Are there any objections to you building a granny annexe in your back garden? This post talk about a couple of legal considerations that you must take care of before starting your project.
Granny Annexe Legal Objections
One of the biggest areas to consider before building an annexe is planning. Gaining planning permission can be a major area that may put you off starting your project, but it doesn’t have to be so.
If planning is handled in the correct way, it doesn’t have to be complex. In fact, when you’re an iHUS customer, we take care of planning for you, meaning that you don’t have to worry at all.
In almost all cases, planning permission is needed to build a granny annexe. Yes, people do sometimes work around the law, but it really isn’t worth it. Imagine moving into your new annexe, or an elderly parent moving in and then finding out a couple of years down the line that yes, you did need permission after all.
This could result in a big headache whilst you try to sort out planning and in worst-case scenarios, being asked to remove the structure. Not good.
So, consider planning properly first. When you work with us, our planning expert comes as part of the service and will handle all liaison with your local authority on your behalf.
Our preferred method of obtaining planning permission is a Householder Application. However, we also submit your annexe plans under the Caravan Act at the same time. Should any objections be raised, we have a ‘safety net’. This dual approach ensures that the planning stage is no longer than necessary, and that building works can start as soon as possible.
Read more details about our planning permission service.
Can Your Neighbour Object Legally?
In theory, your neighbour can object to any structure you place in your garden. Whether their objections are legally valid or will be taken into consideration by your planning authority depends on the issue. Sometimes neighbours have valid concerns such as the height of a building on a neighbouring property, on the other hand, some people can just act awkward.
Once you’ve applied for planning permission to start your annexe, your neighbours will receive a notice from your Local Planning Authority. The letter will give neighbours details of how to raise any objections they have to your plans. If they don’t respond, that’s not an issue but for neighbours who do respond, claims will have to be considered by the Planning Authority to assess their validity.
This process can all happen without you ever speaking to your neighbour but to avoid awkward objections we highly recommend speaking to your next-door neighbours before you submit plans.
Most people just want to feel like they know what is happening and kept in the loop so by having a quick chat with your neighbour and showing them your plans, you can immediately address any concerns. Technically, it’s not your neighbour’s concerns nor is it your duty to tell them, but by showing you are considering them and proactively approaching the topic, most neighbours won’t raise any objections.
Conservation Areas
Sometimes, planning permission can be a little more complicated in a conservation area or on properties that are listed buildings.
Starting out with a good design which takes conservation into account will make the process much easier. For example, if window frames or roof tiles must be of a specific shade or type, ensure plans are submitted showing these special measures have been considered.
This is another area iHUS have considerable experience; we started out making completely custom annexes. In addition to our core range of granny annexes, we also offer a bespoke service which is ideal for those of you have certain restrictions on what you can build. From pitched roofs to specific window frame colours, we can tailor any aspect of your build to ensure your new annexe plans pass all scrutiny.
Get in Touch to Discuss Your Project
Still worried about granny annexe legal objections? Get in touch and speak to one of our friendly team members. They will be happy to set you up with a consultation where an expert planner will come to your home and discuss every aspect of your build and what you want to achieve.
You can contact us here or give us a call on 0808 164 1111.
