FAQs
Q. Can the council really make me demolish my outbuilding?
A, Yes, it can. If you fail to comply with the Planning Enforcement Notice the council is very likely to carryout the demolition as "works in default" and the cost of this will be passed on to yourself including an administration charge for arranging the demolition. Failure to pay will result in a charge being put on the property.
Q. I have been paying council tax for many years isn’t this acceptable?
A. Any dwelling that has a kitchen and bathroom is liable for council tax. The council are using powers under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as they believe you have fallen foul of planning regulations.
Q. Can I apply for planning permission retrospectively?
A. You can apply for planning permission, however from our experience it will be waste of your time and money as it is very likely to be refused.
Q. Does the council have other powers except the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 to take action?
A. Yes, they most certainly do. They have powers under the Housing Act 2004 to either prohibit the outbuilding or to demolish it. They may also take action under the relevant Building Regulations and Acts.
Q. Can I use a solicitor, architect or planning agent?
A. You can indeed use the services of such professionals. However, from our experience it is very difficult in finding a firm that has experience in appeals against outbuildings. It is important to use someone that has experience in outbuildings. Please click here for further information.
Q. By appointing “Planwise Property” as my representative am I guaranteed a successful appeal?
A. No firm can guarantee a successful appeal. From our experience only 15% of appeals are successful and therefore it is important that you appoint a representative that has experience in this field and knows the terminology, evidence, and arguments to present your case as well as appealing on the correct grounds. Please click on here for further information.
Q. Why doesn't your licence application service include a HHSRS survey?
A. We know being a landlord incurs significant costs. In order to reduce costs for you, and to offer a bespoke service, we therefore do not include the HHSRS survey with our licence application services. Whilst we strongly recommend that you do have a HHSRS survey carried out, this is at your own discretion. Our HHSRS surveys are thorough and do cover the all important Damp and Mould which is common within UK properties.
Still have a Question? Then please contact us, we're more than happy to help.