Your Guide to Building a Two-Storey Extension: Key rules You Need to Know.

Planning to add a two-storey extension to your home? In many cases, this could fall under what's known as "permitted development." This means you won't need to apply for planning permission, as long as you follow specific rules and guidelines. Here's an easy-to-understand breakdown of the main limits and conditions for building a two-storey extension:

1. Restrictions on Designated Land.

If your home is on designated land (such as a conservation area or national park), building an extension with more than one storey does not fall under permitted development.

2. Stay Within the 50% Land Rule.

Your extension, along with any previous extensions and outbuildings (like sheds), must not cover more than 50% of the land around the original house. The "original house" refers to how it was when first built, or as it stood on 1 July 1948 if it’s an older property. Keep in mind that even if you haven't added to the house, a previous owner might have, so you'll need to account for that.

3. Height Restrictions.

The eaves and ridge of the new extension can't be higher than your existing house.- If you're building within 2 metres of a boundary, the eaves can't be taller than 3 metres.

4. Rear Extensions.

For two-storey rear extensions:- They must not extend more than 3 metres beyond the rear wall of the original house. They must also be at least 7 metres from any boundary opposite the rear wall.

5. Matching Roof Pitch.

For any extensions higher than one storey, the roof pitch should match the slope of your existing house as closely as possible.

6. Exterior Materials.

The materials you use for the outside of the extension must look similar to the existing house, to maintain a cohesive appearance.

7. Upper-Floor Windows.

If you're adding windows to the upper floor on the side of your extension, they must be obscure-glazed (frosted glass) and can't be fully openable unless the parts that open are at least 1.7 meters above the floor level of the room.

8.No Balconies or Verandas.

Unfortunately, adding balconies or verandas isn't considered permitted development for Two-Storey extensions.

By following these rules, you can avoid the need for planning permission and ensure your extension project runs smoothly, but always double-check local guidelines.

If you require additional information or would like to book a free quotation please contact us @ www.kenthouseextensioncompany.co.uk