Before offer submission, can we extend on dream property?

e_sonny_jim

Hi Everyone,

My wife and I have recently found a house that we are considering making an offer on. We're attracted by the fact that we can potentially extend to the side and (hopefully) add value in the long run.

However, is there anyway that we can find out if such an extension is possible before we put our offer in?

If the extension is a no-go then that would change our view dramatically.

Any advice or pointers would be very much appreciated!!

Thanks,

e_sonny_jim

Fuzzyness

it is possible that you could extend using your permitted development rights. have a look at this guide which says what would be permitted without needing to submit a planning application.

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/extensions

if what you want to do is larger than what would be permitted by permitted development, you could speak to the duty planner at your council and get a view as to what you had in mind would be acceptable or not, although the problem you've got is that you dont have any plans yet for them to look at.

AndyBSG

Also, you can apply for planning permission before you purchase the property. You don't have to own the property to apply for planning permission and many developers will apply for permission before buying the property to ensure they can make the changes they want

Of course, you'll have to pay the fees involved with applying for it and if they're unsuccessful then you've lost that money but if they're successful then you already have the planning permission you need from the day you purchase the property until it expires.

Fire_Fox

Welcome! Is your proposed extension within permitted development anyway? Speak informally to the planning department at the local council.

Yorkie1

Have there been many similar extensions on identical houses in the street? That would tend to support an argument that the local authority should grant PP if required, assuming nothing specific is different with the house.