Are you considering the addition of a garden room to your home in Oxford (shire)? Before embarking on this exciting project, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the essential rules and regulations governing the construction of garden buildings. In this summative blog post, we will guide you through the basics of planning permission, building regulations, permitted development rights, and other crucial considerations for your garden room project. We will also signpost you to sites with further information and guidance.
Planning Permission and Building Regulations
Planning permission and building regulations are the primary guidelines that cover the construction of a garden room. Planning permission ensures that the building adheres to appropriate design standards, while building regulations guarantee the structure’s safety and compliance with specific standards such as insulation, fire safety, and structural integrity. Both must be considered before starting any work.
Often, planning permission is not required for building a garden room, as it can be carried out under permitted development rights. A garden room can also be exempt from building regulations depending on its size and intended use.
To find out more about:
- Planning permission and how Permitted Development Rights apply to Garden Rooms please see our recent blog post… Navigating Garden Room Regulations in Oxfordshire: A Comprehensive Guide to Planning Permission and Permitted Development
- Building regulations and how the Exemptions apply to Garden Rooms please see our recent blog post… Navigating Building Regulations for Your Garden Room – A Comprehensive Guide
Covenants and Restrictions on Development
A covenant is a legal agreement between parties who own or use land, typically restricting certain developments. Separate from planning regulations and unrelated to the local authority, you can determine whether your property is subject to a covenant by checking your title deeds. Seek legal advice if in doubt.
Drains and Services
When building in your garden, it’s crucial to care for drains and services running through your space. Neglecting this can be costly or, worse, pose serious safety risks. While obtaining a build-over agreement with water authorities is usually straightforward, other utilities may need adjustment. Conduct relevant searches and checks before construction to avoid potential issues.
Conclusion:
Building a garden room is an exciting project that enhances property value, but it’s vital to be aware of all applicable rules. This includes planning permission, building regulations, covenants, restrictions on development, and considerations for drains and services. Aybel Spaces based in Oxford specialises in designing and constructing various garden rooms. Our experts can advise and assist you in ensuring that your dream project is not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe and compliant with all regulations.
