We received planning permission for our conservatory but local council asked for exterior bldg materialsamples

Question

They did not tell us when we applied 8 weeks ago that they wld require samples. When i queried permission two wks ago they said they saw no problem with the conservatory. i asked if we cld go ahead with the bldg; they said it would be at our own risk. we have since completed the external structure and now - 8 weeks later - they ask for samples of the materials we are using for the building. everyone i spoke to said this was ridiculous; no websites mention samples ever being asked for. is the council being difficult or is this standard practice. anyone got any knowledge of this; would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

I don't fully understand your question - you say you have received planning permission but then say the council want samples. I think you may have not had FULL planning permission, but just CONDITIONAL (The condition being that you provide samples BEFORE commencing work). OK so it's ridiculous as most planning authorities are, but you can't get round the situation. Lets just hope they are happy with what you have used - Good Luck!

Answer 2

You should not have commenced with any works until you have it in writing that permission has been granted as if it's not, you will be forced to put back the house to it's original state, a very costly business both financially and emotionally.

Some councils require you to use materials in keeping with the surrounding properties. If you have used brick that matches your own property then there shouldn't be an issue but I would be concerned having done what you have done without having the permission in place. Make sure you don't upset your neighbours, one objection from them could prove fatal.

Best of luck to you, I do hope it all works out.

Answer 3

They DID say "at your own risk"!  However, as you have matched existing exterior materials you will not have any problem. Include a colour photo of what you have done including the wall it abutts to with the samples so they can see it blends.