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do you need planning permission for under stairs toilet

by Mr. Norris Roberts II Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Do I need planning permission to add a downstairs toilet? As long as you're not altering the exterior of your home, you won't need to apply for a full planning application for most downstairs toilets. For example, you'll be able to add a downstairs toilet window on the ground floor of your property without permission.Jul 14, 2022

Full Answer

Do most modern homes have a downstairs toilet?

Can you install a toilet on the ground floor?

Can you convert a cupboard under stairs to a loo?

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Can I put a toilet under my stairs?

With the correct construction work, the necessary ventilation, and fixtures which have smaller-than-average measurements, you will be able to fit a toilet under your home's stairs.

Do you need planning permission for a downstairs toilet UK?

Usually, adding a downstairs toilet to your home does not require planning permission, unless it is part of a larger extension. This does vary depending on where you live, whether your property is within a conservation area or is of historical significance.

Can you put a downstairs toilet anywhere UK?

If the downstairs WC isn't part of a new extension, you usually don't need planning permission. However, this may vary if you live in a listed building or within a conservation area. If you're in doubt, a quick call to the local council will put your mind at rest.

Can you have a downstairs toilet without a window?

Don't think it's an issue at all. A lot of houses have a loo under the stairs. The most important thing is that you've got one! Our downstairs loo doesn't have a window and is fine.

Can I put a downstairs toilet anywhere?

Can you put a downstairs toilet anywhere? Within reason. Installing a downstairs toilet is a common job for homeowners, so it's always possible to install it anywhere in the house.

Does a downstairs toilet count as a bathroom?

Yes, your downstairs toilet will be classed as a bathroom for insurance. Insurance quotes consider all en-suites, toilets, and wet rooms in your property as bathrooms.

Do I need a consent to add a toilet?

You may need a building consent if you are making alterations to your existing bathroom or laundry such as adding a: bathtub. toilet.

Does a downstairs toilet add value UK?

You can add an extra 5% to your home value by adding a downstairs toilet extension. Even a cloakroom sized toilet in your home on the downstairs level will certainly make your home more appealing to buyers and add extra value when it comes to selling.

Can you have a downstairs toilet off the kitchen?

In the past people have thought that a bathroom or toilet couldn't open out into a kitchen, but this isn't the case. As long as there is a basin where people can wash their hands before returning to the kitchen, then one door is enough. And you don't need a lobby.

How much does a downstairs toilet add to the value?

about 5%A downstairs toilet area or cloakroom suite fitting will usually add about 5% value onto a home. If you need some inspiration surrounding the best options for downstairs toilet projects, take a look at our blog, Fabulous Downstairs Toilet Ideas.

Can you have a toilet with no window?

Having a bathroom without windows can feel dark and dingy, and without sufficient ventilation, the room can soon become damp. However, with the right design, careful styling and good ventilation, your bathroom can become a relaxing, airy, and tranquil sanctuary, free from mould and full of fresh air.

How small can a downstairs toilet be?

Downstairs Toilet Minimum Size The minimum size for a downstairs toilet is 70cm wide x 130cm long. However, to make it a functional and comfortable space, you ideally want to be working with a footprint of 80cm x 140cm; in either instance the door would typically have to open outward.

Do I need a consent to add a toilet?

You may need a building consent if you are making alterations to your existing bathroom or laundry such as adding a: bathtub. toilet.

Do you need two doors between kitchen and toilet UK?

Previously there was a “two door” rule enforced between any toilet and the kitchen but these rules have now been relaxed as long as the new bathroom includes a sink for hand washing.

Does a downstairs toilet add value UK?

You can add an extra 5% to your home value by adding a downstairs toilet extension. Even a cloakroom sized toilet in your home on the downstairs level will certainly make your home more appealing to buyers and add extra value when it comes to selling.

Can you have a toilet next to a kitchen UK?

In the past people have thought that a bathroom or toilet couldn't open out into a kitchen, but this isn't the case. As long as there is a basin where people can wash their hands before returning to the kitchen, then one door is enough. And you don't need a lobby.

Building Regulations for a downstairs WC - MoneySavingExpert Forum

Your builder is correct, Part M of the Building Regulations refer. And yes, your builder will fit a 'ramp' which is actually called a level threshold at your primary entrance.

Minimum Size For A Downstairs Toilet - UK Bathroom Guru

You can only add a downstairs toilet if you have space. The minimum size required for a downstairs toilet is probably around 80cm x 140cm, which is what this example is, but could be as little as 70cm x 130cm in some circumstances (assuming only a toilet & hand basin are required).

