Permitted Developments Harrow

Most landlords will be looking to make the best returns on their portfolios. Finefair Ltd can help. There may be an opportunity to develop or convert properties to increase their yield. For example, you may be able to create a HMO or extend to create more living space. But, you need to make sure you can legally proceed with these projects. We can help, offering insights into the permitted developments Harrow council allows and more.

What is planning permission?

Permitted Developments HarrowUsually if you plan a change to a property you will need planning permission. This is approval from the local council to say that your project is lawful. However, there are a number of cases when you can make changes to a building without it. You have this ability thanks to permitted development rights. They are very useful for you and help to speed up your projects.

The thing to remember about PDRs is they are not always available. While the UK Government can grant them, local councils have the authority to adapt or remove them. They have this power to preserve local areas. So, it is wise to check.

Extensions

One of the most interesting permitted developments Harrow council allows is extensions. House owners can extend a terrace or semi-detached home by up to six metres and add up to 8 metres to a detached home. You don’t need planning permission for this but will require Prior Approval. You have to provide basic information about your proposal when you apply for it. Plus, you must speak to your neighbours to make them aware of the proposal.

Even here you may not always be able to proceed. There are other permitted development rules that you must adhere to. In addition, you often cannot combine the extension with other developments, even if you have permission for these.

Conservation areas

It is also important to remember that the rules are different in conservation areas. There are currently 29 of them in Harrow, split into four groups. The Borough has a series of Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) for them. The documents analyse the character of the areas and then help to shape the planning policy. As a result, you need planning permission for any projects that require demolition or major changes to the look of a building.

Listings

There are also limitations on developments for any properties that have a listing. These listings supersede any PDRs because the buildings have significant historical or cultural value. So, if you have a property that is listed, you will likely not be able to proceed with any project if you don’t get planning approval.

HMOs

There are also a number of rules for HMOs in Harrow. You need to ensure you can legally convert a property into a HMO. Plus, you must make sure the bedrooms meet minimum spatial requirements. Conversions must comply with building regulations too. Finally, HMO owners must get a license.

Ask us about permitted developments in Harrow

Finefair Ltd works with a number of landlords to maximise their income from their investment properties. We can do this by offering a number of great services, including guaranteed rent and portfolio management. If you would like us to, we can even review portfolios and look for opportunities to develop them into HMOs to increase your earnings.

So, why not speak to us today about how you can take your portfolio to the next level? We can work with you to look at the permitted developments Harrow allows and other projects that will need permission. You can then decide on the right strategy for you.