Renovation work that does not need planning
Most internal renovation work does not require planning permission. You are free to: remove internal walls (subject to building regs and structural engineer sign-off for load-bearing walls); reconfigure internal layouts; replace kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, decoration; install new heating, electrics, plumbing; insulate internal walls or floors; install new internal doors. External work generally permitted without planning: replacement windows and doors in similar materials and configuration; like-for-like roof recovering with same material; rear garden patios and standard decking; internal lighting changes. All this requires building regulations approval where work is notifiable (new electrics, gas, structural changes) but not planning.
Renovation work that does need planning permission
External renovation work that may need planning: changing window style (timber to PVC, or smaller to bigger), particularly in conservation areas; cladding the building (render, timber, brick) in materials different from the original; replacing the roof with different materials; changing the front door materially; building a porch over a certain size; significant landscape works to the front. Listed building renovations: any alteration affecting the character — internal or external — needs Listed Building Consent, separate from planning. Conservation areas: external alterations are scrutinised more strictly; many changes that are PD elsewhere need full planning. Article 4 Directions: some streets have specific PD rights removed, requiring planning for changes other properties could do without.
Building regulations vs planning permission
Building regulations and planning permission are separate regimes. Planning permission concerns design, amenity, policy compliance — how the building looks and how it affects neighbours. Building regulations concern technical performance — structure, fire safety, energy efficiency, accessibility. Most internal renovations need building regulations but not planning. Examples of notifiable building work: any new electrical circuit; any structural work (wall removal, new beams, foundation alterations); any new drainage; any new boiler; loft conversions; extensions. These require building control sign-off via a Building Notice or Full Plans application, and a completion certificate at the end.
