Convert 2 Flats into 1 House

[ITDIY]

Hi all,

We currently live in a ground floor semi-detached flat with a flat also above us. Each flat has its own external doors to enter the properties along with a separate front and back garden.

We are looking at purchasing the upstairs flat and merging the two flats into one but we are fairly new to this and have a few questions.

- Is planning permission required for this?

- Is there any other permission we could potentially have to apply for? (Building is not listed so this wouldn’t need to be considered)

- Has anybody here done such a project and if so could you share any lessons learnt?

Thanks in advance.

 

[John D v2.0]

Is planning permission required for this?

I think its permitted devl, but check for an article 4 direction removing PD rights.
Splitting dwellings in two isn't PD though.

 

[matlob]

If it's leasehold you would need to check with the freeholder if you can do this I guess

 

[Leofric]

Building regulations approval.

 

[^woody^]

I think its permitted devl, but check for an article 4 direction removing PD rights.
Splitting dwellings in two isn't PD though.

Permitted development does not apply to flats. This needs permission.

 

[John D v2.0]

Permitted development does not apply to flats. This needs permission.

Didn't know that! Interesting article on the history of that here
https://simonicity.com/tag/amalgamation-deconversion-kensington-westminster/

 

[Nakajo]

Historically, the re-amalgamation of houses subdivided into flats wasn't considered a material change of use, so 'development' (permitted or otherwise) didn't come into it. Recent case law has indicated that it can now be considered 'material', subject to the local availability of (and demand for) certain housing types. So the safest thing is to check with your local authority.