How Do You Get Planning Permission for an Extension in Essex? 

You might have a great idea for an extension at your Essex property, but you're unsure of what comes next. Before you get the ball rolling with the right team of Essex architects, you may need to secure planning permission.

So how do you go about this? How do you lodge your application, and how do you even begin?

To help you navigate this process, we've put together this handy guide to the home extension planning permission process in Essex. Read on to learn more.

Check That You Actually Need Planning Permission

You won't always need to get planning permission for your Essex project. Many commercial or industrial sites, for example, will have pre-agreed development rights, allowing you to make alterations without prior authorisation. For residential properties, though, you will typically need to have planning permission before building work can proceed.

Planning permission will be required if you want to build another structure on your property, or if you want to make a large extension to your home. The actual definition of a "large" extension is up to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) at Essex County Council. 

Fortunately, your team of expert Essex architects can help you with this. When you speak to us here at Humphreys & Sons, we can advise you as to whether your project will need planning permission in Essex.

Submit Your Essex Planning Permission Application

Essex County Council will need quite a lot of information from you before they can give you the go-ahead on your project.

You'll need to make sure you have chosen the right application type. Usually this will be "Prior Approval: Larger Home Extension," but not always. And ensure you've filled in all of the site location information and checked this is correct and up-to-date.

An error at this stage can delay or derail your application.

Again, Humphreys & Sons can help you with all of this. As part of our design and consultation services, we can ensure you have lodged all the necessary paperwork, and that the way is clear for success on your project.

We recognise how difficult it can be to get an Essex planning permission application right. With our experience, we can make sure your own application goes without a hitch.

Communicate with Essex County Council

You won't be able to start work with your Essex architects until that planning permission is granted. Before this can happen, Essex County Council and the LPA may want to reach out to you to find out more about the project. 

Even though you've already lodged your application, this can be a daunting process. There may still be details the council needs to confirm, and they may wish to complete a site inspection. If you're handling the process alone, this can be a significant obstacle.

At Humphreys & Sons, we can handle all the communication for you. We understand what you need to get your planning permission over the line in Essex, and you can rely on us to ensure there are no problems along the way.

What Comes Next — Building Your Extension

Once your Essex home extension has been given planning permission, you can get started on your project. Your team of Essex architects will help you design and execute your extension, so you can see the finished results sooner rather than later. 

Here at Humphreys & Sons, we have an exemplary track record helping our clients achieve the results they need on their Essex home extension project. Reach out to the team today and let's get started.

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