Householders wanting to extend and improve their homes will benefit from the changes to the planning system which comes into force on 1 October 2008, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Changes to permitted development rights for householders will mean that many home extensions will no longer require planning permission. This is good news for householders wanting to improve their properties and for builders in the current economic climate. The new changes will mean that most householders will be able to build a loft conversion and a ground floor rear extension without having to apply for planning permission.

However, the changes to the planning system will also benefit those householders who have previously extended their home. Where a property has benefited from a single or two storey extension the new permitted development allowances will allow a loft conversion to be installed without having to apply for planning permission. Similarly, where a property has benefited from a loft conversion being installed most single storey extensions, and in some cases a two storey extension, can be constructed without the need for planning permission.

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The majority of projects will still have to comply with the building regulations and the relevant applications will need to be submitted. However, the relaxed permitted development allowances will help householders to avoid the long delays, inconsistencies and frustrations commonly associated with the planning process.

Brian Berry, Director of External Affairs at the FMB said. "The new changes to the planning system will make it easier for both householders and builders wanting to extend and improve homes. Avoiding the need to submit a planning application, which can cost £1,000 or more, will save months of frustration and in some cases bitter disappointment. It will also help overstretched local planning authorities by removing routine householder planning applications from their desks.

"At a time when the building industry is suffering from the credit crunch anything that makes it easier for householders to get work done to their home can only be a good thing for builders. Over recent months builders have seen a dramatic fall in the number of consumer enquiries. Hopefully these changes will generate more work and help stave off the downturn in the building sector. At a time when house prices are falling maintaining and improving a property becomes essential if householders are thinking of moving. A well maintained property can be the difference between a sale or not."

(CD/JM)