Porch planning permission is not needed under 3m², 3m high and 2m from a road boundary. When the rules fail, and the 30m² building regs test.
Should you pay builders a deposit? Yes, but keep it small, tie it to materials and pay by credit card. Stage payments, cooling-off rights and red flags.
How to apply for planning permission in Kent: drawings, ownership certificate, the £548 fee, 21-day consultation, 8-week decision and appeal deadline.
Conservation area planning rules cut rear extensions to 3m (4m detached), bar side and roof extensions, and add tree and demolition consents. Kent checks.
Home improvement grants in Kent: four open in 2026, which councils hold Warm Homes money, the £7,500 heat pump grant and the 31 December ECO4 deadline.
What is TrustMark? The government-endorsed home trades scheme, the badges that are a legal must (Gas Safe, FENSA) and how to check any claim in 5 minutes.
How to compare builders quotes like for like: the 9 lines each quote must show, how to fill the gaps, and the payment terms to check in Kent.
Building regulations approval in Kent: £360 plus £660 on full plans, £1,275 to regularise later, and councils now have 10 years to make you undo it.
Permitted development rights let a detached house extend 8m to the rear. The real limits, the £249 prior approval, the 42-day clock and where Kent differs.
Modern extensions are sealed tight to save heat, which can trap moisture and pollutants indoors. Five practical ways to keep the air fresh without compromising the design.
