**The Problem:** The biggest mistake is measuring from your house as it currently is, rather than from the "original dwelling".

**Why It Matters:** Permitted development calculations are based on the house as it was first built (or as it stood on 1st July 1948, whichever is later). Any previous extensions don't count as part of the "original dwelling".

**Example:** If your house originally had a 3m deep rear extension added in 2000, and you're planning another 6m extension, you can't just measure 6m from the current rear wall. You need to measure from where the original rear wall was, meaning your total extension depth would be 9m, which likely exceeds permitted development limits.

**The Solution:** • Find your property's original plans • Check for any previous planning applications or Building Regulations approvals • Look for changes in brickwork or construction that indicate where extensions were added • Use PRAITE's original dwelling calculator to check your measurements

**The Problem:** Homeowners assume they can use permitted development rights without checking if they've been removed by an Article 4 direction.

**Why It Matters:** Local authorities can remove permitted development rights in certain areas through Article 4 directions. This is common in conservation areas, but can apply to any location where the council wants to maintain control over development.

**Example:** John planned a 4m rear extension and started hiring contractors, assuming permitted development applied. He later discovered his street had an Article 4 direction removing rights for rear extensions. He had to halt work, apply for planning permission, and wait months for approval.

**The Solution:** • Check with your local planning authority before starting any work • Search your council's website for Article 4 directions • Use PRAITE's pre-screening questions to identify potential restrictions

**The Problem:** Homeowners forget that extensions and outbuildings combined cannot cover more than 50% of the land around the original house.

**Why It Matters:** This rule is cumulative – it includes ALL extensions, outbuildings, sheds, and other structures. Previous work by previous owners counts too.

**Example:** The Smiths wanted to add a 20m² extension and a 15m² garden office. Their garden was 100m², and there was already a 25m² conservatory. Total coverage: 60m² = 60% of curtilage. This exceeds the 50% limit.

**The Solution:** • Calculate the total footprint of all existing structures • Include sheds, garages, extensions, and other buildings • Use accurate measurements of your total garden area • Consider what might need to be removed to stay within limits

**The Problem:** Homeowners plan extensions without realizing that different height limits apply near boundaries.

**Why It Matters:** Within 2 metres of a boundary, single-storey extensions are limited to 3m eaves height. This is more restrictive than the standard 4m height limit.

**Example:** Maria planned a single-storey extension with a flat roof at 3.5m height, running along her boundary. This exceeded the 3m limit for development within 2m of boundaries.

**The Solution:** • Always check distance to boundaries when planning heights • Consider setting the extension back from boundaries if you need more height • Use stepped designs that reduce height closer to boundaries

**The Problem:** Many people think "permitted development" means they don't need any approvals at all.

**Why It Matters:** Building Regulations approval is almost always required, regardless of planning status. Skipping this can lead to: • Unsafe construction • Problems selling your property • Enforcement action • Having to demolish or modify work

**The Solution:** • Always check Building Regulations requirements • Consider a Lawful Development Certificate for peace of mind • Use qualified contractors who understand regulations

1. **Use PRAITE's assessment tool** – it checks all these factors 2. **Verify with your local planning authority** – they can confirm your status 3. **Hire experienced professionals** – they know the common pitfalls 4. **Keep detailed records** – document everything for future reference 5. **Apply for Building Regulations** – always required regardless of permitted development 6. **Don't rush** – taking time to get it right saves money in the long run