Do You Need Planning Permission to Remove Pebbledash?
Our team at Intercity are specialists in building façade restoration. Pebbledash was all the rage in the last century but is considered rather unsightly today. Often lying beneath layers of pebbledash is lovely period brickwork in need of cleaning up and showing off. We have all of the necessary know-how and equipment to remove the undesirable pebbledash and return the property in question to its former glory. From period London townhouses to country cottages, we have worked successfully with listed-building restoration and domestic properties for over 25 years.
Do you need planning permission to remove pebbledash?
In the UK, there are numerous requirements to take into account while making changes to your property. Whether planning permission is necessary to remove pebbledash from a building’s exterior is one subject that comes up frequently. The answer is not always obvious because it is based on a number of variables. This blog post will explain what pebbledash is, why it might need to be taken out, and why it might be necessary to get planning approval.
What is Pebbledash?
In the UK, pebbledash was a common exterior wall finish that was used from the late 19th century until the mid-twentieth century. It is composed of tiny pebbles or stones that are combined with cement before being put to a wall. The outcome is a textured, speckled surface that is meant to be long-lasting and weatherproof.
Why Remove Pebbledash?
Although pebbledash was previously a preferred material due of its durability, it has recently lost favour. Many homeowners believe it to be outmoded and unattractive, and some are worried about how it may affect the insulation and ventilation of the structure. Pebbledash can also become soiled or damaged with time, which is another reason why some home owners think about removing it and replacing it with a more contemporary finish.
When is Planning Permission Required?
In the UK, planning permission is a legal requirement for certain types of building work. However, not all changes to a property require planning permission. When it comes to removing pebbledash, the circumstances under which planning permission is required can vary.
Conservation Areas
If your property is situated within a designated conservation area, for example, this could necessitate the need for planning permission. Special planning regulations protect conservation areas, and any exterior building modifications there may need the local planning authority’s approval. As the local authority will be eager to protect any distinctive features that contribute to its special character, this is done in order to preserve the character and appearance of the area.
Listed Buildings
You will probably need planning permission to remove the pebbledash if your home is a listed building. Listed buildings are legally protected, and the local planning authority must approve any exterior changes. This is done to protect the building’s character and value and to ensure that any alterations do not detract from its historical or architectural significance. This means that any alterations to a listed building must take into account its historical setting and not take away from its aesthetic appeal.
Building Regulations
When removing pebbledash, you might still need to adhere to building regulations even if no planning permission is needed. This is due to the possibility that the removal of pebbledash could compromise the building’s structural stability or energy efficiency. To ensure that the building remains secure, safe, and weatherproof, you must make sure that the work is done in a safe and legal manner and that any replacements are carefully chosen.
Material Changes
You could need planning permission if you want to replace the pebbledash with another sort of material (like render). This is so that local planning laws may apply and the material change may alter how the structure looks. In this situation, it could be essential to submit a planning application to the local planning authority for permission, along with specific designs and elevations.
Once you’ve determined whether or not you need to get planning permission you’ll need to bring in a team of specialists to remove the pebbledash for you. We offer a pebbledash removal service that we’d be happy to give you a quote for. Just fill in the contact form or give us a call on 02476 666 304
