Turning Multiple Flats Back into One House

When you decide to transform several flats into a single dwelling, this process is generally known by two terms: 'deconversion' or 'amalgamation'. While both achieve a similar outcome, there's an important distinction:

• Deconversion: This is when you take a property that was once a single house, then split into flats, and convert it back to its original, undivided form. Local planning authorities often look upon deconversion more favourably.

• Amalgamation: This involves combining flats that were purpose-built as separate units into one large house. Generally, local councils tend to prefer deconversion projects over amalgamation.

Planning Permission

You might need planning permission if you're merging flats to create a single house. Whether you do or not largely hinges on your local planning authority's (LPA) interpretation of the change. This can often be influenced by their specific policies regarding local housing supply. Some LPAs might classify it as a type of development, while others may not.

You can find more detailed information about your council's position by checking the local policies, usually available on their website. If you're still uncertain, it's always best to get advice directly from your LPA.

Should you establish that your project doesn't require planning permission, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate for Proposed Use. This official document proves that the changes you're planning are indeed lawful.

Building Regulations

Even if your project doesn't require planning permission, you must still comply with Building Regulations. This applies whenever you carry out any physical construction or alterations as part of the conversion work.