If you’re thinking about building an extension on your home, one of the first things you’ll need to determine is how close to your boundary you can build. The answer to this question isn’t always straightforward, as a number of factors can come into play. Such factors include the type of property, the surrounding area and different laws set within your location.  In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the things you’ll need to consider when determining how close to your boundary you can build an extension.

How Do You Determine a Property Boundary?

Let’s start off, by first defining exactly what a boundary is. A boundary is simply a division between two properties. There are two types of boundaries, legal and physical.

A legal boundary is a set line on a property plan or a description of the area which divides one property from another. A physical property boundary is a structure which separates one property from another. This can be easily identified as a wall, hedge, fence or ditch.

Can I Build An Extension Up To My Boundary?

When planning your extension, if the construction is beyond one story and there is no other house on the land behind your property, you will not be able to go beyond the boundary at the rear by more than 3 metres.

You will also not be able to breach the boundary in plan elevation. This means there is a 45-degree rule most commonly used by most planning officers. This is determined by using the closest window to your house from your neighbours’ property. If this measurement breaches the legal boundary line, the planning permission will be denied.

Single-story extensions that are constructed to the side of your property are required to be no more than four metres in height and no wider than half the original size of your property.

If you are considering building a double extension, you cannot go closer than seven metres to the boundary line.

This should give you a clear understanding of how close you can build to your extension to your boundary. If you need more information on extending your property contact the professional architects at Happinest. Happinest can manage the entirety of your extensions planning process and simplify the legal requirements so that your extension can go as planned the first time.

Boundary Conditions To Consider When Planning An Extension?

One of the first things you’ll need to consider when trying to determine how close to your boundary you can build is the purpose of the extension.  For example, if you’re looking to add another story to your home, you’ll need to make sure that the extension doesn’t intrude on your neighbour’s property. However, if you’re looking to add a smaller addition, you may have more room for construction.

 It is always recommended to speak with your neighbours, whenever boundaries are involved. Give them a look into your building plans and discuss any concerns before construction begins. This will help you avoid any unwanted delays or misunderstandings and speed up your building process.

Before construction is sure to consider any easements on your property. An easement is a right that a third party has to use your property for a specific purpose. An example may be an easement that allows your neighbour’s vehicles to pass your property. This is why it’s essential to speak with your local planning department before moving forward with any construction.

Building Your Extension

Building an extension on your property is a great way to increase your home’s value and create some extra space. However, it’s important to make sure that you build in accordance with all local laws and regulations.

Get in touch with an architect to ensure that you don’t run into any problems down the road. Using Happinest’s Architect Near Me, you can request an architect at the click of a button.

Instead of worrying about the plans yourself, you can leave it up to Happinest and their in-house team of designers will work to bring your ideas to life.