The following highlights some of the issues you will want to consider before undertaking any refurbishment work.
For further information on financial help with refurbishing your property, the follow grants and loans are available:-
Planning Permission:
Planning permission will probably be required if the refurbishment work involves:
Demolishing and building something new;
Making a major change to your building, eg building an extension
Change the use of your building.
It is recommended that you discuss this with our planning department at the earliest opportunity. They will be able to advise if you need planning permission and if you do, give advice on making an application.
If your property is in a conservation area there will be stricter rules around planning.
Building Control:
If you make any alterations to an empty property, you may need to discuss these. Building Control can offer advice and guidance on whether or not Building Regulation Approval is required and can offer advice on standards required.
Building Regulations are a set of minimum standards that all ‘building works’ must meet and they may apply to any extension or alteration that you make to your home. They cover all aspects of construction including the stability of the structure, fire safety, damp-proofing, insulation, ventilation, provision of facilities etc.
Renovation and VAT Reductions:
If your empty home has been unoccupied (continuously) for two or more years, you could be eligible for reduced rates of VAT payments on any refurbishment work undertaken if you use a VAT registered contractor and you don’t buy materials or do the work yourself. You will need to evidence that the property has been empty for two years. We can make enquiries with Council Tax and write a letter confirming how long the property has been empty for you to hand to your builder.
A rate of 5% (instead of 20%) can be charged by a builder where the property has been empty for at least two years. This reduced rate can be applied to repair, maintenance or improvements carried out to the fabric of the building.
If the property has been empty for 10 years or more prior to the work starting VAT may be zero rated on the sale of, or the offering of a lease which exceeds 21 years, providing the property remains in residential use. If the intention is to renovate the property and move in, rather than sell or lease, then you may still be able to make a claim under the DIY Builders & Converters Refund Scheme. The VAT on the building materials used can be reclaimed from HM Revenue & Customs.
For more information go to: https://www.gov.uk/vat-builders