Alterations And Improvements
Planning alterations to your home? Find out which changes require permission and how to submit a request.
Making Alterations To Your Leasehold Home
Making a home your own is one of the benefits of homeownership. Whether you;’re planning to redecorate, upgrade your kitchen or make larger improvements, it’s important to understand which changes you can make yourself and which may require permissions before any work begins.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s always best to ask first.
What Leaseholders Need To Know
What Changes Need Permission?
Some alterations may affect the structure of the building, communal areas, insurance arrangements or other leaseholders. You should contact us before carrying out changes such as:
- Replacing windows or external doors.
- Removing or building walls.
- Structural alterations.
- Electrical or plumbing works that affect the building.
- Extensions, balconies or external structures.
- Changes to communal areas.
- Any significant alterations to the layout of your home.
Remember, permissions must be granted before work begins.
Why Do I Need Permission?
Permission isn’t there to stop you improving your home. It’s there to make sure any work:
- Is safe and compliant.
- Doesn’t affect other residents.
- Doesn’t impact the structure of the building.
- Doesn’t create future maintenance issues.
- Complies with the terms of your lease.
We’ll always explain what information we need and any conditions that may apply.
What Improvements Can I Normally Make?
In many cases, day-to-day decorating and cosmetic improvements won’t require permission.
Examples may include:
- Painting and decorating.
- Replacing flooring.
- Installing shelving.
- Updating furniture and fittings.
If you’re thinking about making changes and aren’t sure whether permission is required, please get in touch before starting work.
Before You Submit A Request
The more information you can provide, the easier it will be for us to review your request.
You may be asked for:
- Details of the proposed work.
- Plans or drawings.
- Product specifications.
- Contractor information.
- Supporting documents where required.
Some applications may require additional information depending on the complexity of the work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our frequently asked questions provide you with answers to some of the most common questions on alterations and improvements as a shared owner.
Do I need permission to decorate my home?
Usually not. Most decorative improvements, such as painting walls or replacing flooring, can normally be carried out without permission.
Can I install a new kitchen or bathroom?
In many cases, yes. However, depending on the scope of the work, permission may be required before work begins.
Can I remove an internal wall?
Possibly. Structural alterations almost always require permission and may need supporting information before approval can be given.
What happens if I make alterations without permission?
You may be asked to provide further information, obtain retrospective approval or, in some circumstances, return the property to its original condition.
How long does it take to review my request?
Timescales vary depending on the type of work being proposed, but we’ll keep you informed throughout the process.
Will permission always be granted?
Not always. Each request is considered individually and some works may not be suitable because of safety, legal, building or lease-related requirements.
Need Permission? We Can Help.
Thinking about making changes to your home?
Complete our alterations and improvements form and a member of the team will review your request and explain the next steps.