Installing New Downstairs Cloakroom - Building Regulations

I wish to fit a new cloakroom into a room downstairs. It will be quite close to an existing sewer access point. I am considering using a toilet that has a small wash basin incorporated into the cistern lid. There will be an opening window in the room and I am aware that I need the electrics to...

Building regulations approval: When you do not need approval - GOV.UK

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Toilet off a kitchen, double doors? — MoneySavingExpert Forum

We are wanting to install a wc under the stairs but the door will be in the kitchen am i right in thinking that there needs to be 2 doors? Thanks in advance VLT

Why do you need a downstairs toilet?

There are many reasons to build a downstairs toilet. You might host regular parties and want a way to keep nosy guests from upstairs, or perhaps you want to be safe than sorry when it comes to your child’s bladder capacity. Whatever your reason, if you do decide a new WC is for you, you’ll need to consider one big thing: building regulations.

Do you need a professional to install plumbing in a bathroom?

If you want to ensure the plumbing in your bathroom meets UK building regulations, we highly recommend getting a professional in to handle the installation. Getting this right often requires specialist training and if things go wrong, you’ll likely be paying for it in the future.

Is a downstairs toilet wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility. A lot of councils, though not all, might insist that any downstairs toilet installed is fully accessible to wheelchair users. This would mean having a door frame wide enough for a wheelchair, plus enough floor space for it to park and move around.

Do you need to apply for a planning application for a downstairs toilet?

Rest assured for most downstairs toilets, as long as you’re not altering the exterior of your home, you won’t need to apply for a full planning application. However, we still recommend checking in with your council just to be sure. Homes in conservation areas or listed buildings have stricter rules about alterations.

Will I need planning permission?

Okay, this has nothing to do with building regulations but still, you’re probably wondering about planning too.

Why install a downstairs toilet?

If you have a growing family or elderly parent moving in, installing a downstairs toilet creates an easy access option for those who may struggle to get up the stairs. It’s also equally as great for young children beginning to use the toilet for the first time, who might not make the journey upstairs in time.

Why install an additional toilet?

The installation of an additional toilet helps to prevent the need to compete for bathroom time.

How do mirrors make a toilet feel bigger?

Mirrors can make your toilet suite feel bigger by bouncing light around the room and creating the illusion of more space .

What is the best ventilation for under stairs?

Ventilation. As the majority of under stairs cupboards don’t have a window that leads to outside, the most suitable ventilation is the installation of a fan. There are two main fan options. Standard fans are manually turned on and off by the user by pulling a cord. A humidistat fan detects the humidity within your bathroom ...

How to brighten up a toilet room?

Use bold colours to help brighten up your toilet room and boost your mood every time you nip in to use the loo.

How to get rid of toilet waste?

Connecting To A Soil Pipe . The most common way to get rid of your toilet room waste is to adapt the current soil pipe used to carry waste from other washrooms in your home. The waste will then feed to a soil stack (waste pipe) located on the side of your house.

What is towel rail?

Towel rails help to make any suite look contemporary. Available in a range of sizes, they heat up your room whilst warming your towel. Opt for a sleek design to take up minimal floor and wall space.

Why do people use closet toilets?

A closet toilet is also a great staircase idea if you have young children, as it saves a trek up and down stairs whenever they need to visit . Plus it’s easier to access for elderly parents if it’s a struggle getting up and down stairs.

What to do with a downstairs loo?

While it might be a functional space, a downstairs loo is a great place to show off a more daring decor. Have fun with a bold paint colour or flamboyant wallpaper idea. You’ll only need a pot of paint or a roll of wallpaper, so it won’t cost a fortune and is a great opportunity to have a bit of fun.

What to use for walls near a basin?

Tiles are a practical choice for walls near a basin. Start with a paler colour at the bottom to add a sense of space, introducing a darker shade as you go upwards. Tiling on the diagonal will add a pop of pattern without making the space feel too busy.

Can you run hot water in an understairs loo?

Adapting existing plumbing to run hot and cold water into an under-stairs loo should be possible. You can either pick up pipework from the kitchen (and run it under the floor) or from a bathroom above.

Can you put a loo under stairs?

Bulky furniture and fittings will crowd an under stairs loo, so downsize with neat, slimline storage that can slot into a small space. A compact basin with vanity unit underneath has space inside for storing loo rolls and cleaning products and will tuck neatly in under the stairs or into a tight corner.

