Construction

CWG Contracts Limited’s construction partner, Westcott Developments Ltd, will undertake all traditional construction issues and project management for your new large span conservatory.  Westcott will also be happy to undertake or tender any new build developments, renovation or extension projects you may be considering.   Click this link for more information westcottdevelopments.co.uk.

Do I need Planning Permission?
(This information applies to England and Wales only)

For a permanent large span conservatory it is quite likely you will need planning permission.  It is also likely that in all but the smallest enclosures, building regulation approval will be required.  In particular, note that permission is required for commercial use.

Approximately 60% of conservatories built will need planning permission.

Under present legislation you may not require planning permission, provided that you meet the following conditions:
 

Detached and Semi-detached Properties

You are allowed to develop up to 70m³ or 115% of the total volume of the dwelling, whichever is greater.  This, however, is a combination of the total amount of extensions, i.e. if you have already had a kitchen extension of 41m³ and require a conservatory of 45m³, this will total 86m³ - exceeding the 70m³ allowed, and planning will therefore be required.

Terraced or End Terrace Properties

Same as detached and semi-detached, but only 50m³ is allowed for development.

Flats or Maisonettes

This type of property has no permitted development rights and in all cases planning permission will apply - there are no exceptions.

Notable exceptions to the above are Listed Building and Conservation Areas.  Please note that if your property has been extended in the past, you will have used up some or perhaps all of your “permitted development” area and may need permission.  It is also worth noting that occasionally “permitted development” rights may be withdrawn from a property and that any extension, however small, needs planning.  If in doubt, check.

Building Regulation Approval

 

You should in all instances take local advice, as each Local Authority may be different.

Generally speaking, conservatories/sunrooms on residential property are exempt under Building Regulations, but this may be changing in the near future.

Below are some of the Exemption Criteria - under the Building Regulations 1991 (as amended).  These criteria must be met for a conservatory extension to be classified as exempt:

a) The extension has a completely transparent or translucent roof.

 

b) The extension walls are substantially glazed.  Must have at least half the area of the walls formed of windows.  Must have at least three quarters of the area of the roof formed of glazing, polycarbonate sheets or similar translucent material.

 

c) The extension has a floor area not exceeding 30m squared.

 

d) The extension is sited at ground level.

 

e) The extension is permanently separated from the remainder of the property by means of a door.

 

f) Any radiator within the conservatory is controllable (if fixed heating installations are proposed, they should have their own separate temperature and on/off controls).

 

g) The glazing satisfies the requirements of part N, Schedule 1 (toughened/safety glass).

 

h) The extension does not contain any drainage facilities (i.e. sink, WC, or washing machine).