Before dwelling into planning permissions in Ireland, what motivates you to build a house extension? The motivations to make enlargements and improvements in a house can be for a wide range of reasons. It can be a property that was acquired for a reasonable price but needs renovation and expansion. Or maybe the family has grown and demands more house space.
Maybe one or two extra rooms, or a bigger kitchen or living room.
Perhaps the motivation is to revalue the house or modernize it, replacing simple materials with more complex ones.
If you want to increase your homes space and create a better living environment while adding value to your property a house extension is the way to go.
However, you have to remember that house extensions and several other changes to a property may require specific authorizations like a certificate of compliance and planning permissions.
I’m thinking of extending, do I need planning permission?
Maybe not, let us explain how things work regarding planning permissions in Ireland.
For small extensions at the rear of your house that are less than 40 square meters in floor area and are not higher than the original house, you don´t need planning permission. Bear in mind that the 40 square meter threshold includes the combined extension space for all extensions to the original house’s footprint.
For extensions on the front or side of your house or for large house extensions at the rear of the house where the extension is more than 40 square meters, you will need planning permission.
If I do need planning, how long will it take?
From the time you apply, typically about 8-10 weeks.
What are certificates of compliance?
If your house extension involves any structural changes, you must get a certificate of compliance.
This certificate must be obtained before the actual building work starts as it involves several site inspections and can be provided by a surveyor, architect or another suitably qualified person with the correct indemnity insurance.
And remember that to get a mortgage for the extension work or to sell your property a certificate of compliance is mandatory.
And finally some last considerations about building a house extension.
Take your time, think carefully about your space needs and hire the services of a professional company. We at ADBS are here to help and not only can we manage the whole planning application process on your behalf but can also produce a carefully designed extension.