Selling your home – the impact on unauthorised alterations

Thinking about putting your home on the market after the summer holidays? When it comes to selling your house, one of the most significant issues that can arise is unauthorised alterations to your property. We have seen countless property transactions held up or even derailed due to changes made to a property without the necessary permissions. 

Unauthorised alterations refer to structural changes made to a property without obtaining the required planning permissions or building regulations approval, and understanding the ramifications of them is crucial for any homeowner looking to sell their property smoothly and efficiently. Alterations include a wide range of modifications, such as:

1. Extensions or additions to the property
2. Loft conversions
3. Structural changes, like removing internal walls
4. Installation of new windows or doors

While these changes may enhance your living space and increase your property's value, failing to secure the proper approvals can have serious consequences when it's time to sell.

• Delays in the sale process – once a buyer's solicitor identifies the lack of proper permissions, they will raise enquiries that need to be resolved before the sale can proceed. This often involves obtaining retrospective approval, which can be time-consuming and costly.

• Potential sale collapse – in some cases, the buyer may decide to withdraw from the transaction altogether. The prospect of dealing with unauthorised alterations can be daunting, and buyers may prefer to look for a property without such complications.

Unauthorised alterations are a common issue that can significantly impact the sale of your house. Remember that if you are a homeowner and thinking about making alterations to your property, you should engage with qualified architects, surveyors, and solicitors who can guide you through the process and ensure compliance with regulations, ensure you then obtain the necessary planning permissions and building regulations approval, and of course maintain thorough records of all permissions and approvals related to alterations which will be important when you come to sell.

The necessary permissions will be required for any structural alteration made within 20 years of the date of sale. That applies whether the alteration was made by you or by a previous owner.  If you discover unauthorised alterations on your property, obtaining retrospective approvals can help mitigate the issues. This process involves applying for the necessary permissions after the work has been completed. While it can be complex and not always guaranteed, it provides a legal route to rectify the situation. In some circumstances, the lack of permission can be addressed by a Title Indemnity Policy, but that may not be possible in every case.

If you have any concerns about unauthorised alterations or need assistance with property transactions, our experienced team is here to help.