Can you make a downstairs loo with an under stairs cupboard?

Or maybe you’d like another loo for when family and friends pop by. If you have an under stairs cupboard that’s big enough, chances are that it can be adapted to create a downstairs loo.

Is plumbing all in one?

Another bonus of this arrangement is that your plumbing is all in one place, minimising the amount of exposed pipework you’ll need to box in.

How to find out if a project is approved?

The easiest way to find out is to ask your local council planning department. Most have a pre-approval process where you can write/email with your idea and they will give you advice. Check out your local council website.

Do you need planning permission to add a toilet?

In my understanding - you might not need planning permission, but to add a toilet, I'm almost sure you DO need building control approval. I may be mistaken though...

What are permitted development rights?

Building projects that normally have permitted development rights include: industrial premises and warehouses. some outdoor signs and advertisements - though there are special rules around adverts. demolition - but before you begin you must get approval to demolish from your local planning authority ( LPA) through your local council. ...

Do you have to go through planning permission?

If your building project benefits the local community, and the community supports it, you may not have to go through the normal planning permission process. Neighbourhood planning lets your community grant planning permission directly under certain circumstances.

How much space does a T toilet need?

This might not even be necessary with t toilet under stairs as we will typically have at least 6 feet (182) of space.

When fitting a new branch unto existing pipes, do you need to ensure that everything is installed properly?

When you fit the new branch unto the existing pipes you need to ensure that everything is installed properly. Nothing is more frustrating than a blocked toilet. Except for a broken sewer pipe which could also be possible if you don’t know what you are doing.

Why is the corner cut off in a bathroom?

Even the door is made to measure. The corner is cut off in order for the door to close under the stairs. The basin and the toilet is stylish and place in the center to make it as comfortable as possible to sit and do your business.

What is the tallest part of a toilet?

The tallest part of the toilet space is used for washing hands and the mirror is also placed here. This way you have the low ceiling where you sit and the “high” ceiling where you stand up. Brilliant. The toilet closes off with two doors.

Can you connect a toilet to a pipe?

You need to connect the loo to the pipe system. This can be a challenge if you do not have a toilet directly above or below the stairs. So make sure the toilet can be connected to the plumbing. Otherwise, you might be able to fix this by connecting the toilet to pipes that can lead the drain into the sewer.

Is the next toilet bigger?

The next toilet is not much bigger , but you have a separate sink/mirror area.

Can you use a bathtub under a staircase?

Bathtub fitted under the staircase. This is a brilliant use of space. The space below the first part of the staircase is practically impossible to use for other than draw ers for storage . But for many people storage is not a problem, if you have downsized a lot .

Do most modern homes have a downstairs toilet?

Most modern homes have a downstairs toilet but adding one can make a difference especially for those with a larger family. Here are some things to consider

Can you install a toilet on the ground floor?

The door frame has to be wide enough to get a wheelchair through, and there needs to be enough floor space to park a wheelchair and manoeuvre it around.

Can you convert a cupboard under stairs to a loo?

This stipulation in many cases rules out converting a cupboard or space under the stairs into a downstairs loo as there is just not enough space. There are also rules about having toilets opening directly onto a living space or a kitchen rather than a hallway or a bedroom. Previously there was a “two door” rule enforced between any toilet and the kitchen but these rules have now been relaxed as long as the new bathroom includes a sink for hand washing.

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1.Everything you need to know about downstairs toilet …

Url:https://resi.co.uk/advice/cost-and-planning/downstairs-wc-building-regs

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Url:https://www.more-bathrooms.co.uk/help-advice/2020/12/converting-an-under-stairs-cupboard-to-a-toilet-how-to-guide

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Url:https://www.idealhome.co.uk/hallway/hallway-ideas/under-stairs-toilet-ideas-286503

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Url:https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/4858265/building-regs-permission-needed-for-a-new-downstairs-toilet

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5.Planning permission: When you do not need it - GOV.UK

Url:https://www.gov.uk/planning-permission-england-wales/when-you-dont-need-it

19 hours ago  · Have you read the sticky on this board regarding planning permission v building control? Apologies if you have, but it's not clear from your post. Think that might help, if not! In …

6.Brilliant Under-Stairs Toilet Ideas (+ Things To Consider …

Url:https://www.godownsize.com/toilets-bathroom-built-in-under-staircases/

34 hours ago Some building projects do not need planning permission. This is known as ‘permitted development rights’. Building projects that normally have permitted development rights include: …

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