Using an existing lean-to as utility space?

Firsthome123

I recently purchased a property with an old lean-to conservatory on the side of the house (1.2m width x 4m). It is built onto an external brick wall and its only entrance is via an external door. It looks like an outdoor space but is water tight.

I had an idea of moving our washing machine, dryer and sink into this space. Perhaps even an additional electric hob into this space.

Since it is an existing structure (10+ years) - do building regulations apply to drainage and electrical installation?

I have been researching for hours and on Planning Portal but there are mixed messages. Apparently building control is needed to install a sink/washing machine in a new conservatory. Planning Portal says permission is needed for "fixed electrical installation" on a new build. Neither mentions what is required for an existing lean-to.

Fairly inexperienced here, so would appreciate any advice/ thoughts. Many thanks.

markin

Is it heated, insulated? You can't have a washing machine, dryer and sink exposed to freezing conditions it will damage them.


You could have a spark put in 2 double 'outside sockets', and a plumber put in a utility sink. Just don't tell anyone for 4 years.

Firsthome123

Thanks Markin! No there is no heating and no insulation - but that's a good point!!

What is the relevance of 4 years?

Davesnave

After 4 years the council won't be able to chase you for a breach of planning, but I'm not sure that's relevant, as it's essentially an outbuilding and it would be building regulations you'd need to comply with to install electricity and plumbing.

However, if a properly qualified spark installed the leccy, they could certify the installation, giving you no problems there when you want to sell.

The drainage is more tricky, though. If you can get waste water (sensibly) into an outside drain which leads to the sewer, that's fine, but if you'll need to install a gully and break into a sewer pipe, installing an inspection chamber, then you are into building regs and getting the work passed properly.


The matter of frost protection might be handled by thermostatically controlled electric heater tubes and some careful insulation.

Firsthome123

Thank you for your helpful response Davesnave!

Where I was thinking about placing the washing machine and sink, is actually under a metre away from the outdoor tap and manhole, if that makes the job easier.

Next steps - finding a plumber and electrician. Plenty to think about, but thanks again.

markin

Is it not a change of use? Going from a Conservatory to a Utility room?

Anyway, my condensing dryer will not turn on under 10C, it is old and not a heat pump version but its in the manual! check your manual.

And if any water is left in washers drain pump or tubes it could do damage, And also most freezers also need 18C and you have to get different kind for cold spaces.

Davesnave

markin wrote: »

Is it not a change of use? Going from a Conservatory to a Utility room?

It's a lean-to, which many people use for this sort of thing.

We had one here originally and it did get cold, so we had to use a heater on really bad nights to stop things freezing-up. Survived -15c that way, but I agree, not ideal.


Freezers next door in the unheated, draughty garage had no problems.

in_my_wellies

How long are you planning to live there? My ex next door neighbour first put up a carport with open ends and side, then she added a plastic side, then a back and then garage doors. This was over several years probably starting in about 1975.
The back wall was changed to wood then brick with a proper door, the side is now wood and the garage door now an automatic one supported by a brick wall sides and top.
By now it's like a room with all utilities in there
I doubt she ever thought about planning permission or regs