Under the new rules announced last week, properties will be allowed to be extended by up to eight meters from the rear of a property without the need for full planning permission. But the SLC says that homeowners need to be reminded that other restrictions remain in place.
The society warns that extensions still require building regulations approval and may also require consent from the local water provider if the property or planned extension will cover a public drain or sewer.
The SLC says that the lack of clear information from the government could lead to a string of illegal extensions taking place across the country, with the potential for legal action against the owner of the property.
John Clay, chairman of the SLC, said that homeowners must check that any extension meets all necessary regulations and is properly approved before embarking on a project.
“It is very important for home owners to understand that these recent changes do not simply allow you to press ahead with a planned extension if it falls within the new permitted dimensions.
“You are still required to secure building regulations approval. Failure to do so could result in the council later requesting that you take down your extension – a costly and easily avoidable scenario, if you ensure you secure the necessary permissions up front.
“With the housing market remaining subdued and an increasing number of people looking to extend their existing home rather than incur the expense of moving, this latest relaxation of the planning regulations could significantly ease the process for thousands of home owners.
“However, we strongly urge home owners to ensure they have secured building regulations approval and any other necessary permissions, before commencing any works.”
