Do I need planning permission to erect a conservatory?

Planning permission is usually not required in England and Wales, provided that:

• The size of the conservatory is within the "permitted development limit", which can vary betweem 50 and 70 m³, dependent upon local regulations. Bear in mind that if your home has been previously extended, some of this limit will already have been used up.

• The conservatory is not at the front of the property and does not project past the front line of the existing dwelling. (If it is - you will need to get planning permission

• The planned conservatory is more than 2m from the property boundary and smaller than 4m tall.

• Your house is not a listed building or within a conservation area.

• The conservatory will be used for domestic purposes only (ie not for business use).

In any event, it is wise to check with your local authority. We accept no responsibility if the above advice is incorrect as regulations change all the time. It is the houseowner's responsibility to ensure that planning permission is obtained if required.

Do I need building regulations approval?

Usually building regulations approval is not required, provided that:

• The proposed area is less than 30m² and built at ground level.

• Any radiators must be thermostatically controlled.

• The conservatory can be separated from the house by a door.

• Walls must be glazed more than 75%.

• The roof must be transparent / translucent.

• The glass used must be toughened, laminated, or very thick in order to satisfy building regs approved document N.

In any event, it is wise to check with your local planning officer. We accept no responsibility if the above advice is incorrect as regulations change all the time. It is the houseowner's responsibility to ensure that building regulations approval is obtained if required.