Change of Use Applications
Full planning packages for commercial-to-residential conversions, HMOs, and mixed-use developments across the UK.
Overview
Change of use applications allow you to use a building for a different purpose than its current planning classification. Common examples include converting shops or offices to residential flats, creating Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), or changing from industrial to commercial use. The planning system divides land uses into classes (Class E for commercial, Class C3 for dwelling houses, Class C4 for HMOs, and others), and moving between classes often requires planning permission or prior approval. We prepare complete application packages including floor plans, elevations, supporting statements, and compliance documentation. Our experience covers all types of change of use — from single-property conversions to multi-unit residential schemes.
What's Included
- Use class assessment and eligibility check
- Planning statement and supporting documents
- Existing and proposed floor plans & elevations
- Fire safety & means of escape plans
- Parking & transport assessment support
- HMO licensing documentation support
- Noise impact assessment coordination
- Building regulation drawings for the conversion
Why Choose QM Designs
Unlock Property Value
Converting commercial property to residential can dramatically increase its value. Former offices and retail units often make excellent modern apartments.
Permitted Development Route
Many office-to-residential conversions can proceed through Prior Approval (Class MA) without full planning permission, saving time and uncertainty.
HMO Expertise
We understand the specific requirements for HMO conversions including minimum room sizes, amenity standards, and fire safety — requirements that vary between councils.
Investment Returns
Change of use projects typically offer strong returns for property investors. We help maximise the number of compliant units within the available space.
Complete Package
We handle everything — from initial feasibility through to building regulation drawings — so you have one point of contact throughout the project.
Our Process
Property assessment & use class review
Feasibility study — what can you achieve?
Pre-application advice with the council (recommended)
Drawing production — existing & proposed layouts
Planning submission & officer liaison
Building regulation drawings for the physical conversion
Support through to approval and discharge of conditions
Key Considerations
Use Classes Explained
The Use Classes Order groups land uses into classes. Key ones include: Class E (commercial — shops, offices, restaurants, gyms), Class C3 (dwelling houses), Class C4 (small HMOs, 3–6 people), Sui Generis (large HMOs 7+, pubs, takeaways, and uses that don't fit a class). Changes within the same class don't need permission; changes between classes usually do.
Prior Approval (Class MA)
Class MA allows commercial (Class E) buildings to be converted to residential (Class C3) through Prior Approval rather than full planning permission. Conditions apply — the building must have been in commercial use for at least 2 years, units must be at least 37m², and the building must not be in certain protected areas. We assess your eligibility and handle the application.
HMO Requirements
HMO conversions have specific requirements that vary by council. Most require minimum bedroom sizes (6.51m² single, 10.22m² double), adequate communal facilities, fire safety measures, and may need an HMO licence. In some areas, an Article 4 direction means even small HMOs need planning permission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a change of use?
A change of use occurs when a building is used for a different purpose than its current planning classification. For example, converting a shop (Class E) to residential flats (Class C3), or a house to an HMO (Class C4). The planning system requires permission for most changes between use classes.
Do all changes of use need planning permission?
No. Some changes are permitted under the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO). The most common is Class MA, which allows commercial (Class E) to residential (Class C3) conversion through Prior Approval. However, conditions apply, and some areas have Article 4 directions that remove these rights.
What is Prior Approval?
Prior Approval is a lighter-touch planning process where the council can only consider specific impacts — typically transport, contamination, flooding, noise, natural light, fire safety, and the impact on commercial viability of the area. It's faster and more certain than full planning permission.
Can I convert an office to flats?
In most cases, yes — either through Prior Approval (Class MA) or full planning permission. The building must meet minimum space standards, have adequate natural light, and comply with building regulations. Some areas have Article 4 directions that require full planning permission instead of Prior Approval.
What are the minimum room sizes for an HMO?
National minimum standards are 6.51m² for a single bedroom and 10.22m² for a double. Communal living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms must be adequate for the number of occupants. However, many councils set higher standards — always check your local authority's HMO standards.
Do I need a licence for an HMO?
Mandatory HMO licensing applies to properties with 5 or more tenants forming 2 or more households. Many councils also operate Additional Licensing schemes covering smaller HMOs. We can advise on the licensing requirements in your area.
How long does a change of use application take?
Prior Approval applications are determined within 56 days. Full planning applications typically take 8 weeks for minor developments. More complex schemes may take 13 weeks. Pre-application advice can help identify issues before you submit.
Can I convert a pub or takeaway?
Pubs, takeaways, and certain other uses are classified as Sui Generis (in a class of their own). Changes from Sui Generis uses always require full planning permission. We can advise on the likelihood of approval based on local planning policies.
What about building regulations for conversions?
Any physical conversion work will need building regulation approval. This covers structural changes, fire safety (especially important for flats and HMOs), sound insulation between units, ventilation, drainage, and energy efficiency. We provide building regulation drawings as part of our service.
Do I need to consider affordable housing?
Schemes creating 10 or more residential units (or sites over 0.5 hectares) typically trigger affordable housing requirements. The percentage varies by council — usually 20–40% of units. Prior Approval schemes are currently exempt from affordable housing contributions.
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