The Planning Permission Lie – When Builders Say "It's Fine" (But It's Not)
It's one of the biggest cons in domestic building — and it catches thousands of homeowners every year.

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It is one of the biggest cons in domestic building — and it catches thousands of homeowners every year.
The lie
A builder tells you that planning permission is not needed for your project. They are confident, reassuring, and may even say they have done this type of work many times without it.
The reality
If the work requires planning permission and you do not get it, you can be forced to demolish the work at your own expense. You may also face enforcement action from your local planning authority.
How to protect yourself
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