For many entrepreneurs setting up a business, finding that perfect property is tricky. Even if you do find the ideal commercial premises, you may not be able to afford it! This can sometimes mean thinking outside of the box to secure the commercial space you need. One way of doing this is by turning a residential property into your new commercial property.
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Can This Be Done Legally?
The simple answer is yes – it is entirely possible to convert a property that is currently classed as residential use into commercial use. However, it involves a legal process and you must cover all the necessary steps to get it done properly.
Here are the 4 things to know about when doing this:
1. Contact Your Local Council About Change Of Use
The first and perhaps most important step is enquiring about change of use with your local council. The 1987 Town and County Planning Order sets out different categories or classes for buildings. Converting a residential property into a commercial property will probably mean that you need permission from your council to change the use it is classed for.
2. Think About Building Regulations
As well as a possible change of use, you need to factor in building regulations. Even if you’re not planning any physical work to the property when converting, they may still apply. The best course of action is to contact your local council to see if any regulations will be applied and to arrange an inspection. Failure to do so could see costly changes to the property enforced at a later date.
3. Fire/Health And Safety Regulations
These are both very important things to consider when turning a residential property into a commercial property. Making sure your premises adhere to the relevant regulations in both areas will keep everyone safe and also keep you out of legal trouble. Make sure you understand your responsibilities around health and safety and fire regulations – although it can seem like a headache, it cannot be ignored.
4. Use A Solicitor
From helping with conveyancing if you are buying a residential property to convert to advice around the legal issues of making the conversion, solicitors are invaluable. Not only will it save you the time of dealing with all the details yourself, but you have peace of mind that the conversion has been made to the letter of the law.
Get In Touch With Bowsers Today
If you need a professional and established solicitor, then call Bowsers today. We have been providing expert legal advice in the Cambridgeshire area for many years. From conveyancing services to advice on business law, we are the people to call when you need clear legal advice.
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