Lean-to greenhouse.

[Ian Stirling]

I have been idly considering, for several years, a lean-to greenhouse, along the south facing side of the house. It's nowhere near a road or neighbours, and the house is sunken on that side, with a 1m path, to a 1-2m wall.

This would be integrated with ventilation, and cooling systems, to aid in house heating, to reduce bills, and keep it cool. (as insolation will reach 30Kw or so at peak)

Neglecting this aspect, what is this with regards to building/planning regulations? Is it a greenhouse, a conservatory, ...

Does this change if there is a 1cm air gap between this and the house?

[Phil L]

It's a temporary structure and you don't need planning permission, although you can expect a deluge of posts to tell you that you do, by the brigade who apply for planning permission each time they want to mow their lawn. Our building control aren't even interested in conservatories

[Ian Stirling]

Why is it a temporary structure? Serious question - I would hope it to last ~20 years with no maintainance (barring glass) and be anchored to the existing wall. Ok, it can be removed moderately easily, but, so can some of those german kit houses.

[Phil L]

Because if you sell the house, temproary structures don't come into it...if it was a permanent structure like an extension, then the buyer (or more accurately his solicitior) will want to see plans, dates passed, details of BCO visits etc, with temporary structures, you can dismantle and take them with you and they don't affect the price nor deeds or any other legalities concerning the property.

It may be anchored to the house but so is a side gate / fence / iron railings etc, they are attached *to* the house but they are not part of it IYSWIM.