Potential subsidence - do I need Certificate of Lawfullness first?

[Cypermethrin]

Purchased a house 2 months ago - had full structural survey which mentioned the utility room on the back of the kitchen was single walled and close to adjacent brook. Noted some movement but in line with usual settling etc.

The utility room was built back in mid 1990's without formal planning permission - but it was mentioned in an Appeal for a further extension which was refused in 2001. So the local planning authority know it exisited and of it back then and I can prove this too.

I am keen to get the utility room formally assessed by structural engineer to determine if it is moving and if so what remediation is required.

Do I need a Certificate of Lawfullness in case the local authority does not grant permission to rebuild it if it is shown to be subsiding as it was orginally built without planning permission ? Or am I thinking about this too hard as its far older that 4 years old and as such lawful...

Thanks in advance

 

[^woody^]

It was most likely permitted development anyway (if built to the criteria of the day), so no permission would have been required

The time for enforcement has passed.

If you repair, planning permission is not required for anything. If you completely (or substantially) remove and rebuild to the same dimensions and style, then if planning permission would be required you will need to apply - despite any of the two points above.