Homeowners risk demolition orders for building without permission

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 06:19 · Archive

Homeowners who build without planning permission can be ordered to demolish their projects.

Homeowners who build without planning permission risk being ordered to demolish their projects. In some cases, applying for retrospective planning permission under Section 73A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 can offer a solution, though it is not guaranteed to resolve the issue.

Councils assess retrospective applications on their planning merits, considering factors such as impact on neighbours, design, and compliance with local plans. However, the fact that work is already complete does not guarantee approval. If the development is deemed unacceptable, permission can be refused and homeowners may be required to alter or remove the structure.

Recent Government figures reveal that councils across Yorkshire and the Humber issued 410 planning enforcement notices between July 2025 and June 2026, an 11 per cent increase on the previous year. Simon Rix, director and senior planning permission consultant at Planix.uk, advised homeowners: 'First, establish whether permission was actually required and whether the development complies with any relevant permitted development rights or existing consent.' Investigations into unauthorised work often begin with a neighbour's complaint, a site visit, or information received by the council.

How it is being reported

• Homeowners warned over building without planning permissionHOMEOWNERS who build without planning permission risk being ordered to demolish their projects.Keighley News · 20 Oct, 05:00
• Homeowners warned over building without planning permissionHOMEOWNERS who build without planning permission risk being ordered to demolish their projects.Telegraph & Argus · 20 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Simon Rix · Planix.uk · Yorkshire and the Humber

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