Permitted development advice
Permitted development allows certain types of building work to be carried out without submitting a full planning application. However, these rights are not automatic and depend on detailed technical conditions, previous works, site context, and local constraints such as conservation areas or Article 4 Directions.
Misapplication of permitted development can lead to enforcement issues or unexpected complications later in a project.
Our permitted development advice service is designed for homeowners who want professional clarity at an early stage. It provides a clear, written assessment of whether your proposed works fall within permitted development rights, where risks or limitations exist, and whether proceeding under PD is appropriate in your specific circumstances.
This service is advisory and professional, delivered promptly and independently, allowing you to make informed decisions before commissioning design work, surveys, or construction.
When permitted development advice is the right starting point
Permitted development advice is particularly useful if you:
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Are planning works that might fall under permitted development
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Want to avoid unnecessary planning applications
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Need clarity on risk areas such as previous extensions, cumulative limits, or local restrictions
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Want to understand how permitted development may affect a future sale or mortgage process
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Want to avoid costly redesign or enforcement risk later
In many transactions, solicitors or lenders require formal confirmation that works carried out under permitted development were lawful. This usually involves a Certificate of Lawful Development, which is a separate application with evidence requirements and processing time similar to a planning application. Early professional advice helps you understand whether such evidence can be robustly supported.
Permitted development advice services
Tier 1 — Permitted Development Initial Review
A focused, professional review to establish whether permitted development is likely to apply in principle.
This service is intended for homeowners who want an early indication before committing to further fees or design work.
The review typically includes:
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Desktop assessment of the proposed works against permitted development criteria
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Consideration of obvious site constraints and limitations
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Identification of factors that may restrict or remove PD rights
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Clear written advice on whether:
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permitted development is likely to apply, or
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further assessment or planning advice is recommended
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This service provides initial clarity, but does not assess boundary cases or detailed risk.
Fees: £495 + VAT
Timescale: 3–5 working days
How To Proceed
This service can be requested via the Start a project section below.
Tier 2 — Permitted Development Full Assessment
A more detailed professional assessment where greater certainty is required.
This service is appropriate where reliance on permitted development needs to be robustly understood, particularly where previous works, site context, or future sale considerations introduce risk.
The assessment typically includes:
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Detailed review of the proposal against permitted development legislation
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Consideration of cumulative development, previous permissions, and site history
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Review of local constraints, including conservation areas and restrictions
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Clear written professional opinion confirming:
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whether permitted development applies
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where limitations or risks exist
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whether reliance on PD is appropriate in practice
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This service provides a definitive advisory position to support informed decision-making before progressing further.
Fees: £795 + VAT
Timescale: 5–7 working days
How To Proceed
This service can be requested via the Start a project section below.
How this fits with other services
Permitted development advice is often the first step in understanding whether a project can proceed without a formal planning application.
If permitted development does apply, the advice provides clarity and confidence to move forward, whether that is to design development, technical design, or construction planning.
If permitted development does not apply, or where reliance on PD carries unacceptable risk, the next step is typically Planning Advice service, which considers whether a proposal is likely to be supported through the planning system and what approach may be most appropriate.
For more complex proposals, development sites, or where early engagement with the local authority is required, a Pre-Planning Reports may be appropriate before progressing to a formal application.
Each service is standalone and advisory in nature, allowing you to choose the appropriate route once the correct planning position has been established.
How permitted development advice fits into your project journey
Permitted development advice often forms a first step in the process for many homeowners. Some clients find that PD is appropriate and proceed confidently. Others discover that design amendments or a planning application is the safer, lower-risk route. Our role is to help you understand your options and make decisions with clarity.
Start with clarity
Commission a fixed-fee permitted development assessment to get clarity on whether your proposed works qualify under PD before progressing further.
Get professional insight in days