One common question for those wishing to add a single-storey extension to their home is, will I need planning permissions? Often many things that people would like to do to their home are actually covered in Permitted Development (PD) rights, but will fall under certain restrictions or regulations, so as not to require planning permissions.

When it comes to adding a single-storey extension, you can actually build under PD rights, as long as the extension is within 4m out to the back or side of your home if it is detached. For other home types, the limit is 3m.

The ridge height of an extension is also restricted to 4m and cannot cover more than 50% of the present garden. Materials used for the extension should match the existing house and you would also have to consider the proximity to any plot boundaries. Currently in England, larger extensions of up to 8m (detached) and 6m (other) are allowable, subject to notification of the development.

So, if you are considering a single-storey extension, chances are you will not require planning permissions.