Alterations to existing buildings

Revision as of 16:04, 20 March 2018

Existing buildings often undergo certain alterations. The Building Regulations apply to most alteration works. The local planning authority will decide whether to provide planning permission to alterations. Often, minor alterations, known as permitted developments, do not require approval as the permission is granted by the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995.

Common examples of alterations include:

• Change of use.
• Building an extension.
• Adding a porch, garage or conservatory.
• Partial demolition.
• Linking two or more floors.
• Removing a partition wall to combine two or more rooms.
• Erecting a partition wall to divide two or more rooms.
• Increasing or decreasing floor area.
• Making or closing an opening.
• Installing cladding or a curtain wall system.
• Installing utility systems and services.
• Modifying means of access and escape.
• Replacing windows.

Any alterations to load-bearing elements should be undertaken after consulting a structural engineer, architect or other building professional. Where possible, the original drawings and plans of the existing building should be examined to ensure a full appreciation of the different structural elements and components.

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Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Building regulations.
• Change of use class.
• Material alteration.
• Material change of use.
• Minor material amendment.
• Permitted development.
• Renovation.
• Spot items.