01
Use Class Review
We identify the current use class, proposed use class and the correct planning route.
Planning & Approval
Change of Use
Planning permission for changing how a property is used - from shop to flat, office to residential, barn to dwelling, or any other use class change requiring consent.
98%
Approval Rate
10+
Years Experience
Fixed
Fee
What It Involves
Change of Use Applications Handled from Strategy to Approval
Changing the use of a building is often more complex than it appears. The Use Classes Order dictates which changes require planning permission and which can proceed without consent. Getting the strategy right at the outset is critical.
We assess the current and proposed use class, confirm whether planning permission is required, and prepare a comprehensive application including all supporting documentation required to address the council concerns.
Common projects include converting commercial premises to residential, converting houses to flats, office-to-residential prior approvals, and agricultural building conversions.
Who This Is For
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Property owners converting commercial space to residential use
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Landlords converting houses into flats or HMOs
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Developers converting offices or retail units to apartments
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Farmers converting agricultural buildings to dwellings
What’s Included
A complete, fixed-fee package - no hidden extras.
Use Class Assessment
We identify the current and proposed use class and confirm the planning permission route required.
Planning Application
Full change of use application or prior approval application prepared and submitted.
Supporting Statement
Planning statement addressing the relevant policies and demonstrating why the change should be permitted.
Architectural Drawings
Plans and elevations showing the proposed new use and any associated alterations.
Prior Approval Guidance
Advice on permitted development rights for prior approval routes, such as office-to-residential conversions.
How It Works
A clear, structured process from first contact to final delivery.
02
Application Preparation
We prepare all drawings, statements and supporting documents for the application.
03
Submission & Approval
We submit and manage the application through to a decision, handling all officer queries.
Why Trust Apex Planning?
Over 10+ years, 500+ projects and a 98% first-time planning approval rate. We prepare every application to the standard required to succeed - first time.
Our Guarantee
98% Approval Rate
Thorough preparation and local authority knowledge make the difference on every submission.
5–10 Day Turnaround
Fast, accurate drawing packages so your project keeps moving without delays.
Fixed Fees
One price agreed upfront. No surprises, no hidden extras, no upsells.
Free Revisions
Council amendments handled at no extra charge until you have your approval.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions about our Change of Use service.
Does changing from office to residential always need planning permission?
No. Many office-to-residential conversions can proceed via the prior approval route under Class MA permitted development rights. Prior approval is simpler and faster than a full planning application.
Can I convert a commercial ground floor to residential?
It depends on the local authority and planning history. Some councils have Article 4 Directions that remove permitted development rights in certain areas.
