The question
Our clients live in a semi-detached house in Tiptree with an integral garage beneath a room above. They wanted to turn the garage into a living space, replacing the garage door with a window to match the house. They didn't want to make a full planning application if one wasn't needed. They did want written proof that the work was lawful, which helps when the house is eventually sold.
The evidence
We drew the house as existing and as proposed, with floor plans and elevations, and wrote a supporting statement. It set out three points:
- No extension. The work stays within the existing building, with no increase in footprint, height or volume, and no change to the roof or eaves.
- Inside works. The conversion is internal and keeps the house in the same use.
- New windows. The windows in place of the garage door and on the side fall within householder permitted development rights.
We also confirmed that no Article 4 direction or other restriction had removed those rights at this property.
The outcome
Colchester City Council granted the lawful development certificate. Our clients can convert the garage into a new dining room, knowing the work is formally confirmed as lawful.
