Example Planning Confidence Report
This is a complete example of what arrives in your inbox. Every report is built for one specific address from that council's own planning decisions, so yours will show different comparables, different constraints and a different score.
This score reflects how closely the proposal aligns with comparable local decisions. It is not a promise of approval.
Why this score
- Strong precedent locallySimilar single-storey rear extensions approved in 6 of 8 comparable decisions (75%)
- Compliant with policyProposal respects established setback patterns and conservation area guidelines
- Neighbour sensitivityEaves height and depth within typical approval range for corner plots
At a glance
Comparable approvals nearby
Relevant local applications with similar proposals. In your report each reference links to the public council record, so you can check every one.
| Application | Proposal | Outcome | Key details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20/6842 | Single-storey rear extension, 4m deep, linking to existing kitchen | APPROVED | 22 months ago. Same road, similar plot. No conditions. |
| 21/0654 | Single-storey rear extension with pitched roof, 3.8m deep | APPROVED | 18 months ago. Adjacent conservation area. Approved with standard conditions. |
| 22/1328 | Rear and side extension with pitched roof, 4.2m deep | APPROVED | 11 months ago. Corner plot in same ward. Approved after minor amendments. |
Common refusal patterns nearby
Patterns observed in refusals in this local planning context. This is where you find the weaknesses in your own proposal before an officer does.
- Excessive eaves heightExtensions with eaves over 3.0m have faced 3 refusals in the past 18 months due to overlooking and loss of light to neighbouring gardens
- Lack of architectural detailProposals with flat roofs or minimal fenestration have been challenged as out of character with period housing stock
- Inadequate neighbour consultation2 refusals cited lack of pre-application discussions; officers favoured applicants who engaged early with neighbours
Safe size guidance
Indicative ranges drawn from comparable local approvals. Guidance, not guarantees.
| Dimension | Typical approved range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Rear extension depth | 3.5–4.5m | 5 approvals at 3.8–4.2m; conservation area guidelines suggest max 5m for corner plots |
| Overall height / ridge | 5.5–6.2m | Pitched roofs preferred. Match existing ridgeline where possible to maintain character |
| Eaves height | 2.6–3.0m | Heights above 3.0m face heightened scrutiny; 3 refusals in past 18 months at 3.2m+ |
| Side return / width | 1.2–2.0m | Narrower width (1.2m) reduces impact on neighbours. Wider returns (1.8m+) approved on corner plots |
Key constraints
Site-specific factors that influence the application or what permission is needed.
- Conservation AreaYes – Richmond Conservation Area. Pitched roofs and period detailing strongly preferred.
- Flat / MaisonetteNo – detached dwelling. Standard householder permissions apply.
- Article 4 DirectionNo – standard GPDO rights available for qualifying extensions.
- Neighbour ImpactModerate – corner plot with neighbours on two sides. Eaves height critical to approval.
- Additional ConstraintNone identified – property not listed or within flood risk zones.
- Heritage StatusNot listed. Built c.1930s suburban stock. Conservation area rules apply only.
Recommended route forward
Questions to ask an architect or designer
- Pitched roof design?Ensure the extension roof pitch matches or complements the existing property (typically 35–40° for 1930s suburban stock)
- Eaves height confirmed at 2.8m or below?Critical for conservation area approval and to avoid overlooking concerns; 3.0m is a ceiling, not a target
- Neighbour consultation planned?Pre-application discussions (even informal) with affected neighbours strengthen the application and reduce objections
This report is informational only, based on publicly available planning records and observed local patterns. Planning decisions are discretionary and may change with policy, context, and officer judgement. Always seek professional advice from a qualified architect, surveyor, or planning consultant before submitting an application. SurePlan accepts no liability for decisions made based on this report.
Get this for your address.
Your own confidence score, comparables and red flags. £49, by email within 24 hours. Not useful? Full refund, no questions asked.
Before you order
- Check whether you need permission at allSome projects are permitted development and need no application.
- See the national picture78 verified UK planning statistics, sourced to MHCLG and the Planning Inspectorate.
- Read the common questionsWhat the report covers, how the score works, and what it cannot tell you.