the council later requesting that you take down your extension — a costly and easily avoidable scenario, if you ensure you secure the necessary permissions up front.”

The SLC said that whilst the new process could significantly ease the process for thousands of home owners but they needed to be careful.

They urge any home owners who are planning to add an extension to contact their local council or to visit the Government’s planning portal (www.planningportal.gov.uk) for further information and clarification, before commencing with any planned building work.

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