Certificate of Lawfulness in Christchurch — Permitted Development Proof
A legal document confirming your extension falls within Permitted Development rights. Protects you at resale — mortgage lenders and solicitors expect it.
What's included
- Existing and proposed floor plans
- Elevation drawings
- Site plan and block plan
- PD compliance assessment
- Council application and liaison
Certificate of Lawfulness in Christchurch
A Certificate of Lawfulness (CLPUD) is a legal document confirming your extension falls within Permitted Development rights. It is not planning permission — it is proof that you don't need it. In Christchurch, where a blend of older character properties near the Priory and harbour, post-war estates in Somerford, and newer developments in Highcliffe, this certificate protects you when you come to sell.
Why you need one
Mortgage lenders, solicitors, and buyers expect documentary proof that extensions were built legally. Without a certificate, a future buyer's solicitor may raise enquiries that delay or derail your sale. The £1,500 investment now can save months of stress later.
PD rules in Christchurch
BCP Council follows standard Permitted Development rules. Single-storey rear extensions up to 4m (detached: 8m) from the original rear wall do not require planning permission, subject to conditions on height, boundaries, and materials. Christchurch town centre has an extensive conservation area. Even minor external changes can require planning permission — always check before starting We assess your property against all PD conditions before applying — if your project doesn't qualify, we tell you upfront and recommend the planning application route instead.
What we submit
Existing and proposed floor plans, elevation drawings, a site plan, and a compliance statement demonstrating how the proposal meets every PD condition. We submit to BCP Council and manage the process through to the certificate being issued.
Typical properties in Christchurch
Houses in Church Street, Christchurch — residential properties near the historic Priory
Fig. 2
Detached post-war house with garage and garden, typical of Christchurch's Somerford and Mudeford estates
Fig. 3
Lawfulness Cert questions in Christchurch
Lawfulness Cert in other areas
Other services in Christchurch
3D Laser Survey
£650
A 1.5-hour on-site visit with a 3D laser scanner to capture millimetre-accurate measurements of your property. The foundation for precise structural calculations and planning drawings.
Structural Calculations
£350
Engineer-certified structural calculations for your extension or wall removal. Covers beam sizing, foundation design, and Building Regulations compliance.
Planning Application
£2,200
Full householder planning application preparation and submission. We handle the drawings, design and access statement, and council liaison from start to finish.
Building Regulations Drawings
£399
Technical construction detail drawings that satisfy Building Regulations. Covers insulation, drainage, structural details, and everything your builder and building control need.
Builder Introduction
£149
We match you with 2–3 vetted local builders who specialise in your type of project. Includes a professional brief so every builder quotes on the same scope.
Build Coach
from £49/mo
Ongoing expert support throughout your build. From fortnightly AI check-ins to weekly human coaching calls, builder mediation, and trade price verification.
Ready to get started in Christchurch?
Certificate of Lawfulness from £1,500. Fixed price, no obligation.
Every plan drawn by qualified drafters in Poole, Dorset
Serving homeowners across Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Wimborne, Wareham, and the wider Dorset area.
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