Commonly Asked Questions
Under permitted development rights, homeowners can extend their property beyond typical limits with Prior Approval — specifically for larger single-storey rear extensions. Rubix Planning advises whether your proposal qualifies and prepares the required documentation to help secure approval without the need for a full application.
What is a Prior Approval for larger home extensions?
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For detached houses, extensions up to 8 metres deep may qualify; for others, up to 6 metres — but strict conditions apply around height, boundary proximity, and design. Rubix ensures your extension fits these criteria and advises on how to adapt the design if needed.
What are the size limits and rules for Prior Approval extensions?
You’ll need scaled plans, written confirmation of the proposal, and notices served on adjoining neighbours. Rubix Planning prepares all drawings and manages the submission process, ensuring it meets the Local Planning Authority’s validation checklist.
What documents are needed for a Prior Approval submission?
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Once submitted, the council notifies immediate neighbours, who can object within 21 days. If objections are received, the council must assess the impact on amenity. Rubix anticipates possible concerns and ensures your submission includes supporting justification where needed.
How does the neighbour consultation process work?
Many proposals are refused due to unclear plans, lack of supporting information, or exceeding the thresholds set out in the GPDO. Rubix avoids these pitfalls by preparing precise, policy-compliant submissions — and advising honestly if full planning is a safer route.
What are common pitfalls with larger home extensions?
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We specialise in navigating the grey area between permitted development and full applications. Rubix delivers expert advice, quality drawings, and reliable project handling — giving homeowners confidence that their extension complies fully with current regulations.
Why choose Rubix Planning for your Prior Approval extension?
"Our experience was a reliable service from Rubix and they know their stuff! The application presented very well to Council planners and it got my planning approved. Will be using again."
Sandra
"We've used Rubix Planning for a number of projects, a large extension and most recently a garden building. We've had excellent service and have been guided through the process clearly and efficiently. We highly recommend Rubix Planning a 5 star service"
Antonia
"Its always a pleasure to work with professional company. Highly recommend."
Michael
Why Choose Rubix Planning
Experience
Our Chartered Town Planners and Architectural Team expertly manage every stage of the planning process. With a proven track record across London and the South East, we ensure your project meets all statutory criteria, guiding you through complex planning submissions with precision and professionalism.
Integration
Rubix Planning offers a comprehensive range of planning and architectural services, preparing all necessary drawings and supporting statements to accompany your application. Our streamlined approach saves you time and effort, delivering tailored solutions that meet your unique project requirements.
Trust
Trust is central to everything we do. With clear, step-by-step guidance from initial engagement, we keep you informed and involved throughout the process. Our transparent approach and consistent results give you confidence, even with the most challenging planning applications.
Partnership
We partner with trusted professionals, including engineers, ecologists, and arboricultural consultants, to meet all technical and statutory requirements. These collaborations ensure your project benefits from expert input, with a unified strategy tailored to its specific needs for guaranteed success.
Prior Approvals for Larger Extensions
Why Choose Rubix Planning?
At Rubix Planning, we combine deep policy expertise with practical design understanding to help you achieve planning success — whether you're extending a home, unlocking a development site, or responding to enforcement action. We don’t just submit forms — we provide strategy, clarity, and confidence at every step.
From honest feasibility advice to persuasive appeal submissions, our work is grounded in planning law, shaped by design experience, and focused entirely on your goals. We operate across London and the South East, with a proven track record of results across householder, commercial, and heritage projects.
🔹 Planning consultants who speak plainly and act strategically
🔹 Comprehensive planning services with architectural support
🔹 Experience across local authorities, appeal bodies, and heritage contexts
🔹 Clear communication, fixed fees, and honest guidance from start to finish
Get in touch today to discuss your project — and let’s make planning work for you.