UK Property Jargon

Embarking on a property project in the UK can be an exciting journey – but it often comes with a new vocabulary of planning terms and regulations. At HollandGreen, we believe clarity is key – so we’ve broken down some of the most important terms you’re likely to encounter when designing or renovating a home in the UK.

Planning Permission

This is formal authorisation from the local authority to construct, extend or alter a property. The requirements depend on location, scale, and design, and can vary significantly between local councils. In London, even neighbouring boroughs can apply different conditions, which means the process isn’t always uniform. Without planning permission, works may be deemed unlawful, so it’s an essential first step.

Listed Building Consent (LBC)

If your home is a listed property (officially recognised for its architectural or historical importance), you’ll need special consent from the local planning authority for any changes. For the most significant buildings, this process may also involve Historic England, the public body that champions and protects England’s historic environment. Their role is to advise on how sensitive updates can be made while safeguarding the architectural and cultural heritage of the property.

National Landscapes (formerly AONB)

These are landscapes of exceptional scenic value, such as the Chiltern Hills or the Cotswolds. Development is possible within a National Landscape, but stricter planning controls protect the natural character of the area. Restrictions can include limitations on scale, materiality and finishes, and reduced tolerance for light pollution. A sensitive design approach, led by a team familiar with local policies, is key to gaining approval.

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)

This legal requirement applies to most new developments, meaning that projects must leave the environment in a better state than before. It requires projects to deliver a measurable improvement to biodiversity compared to the pre-development baseline, typically a minimum 10% net gain. This could include habitat creation, regenerative planting schemes, or restoring green space, which should be supported by ecological surveys and long-term management plans.

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

Some trees are legally protected for their amenity or ecological value. If a tree on your property has a TPO, consent is required before any works can take place – from pruning to removal. This could affect your overall design and construction methods, so it is an important element to consider from the outset of the process.

Bat & Newt Protection

Certain species, including bats and great crested newts, are protected by law in the UK. Ecological surveys may be required, and measures put in place to ensure their habitats and migration corridors remain safeguarded during construction.

Conservation Area Consent

A Conservation Area is a district recognised for its special architectural or historic character. Local planning authorities designate these areas to preserve their unique qualities – from traditional building materials to historic street patterns. If your property is within a Conservation Area, you may need consent for certain works – best achieved with specialist guidance and a sensitive design approach.

Building Regulations Approval

Separate from planning permission, these mandatory regulations set standards for how buildings are designed and constructed in the UK. They cover safety, energy efficiency and accessibility, ensuring properties are built to a high standard of performance. Unlike planning permission, which focuses on whether you can build, Building Regulations determine how you build.

Making the Process Seamless

Navigating UK planning and property law can feel overwhelming, but we guide our clients through each stage with clarity and diligence – from securing planning permission to delivering a beautifully finished home.

What’s Next?

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Whether you’re looking for a heritage renovation or an imaginative new-build home, our Architecture team is on hand to create thoughtfully-considered and beautifully-crafted homes that will leave a lasting legacy.

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