🏗️ How to Find Missing Planning Permission or Building Regulation Documents

If you’ve made changes to your home — such as an extension, loft conversion, conservatory, or even a garage conversion — you’ll need to be able to show that the right planning permissions or building regulation approvals were obtained.

But what if those documents have been lost, or you’re not sure if permission was ever granted?
Don’t panic — it’s often easier to sort out than you think.

1️⃣ Check What Type of Permission You Actually Needed

Not all works require formal planning permission.

🏡 Planning Permission

Usually needed for:

• Extensions beyond certain size limits

• Major changes to the exterior

• Conversions to flats or multiple dwellings

• Building in conservation areas or on listed properties

🧱 Building Regulations Approval

Covers the safety and quality of the work (even if planning permission wasn’t required).
This includes:

• Structural work

• Electrical installations

• Plumbing and heating systems

• Roof or window replacements

• Conversions (lofts, garages, basements)

2️⃣ Search Your Local Council’s Planning Portal

Every local authority now keeps a public record of planning applications online.

1. Visit your local council’s planning website (you can find it via www.gov.uk/find-local-council).

2. Enter your postcode or address in the search box.

3. Look through the list of applications to see what was approved for your property.

4. You can often download copies of the approval notice, application forms, and decision letters.

🟢 Tip: If the work was carried out by a previous owner, you’ll still see their applications — the permission stays with the property, not the person.

3️⃣ Check Building Control Records

Building Regulation sign-offs are recorded separately from planning applications.

To find them:

• Go to your local council’s Building Control department (most have an online search tool).

• Search by address or contact the department directly.

• Ask for copies of the Completion Certificate or Building Regulation Approval Notice.

If your council doesn’t have online records for older work, you can request copies by email — there may be a small admin fee.

4️⃣ If You Can’t Find the Documents

If you can’t locate any record of permission or approval, you have a few options:

🕵️‍♀️ Apply for “Retrospective” Approval

You can ask your local council for retrospective planning permission (known as a “Regularisation Certificate” for building control).

• This shows that your local authority has inspected and approved the work after it was completed.

• It usually involves a small inspection fee, and the council may need access to check that the work is safe and compliant.

📜 Use an Indemnity Insurance Policy

If the work is old (typically over 12 months) and you don’t want to apply retrospectively, your solicitor can arrange a “Lack of Planning Permission” or “Lack of Building Regulations” indemnity policy.

• It’s quick and inexpensive (often £50–£200).

• It protects both you and your buyer from future enforcement action.

• It’s commonly accepted by mortgage lenders.

⚠️ Important: Don’t contact the council about missing permission if you intend to take out indemnity insurance — once the council is aware of the issue, the policy won’t be valid.

5️⃣ Keep Everything Together

Once you’ve found or replaced the documents, store them with your Pre-Sale Information Pack.
Buyers love seeing proof that improvements were done properly — it adds confidence and value to your home.

Include copies of:
✅ Planning approval or permitted development confirmation
✅ Building regulation completion certificate
✅ Structural warranties or guarantees (if applicable)

💡 Final Tip

Sorting out missing planning paperwork early saves weeks of delay later on.
If you’re unsure where to start, use our “Need A Little Help” chat box and we’ll guide you through finding your local planning portal and what to ask for.

That way, when your property hits the market, you’re already prepared, protected, and one step ahead.