Conservatories are exempt from Building Regulations provided that:-
- They have a floor area less than 30 square metres;
- They are constructed at ground level;
- At least 75% of the roof and 50% of the walls are glazed with a translucent material;
- The existing walls, windows and doors separating the conservatory from the existing house must be retained, and no additional openings created;
- There should be an independent heating system with separate temperature and on/off controls;
- The glazing complies with Approved Document N of the Building Regulations i.e. protection against impact
Guidance should be obtained as to whether the conservatory will require Planning Permission. Due to the usual size and type of structure of conservatories, as above, most will not require Planning Permission. However, checks should be made to ensure your property has not had its Permitted Development Rights removed (meaning you would need Planning Permission for ANY additions to your property) and your Local Planning Department can assist in this respect.
In addition there may be a legal covenant contained within your property deeds that also obligates you to obtain consent to the conservatory from another person, such as the original Developer / Land Owner.
A properly constructed conservatory that also has all the required paperwork can certainly add value to your home and on any future sale, having the correct paperwork will mean that the sale should proceed smoothly with no delay or cost being incurred by having to obtain paperwork retrospectively.
If you would like any additional information on residential property matters please contact a member of our conveyancing team at any of the following offices. Worcester 01905 721600, Droitwich 01905 775533 or Evesham 01386 761176.