Before you build

Can I cut down or prune a tree with a tree preservation order?

In England, you usually need council consent before touching a tree with a Tree Preservation Order — check before you cut.

Can I knock down an internal wall without approval?

Usually no planning permission is needed, but Building Regulations often apply, especially for load-bearing walls — always check first.

Do I need a party wall agreement?

Whether you need a party wall agreement depends on your work and England/Wales law; Scotland and NI have no such Act.

Do I need approval to remove a chimney breast?

You rarely need planning permission, but almost always need Building Regulations approval - check if the chimney is shared first.

Do I need Building Regulations approval for loft insulation?

Loft insulation itself rarely needs Building Regulations approval, but related electrical or structural work in the loft might.

Do I need Building Regulations approval to replace windows or doors?

Building Regulations usually apply to replacement windows and doors, though most installers self-certify compliance instead of needing council approval.

Do I need permission for a new driveway or dropped kerb?

Whether you need permission for a driveway or dropped kerb depends on its size, surface type, location, and whether it crosses a public pavement.

Do I need permission to convert my garage into a room?

It depends: planning permission rules vary, but Building Regulations approval almost always applies when converting a garage into a room.

Do I need permission to fit a wood burner or log burner?

You usually don't need planning permission, but Building Regulations and smoke control area rules almost always apply to wood burner installations.

Do I need permission to fit an EV charger at home?

Usually no planning permission is needed, but building regulations for electrical safety still apply—check exceptions first.

Do I need planning permission for a garden room or outbuilding?

Usually no planning permission needed if size and height limits are met, but building regulations and exceptions can still apply.

Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?

Most loft conversions in England don't need planning permission, but limits, exceptions and Building Regulations rules can still apply.

Do I need planning permission for a porch?

Most porches don't need planning permission in England if they're small and away from the road, but building regulations rules still apply separately.

Do I need planning permission for a single-storey rear extension?

Often yes under permitted development, but exceptions and size limits mean you should check before building.

Do I need planning permission for solar panels?

Most house roof solar panels don't need planning permission in England, but flats, listed buildings, conservation areas and building regs can change that.

What can I do about a neighbour's high hedge?

In England, councils can only act on evergreen hedges over 2m if informal talks fail; deciduous hedges and single trees are different.

What gas work can I legally do myself?

No – by law, almost all gas work must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer, not you.

What is a Building Regulations completion certificate?

A completion certificate proves Building Regulations work was checked and approved; it's separate from planning permission.

What needs listed building consent?

Listed building consent is needed for most changes, inside or out, to a listed building — always check with the council first.

Which electrical jobs can I do myself? Part P explained

In England, some electrical jobs are DIY-legal; others need Building Regulations sign-off under Part P.