Are you looking to buy a disused building and convert it into your perfect tiny home?

In some ways, ‘recycling’ redundant buildings in this way can be easier to get planning permission for than a new ‘greenfield’ home proposal.

So in a nutshell, how to navigate the planning system?

Buy and apply

Disused buildings such as former telephone exchanges or water pumping stations (or even former toilet blocks) come up for sale now and again. Sometimes they’re suitable for conversion into a business premises such as an office or workshop, but – especially in more rural locations – they can sometimes be converted into a dwelling.

Usually, planning permission is required for this change of use, and for extensions or other alterations, and any new access from the highway. The building may have to be provided with services (unless it’s off-grid of course).

Most local planning authorities have policies that are broadly supportive of the conversion of disused buildings – although it’s important to check the criteria in your local area. Sometimes the building has to be located so that sustainable travel is possible (e.g. near a bus route).

You are likely to have to demonstrate that the building is structurally sound and that the conversion would improve its immediate setting.

Permitted development rights

In England, and as an alternative to obtaining full planning permission, there are permitted development rights for the conversion of buildings. These support the conversion of certain types of building in principle; you would then need to obtain prior approval for your conversion project and meet certain criteria.

Final thoughts

Converting a disused building can enable you to create a new dwelling – tiny or otherwise – in the countryside. Depending on the consent you obtain, this could be used as a new permanent place of abode, or as a holiday let to create a new source of income.

There are obviously costs associated with the purchase of the land/building and in undertaking conversion works. It is advisable to speak with an architect in advance to see what is possible and what the likely costs might be.

For more pics of the former telephone exchange shown in the photo above, see:

http://www.greatspacearchitects.com/portfolio-items/the-telephone-exchange/

Inset image (white building) © copyright Les Hull, geograph.org.uk

This post is for informational purposes only. See our Disclaimer and Terms for more.