Can I Apply for Planning Permission Before Buying a House in the UK?
Buying a house is an exciting time, but in today’s market it is difficult to find what you need. Therefore, many homebuyers are looking for property with the potential for expansion. If you’re in the process of buying a house in the UK, you may be wondering if it’s possible to apply for planning permission before the purchase is complete. The short answer is yes. It is possible to apply for planning permission before buying a house, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
Do I need planning permission?
Firstly, it’s important to understand that planning permission is a legal requirement for certain types of development, such as building extensions, converting a property, and making changes to the exterior of a building. There are many projects which can be done without permission, these are called permitted developments. It’s important that you know whether your plans fall under permitted development. If you are unsure, you can speak to expert planning consultants, such as the team here at Stewart Management and Planning Solutions.
Is it worth applying before making an offer?
If you suspect your project will need planning permission, then there are a few things you must consider. When applying for planning permission, you’ll need to submit a detailed application to your local council. This application should include plans and drawings of your proposed project, as well as any relevant information about the site and its location. You will need to notify the owner of the property that you are applying for planning permission if you don’t own it yet. You must also sign a declaration saying that you have done this as part of the application process.
Time
The planning permission process can take several weeks or even months, this can be tricky if a house sale is dependent on permission. Additionally, your local council may require that you consult with the property neighbours or other stakeholders before your application can be approved. All of which will delay the sale and many sellers may not be patient enough to wait on an outcome.
Cost
You’ll need to pay a fee to submit your application. It is also advisable to seek expert advice to help you prepare your application. Whilst this is additional cost initially, the right guidance will save you both time and money in the long run.
Risks
It’s also worth noting that applying for planning permission before buying a house can be risky. There is no guarantee that the purchase will go through. Furthermore, if your planning application is denied, you may not be able to appeal the decision if you do not own the property.
Get in Touch!
If you decide to apply for planning permission prior to buying your property, call us today! Stewart Management and Planning Solutions are award-winning planning consultants in Hillingdon. We can guide you through the complex planning system to ensure the most time and cost-effective outcome. The initial consultation is free of charge, so it costs nothing to see if we can help!
