DLBP is very pleased to have secured a Lawful Development Certificate, on behalf of a private client, confirming the lawful use of an existing basement flat in Haringey, London.
DLBP was first approached by the owner and occupier of the basement flat to regularise internal works they had carried out to separate the living space from a shared hallway and services.
Following a review of this enquiry, we identified the basement flat did not benefit from planning permission so recommended regularising this by applying for a Lawful Development Certificate. This required us to present evidence which demonstrated the basement to have been in continuous use as a separate residential unit for at least four years (commonly known as the ‘four year rule’).
DLBP then proceeded in preparing an application by thoroughly reviewing a range of supporting evidence – including Council Tax records, tenancy agreements and photographs – and incorporating this into our supporting statement, and a statutory declaration prepared on behalf of the owner.
Whilst the application was under determination we liaised closely with the Council to suitably address all queries raised by providing additional evidence and attending a site visit, ensuring the tests required to demonstrate the basement’s lawful existing use were passed.
If you have undertaken works that do not benefit from planning permission and would like to understand how this can be regularised, contact our London office on 020 3713 8500 or via email at contact@dlbp.uk.