DevilDamo

1. You would need to submit a Variation of Condition application and explain what is being varied and why. 2. That specific condition is just a statement. Prior to commencement/demolition/development are usually conditions that require information to be submitted for approval.

Over what?

Technically, your Planning approval is invalid and you should liaise with the LPA in order to find the best way forward.

Correct. You cannot apply for PD alterations without PD being available, which is upon substantial completion of the build.

PD along with PA applications can only be implemented upon substantial completion of the dwelling and is usually Building Regulation sign off.

or her.

A PA application needs to be submitted “before” works start. It’s the LDC application that can be submitted after.

PA applications have to be submitted prior to a LDC application. PA has to be submitted prior to works starting. The LDC can be applied before, during or after the works.

Absolutely. A lot of people don’t realise that the PA process is not confirmation that the proposals meet all the Class A requirements. I just think about the time they come to sell and it’s flagged up then. A PA application should in my opinion always be followed by a LDC application. Some LPA’s are checking all the requirements as part of the PA process, but not all.

The reduced depth “could” come up in the future should you come to sell. Not so much that having a smaller extension would be refused but more so the paperwork aligns with what has been built. A CoL is a Certificate of Lawfulness. What you had submitted to accompany the PA application was fine. I just don’t know how from a location and block plan that the LPA can check it meets all the Class A requirements. A block plan would normally indicate the external walls.

@Big Jimbo The form asks for a measurement in metres. Did you just write "up to 8m" in that box? I still think the PA process is ridiculous as a lot of applications I have seen would not meet Class A. Only some LPA's are checking all the Class A requirements with PA applications.

If the PA application stated a depth of 6m and you have built 5.7m, then you have not built in accordance with the PA decision. PA applications are like an MOT and if you deviate from what has been approved, then you are technically in breach of that document. It does worry me that a LPA can confirm a proposal meets Class A without seeing proposed plans and elevations drawings. Normally, LPA’s will advise that submitting a CoL after a successful PA application is the full belt and braces approach. Unless their decision does refer to an optional CoL application?

Have you built in accordance with the Prior Approval drawings?

Thanks all. Currently, I have an electric boiler/tank along with storage and panel heaters. The heaters are on their individual switches. The storage heaters store and release the heat throughout the day while the panel heaters are manually turned on/off accordingly. This new boiler is somewhat very different. Firstly, it is a lot smaller than what I have now and there is pipework running to all radiators. Converting to a heat pump is something I could be interested in. The survey threw up the potential of asbestos in the ceiling. Would that impact any heat pump installation as I know some suppliers will not touch a property with asbestos?

Thank you both. I currently have an electric boiler along with panel/storage heaters and on Economy 7. So because of that, the new house should not be a lot different in terms of costs. I’m currently with EDF and will definitely look into Octopus.

Tbh, I can’t remember and will check that during another viewing. If not, I’m sure it’s something I could sort.

A house I am looking at buying has had the following mentioned within the Level 3 Survey… ”The property is heated by wall mounted radiators that receive their hot water from the electric boiler to be found in the cupboard in the main bedroom. I am told that this was installed 2 years ago by the current owners. This type of installation is unusual, it is possible that the electricians understanding of such systems may be limited because of this. It may well be the case that hot water supply may be a little limited because of the size of the reservoir. It is suggested that a plumber is consulted for a more definitive commentary.” Does this ring any alarm bells? In my current place, I have electric storage heaters so this is different in that water is now running into the rads?

You could go down the Lawful (4 year route) but as @SBMS mentioned, it would cost you more as opposed to taking out an indemnity policy nearer the time of sale.

The 30sq.m relates to Building Regulations, not Planning.

What have the LPA’s CIL department advised as they can and are usually helpful in this regard?

An annexe on the basis of being self-contained cannot be done via PD.

As you have already found out, once an application is deposited with the LA, it’s stuck with them until completion. Have you tried written to the Head of Building Control?

Any luck?

I personally can’t see how the annexe approval would remain extant. Your best bet may be to reach out to a Planning Consultant.