Seeking Advice on Lawful Development Certificate
Hi everyone,
I’m looking to apply for a lawful development certificate to extend my conservatory, which would provide direct access from my house to my annex (which is already included on the council’s property map). I’ve consulted a few agencies online, and they mentioned that I wouldn’t need planning permission—just the lawful development certificate.
Since I’ve already spent a lot on buying the house, I want to avoid any unnecessary costs. Has anyone here completed a lawful development application on their own without hiring a third party? Is that feasible, or would I need to bring in an architect to draft the plans? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Hi there!
Yes, it’s definitely possible to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) on your own without hiring a third party, but there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Understand the Requirements: First, familiarize yourself with the criteria for a lawful development application. The planning portal on your local council’s website is a good starting point. It outlines what is needed for a successful application and any specific local policies.
Gather Documentation: You’ll need to put together a comprehensive application, including a detailed description of your proposed development and any existing plans. You might also need to provide evidence showing that the new extension complies with permitted development rights.
Drawings and Plans: While not strictly necessary to have an architect, you will need to submit plans that accurately depict your property and the proposed development. You can use simple drawing software or even hand-drawn sketches if they are clear and to scale. Just make sure they are legible and follow the local requirements.
Consult Local Guidelines: Make sure to check any local guidelines or specific restrictions that might apply to your property, as these can vary significantly depending on location.
Application Process: When you submit the application, prepare for it to take a few weeks for the council to process it. Be ready to answer any questions they may have.
Seek Advice If Needed: If you run into difficulties, you might consider seeking advice from your local planning department. They can provide insights and help clarify any uncertainties.
Doing it yourself can save costs, but ensure you’re thorough in your preparation. Good luck with your application! If you have any more questions along the way, feel free to ask!