Do you need planning permission for painting your London home

Painters and Decorators London • April 9, 2024

When it comes to home improvement projects, painting is often considered one of the simplest yet most effective ways to enhance the appearance of a property. However, if you're a homeowner in London looking to give your house a fresh coat of paint, you might be wondering whether you need to navigate the complexities of planning permission before picking up a paintbrush. In this article we will cover the factors to consider when it comes to planning permission and painting your home in London.

What is planning permission?

Planning permission is formal approval granted by a local government authority, usually a council or planning department, for the construction, alteration, or change in use of buildings or land. It is required for most types of development projects to ensure that they comply with local planning policies and regulations, as well as broader considerations such as environmental impact and the well-being of the community.

What is permitted development?

Permitted development refers to certain types of minor building works and changes that can be carried out without the need to obtain formal planning permission from the local authority. These permitted development rights are set out in legislation and regulations and allow homeowners and developers to make small alterations to their properties without having to go through the full planning application process.

Painting your property is generally considered a cosmetic alteration rather than a structural change

Does painting and decorating require planning permission?

The short answer is: in most cases, no, you do not need planning permission to paint your home in London. Painting your property is generally considered a cosmetic alteration rather than a structural change, and as such, it falls under the category of "permitted development." This means that you can typically go ahead and paint your home without seeking formal approval from your local planning authority. However, there are a few important caveats to keep in mind:

Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas: If your property is a listed building or located within a conservation area, special restrictions may apply. In these cases, you may need to obtain consent from your local council before making any alterations, including painting the exterior of your home. It's always wise to check with your local borough planning authority to determine whether any additional permissions are required.

Colour Restrictions: While you're generally free to choose the colour of paint for your home's exterior, there are some exceptions. If you live in a conservation area or a property covered by a homeowners' association (HOA) or similar governing body, there may be regulations or guidelines regarding the external appearance of properties. These could include restrictions on certain colours or finishes, so it's worth checking any relevant regulations before proceeding.

Listed Building Consent: If your property is listed, even if you're only planning to repaint it in the same colour, you may still need to obtain listed building consent. This is because any alterations to listed buildings, including changes to their appearance, are subject to strict regulations aimed at preserving their historic character and architectural significance.

Advertisement Consent: If you're planning to paint a mural or any form of advertisement on the exterior of your property, you may need to obtain advertisement consent from your local planning authority. This applies even if the advertisement is temporary or non-commercial in nature.

Neighbourhood Considerations: While planning permission may not be required for painting your home, it's always a good idea to consider the impact of your chosen color scheme on the surrounding neighborhood. Opting for garish or unconventional colours could potentially upset your neighbours and even affect property values, so it's worth being mindful of the overall aesthetic harmony of your area.

In summary, painting your home in London typically doesn't require planning permission, unless you live in a listed building or conservation area, or if you're planning significant alterations such as painting a mural or advertisement. However, it's important to familiarise yourself with any relevant regulations and seek advice from your local planning authority if you're unsure. With careful consideration and adherence to any necessary guidelines, you can give your home a fresh new look without running afoul of planning laws.

For help with painting your London home, call Painters and Decorators London today.

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Is Wallpaper Back in Fashion?

By Painters and Decorators London • July 20, 2025

Is Wallpaper Back in Fashion? Absolutely — Here's Why Over the past few years, wallpaper has made a stylish comeback — and it's not the dated floral prints you might remember from your nan’s living room. From bold botanical prints to textured neutrals, wallpaper is once again a design favourite, and it's showing up in modern homes, boutique hotels, and even high-end office spaces. So, what’s driving the wallpaper revival? Let’s take a closer look. A Creative Comeback Wallpaper has evolved in both design and application. Thanks to modern printing techniques and innovative materials, today’s wallpaper options are more diverse than ever. Whether you want to make a statement with a feature wall, add depth with a textured finish, or go bold with geometric patterns, there's a wallpaper to suit every taste and room. Instagram-Worthy Interiors Interior trends on social media have had a huge influence. Homeowners are now looking for ways to add personality and style to their spaces — and wallpaper offers just that. A well-chosen print can completely transform a room, creating a high-impact look that paint alone can’t always achieve. Easier to Use Than Ever One of the reasons wallpaper went out of favour was because it was difficult to install and even harder to remove. That’s no longer the case. Peel-and-stick options and paste-the-wall papers have made installation simpler and removal far less stressful. For those who like to switch up their style frequently, this makes wallpaper a much more appealing option. Adds Texture and Warmth Wallpaper isn’t just about colour and pattern — it’s also a fantastic way to add texture. Grasscloth, linen-effect, or embossed designs add visual interest and a tactile element that paint can’t replicate. It’s particularly effective in rooms where you want to create a sense of luxury or cosiness, such as bedrooms, dining rooms, or lounges. How to Use Wallpaper in 2025 If you're thinking about incorporating wallpaper into your home, here are a few modern tips: Feature walls : One wall can make a big statement, especially behind a bed, fireplace, or in an entryway. Ceiling wallpaper : Yes, really — it can add a dramatic and unexpected twist. Small spaces : Powder rooms, hallways, and alcoves are perfect spots for bold prints. Layering with paint : Use wallpaper in combination with painted panels or wainscoting for a classic-meets-contemporary look. Let Us Help You Get It Right At Flynn & Co Painters and Decorators London , we stay on top of the latest trends in interior decorating, and we love helping clients bring their vision to life. Whether you’re considering a dramatic mural or something subtle and sophisticated, we offer professional wallpaper installation that’s clean, precise, and built to last. Thinking of adding wallpaper to your next decorating project? Get in touch today for a free consultation — and let’s bring your walls back to life.