Certificate of Lawfulness Services in London
Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) support for permitted development and existing works
What is a Certificate of Lawfulness?
Navigating planning law can feel like walking through a legal minefield, but obtaining a Certificate of Lawfulness doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re planning a loft conversion, rear extension, or need to regularise existing works, our professional architectural services provide you with the legal certainty you need.
A Certificate of Lawfulness acts as your shield against future planning enforcement action. Think of it as an insurance policy for your property development – once obtained, it provides formal confirmation from your local authority that your works are completely lawful. This isn’t just paperwork; it’s your guarantee that solicitors, mortgage lenders, and future buyers will have complete confidence in your property.
My streamlined online service combines technical expertise with deep planning law knowledge. You’ll receive professionally prepared drawings, comprehensive supporting statements, and expert assessment of your permitted development rights. This means no more sleepless nights wondering if your extension complies with regulations, no more delays during property sales, and no more expensive surprises from planning enforcement officers.
Your time is valuable, and unnecessary planning applications can cost thousands. My service ensures you take the right path from the start, maximising your chances of approval while protecting your investment for years to come.
Types Of Certificate of lawfulness
Certificate of Lawfulness – Proposed Development
(CLOPUD)
Get legal peace of mind before you build. This certificate confirms that your planned extension, loft conversion, or outbuilding falls under “permitted development.” It’s a vital step for ensuring your investment is legally protected before work begins.
Certificate of Lawfulness: Existing Development
(CLEUD)
Formalize what’s already there. A CLEUD confirms that an existing structure or use of land is lawful. This is essential for works completed without prior planning permission that have been in place for more than four years (or ten years for changes of use).
When You Need a Certificate of Lawfulness
- Permitted development extensions under Class A or Class AA
- Garden rooms, sheds, and outbuildings
- Property sale requiring planning documentation
- Loft conversions and dormer additions
- Existing unauthorised works over 4 years old
- Mortgage or refinancing applications
Our Certificate of Lawfulness Process
Property & Lawfulness Assessment
We review your property and assess the lawfulness of your proposed or existing development
Drawings & Evidence Preparation
We prepare detailed drawings and gather supporting evidence for your application
Council Submission & Liaison
We submit your application and handle all correspondence with the local authority
Certificate Issued
Receive your official Certificate of Lawfulness from the council
Why Choose Online Architectural Services
Navigate London’s planning regulations with confidence. Our experienced team handles all aspects of planning applications.
London Borough Expertise
Deep knowledge of all 32 London boroughs and their specific planning requirements
High Approval Success Rate
Proven track record of successful LDC applications across London
Council-Compliant Drawings
Professional architectural drawings that meet all local authority standards
Fixed Pricing
Transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees or surprises
Fast Turnaround
Quick preparation and submission to meet your project timelines
Related Services
Building Regulation Drawings
Compliant technical drawings for building control approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a Certificate of Lawfulness?
You may need one if you are:
- Carrying out works under permitted development
- Regularising existing works already completed
- Changing the use of a property
- Selling, buying, or remortgaging a property
Is a Certificate of Lawfulness the same as planning permission?
No. Planning permission grants approval for development. A Certificate of Lawfulness confirms that planning permission is not required.
What are the types of Certificate of Lawfulness?
There are two types:
- Proposed Certificate of Lawfulness (CLOPUD) – for works or use not yet started
Existing Certificate of Lawfulness (CLEUD) – for works or use already carried out
How long does the process take?
Local authorities typically take 8 weeks to determine an application, though this can vary depending on council workload and complexity