As more people embrace work remotely, the demand for dedicated home office spaces has surged. As not all homeowners have the luxury of a spare room many are turning to their gardens to create standalone office spaces, or even a home gym. However, constructing a garden home office isn’t just about choosing the right design and materials. Understanding and complying with the legal requirements such as planning permissions, building regulations, and the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is crucial, even at the design stage.
Planning Requirements
Before you break ground on your new garden room, check if you need planning permission. Under certain circumstances, garden room can be considered permitted development, which do not require planning permission. These conditions include limitations on size, height, and location within the property.
For example, all built structures on the property should not cover more than half the garden and the garden room should be single-story, with a maximum height of 2.5 meters if situated within 2 meters of a boundary. However, if your planned office does not meet these conditions, or if your property is listed or located in a conservation area, you will likely need to apply for planning permission. Where planning permission is not be required. it is advisable to obtain a lawful development certificate before starting any works.
Building Regulations
Even if your garden office is a permitted development and does not require planning permission, it must comply with building regulations. These regulations ensure that the structure is safe and energy efficient. Key aspects include structural integrity, insulation standards, fire safety, and electrical wiring safety. It’s advisable to contact your local building control department early in the planning stage to ensure all requirements are met.
For example, Building Regulations would apply for outbuildings over 30m2 or where a controlled service or fitting such as a toilet or shower room is installed. It’s always advisable to check with your local Building Control Body before embarking.
The Party Wall Act
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 covers more than just works directly to or close to a party wall, as confirmed by the ‘etc.’ in the Act’s name. It also covers new buildings at or on the boundary and excavation adjacent to neighbour’s buildings or structures. The Act therefore comes into play if your garden home office is proposed to be on or up to the boundary line of your property. If the foundation of your new building will be within 3 meters of a neighbouring property, or if construction involves excavation near a neighbouring building or structure, such as a garage or their home office, you must notify your neighbours by serving a Party Wall Notice.
This Act is designed to enable works to proceed that may otherwise be illegal or cause a nuisance to neighbours and prevent and resolve disputes between neighbours. Once you serve the notice, your neighbours can either consent or dissent. If they dissent, you will need to appoint a Party Wall Surveyor to prepare a Party Wall Award. This award will outline how the work should proceed, measures to prevent damage, and how any disputes will be resolved.
Conclusion
Building a garden room is an exciting project that can greatly enhance your work-from-home experience, or let you regularly attend the gym without leaving home. By understanding and adhering to the planning requirements, building regulations, and the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, you can ensure that your new space is not only a comfortable and inspiring space but also legally compliant. Always consider consulting with professionals to help you navigate these requirements smoothly.
