As a leaseholder, you must get our written permission before making changes to the structure of your home, shared areas or exterior. This is to make sure changes are safe and do not affect other residents.
You must:
- not make structural changes to your home
- not change window frames or your front entrance door - these are our responsibility
- get our permission before fixing anything to the roof or external walls, such as satellite dishes or awnings
Changes you can make without permission
You do not need our permission for minor alterations, including:
- painting and decorating inside your home
- fitting wardrobes or shelves
- replacing or adding light fittings, sockets or taps
Changes you need permission for
You must get our permission before you:
- make changes to electrical or gas systems, like major electrical work or installing a boiler
- install a new bathroom, shower or kitchen
- alter internal walls
- extend your home
This is not an exhaustive list. If you are unsure, contact the Home Ownership Officer at landlordservices@oxford.gov.uk.
In some cases, we may need to inspect your property before making a decision.
Changes we will not approve
Your lease requires your property to remain a private dwelling. We will not approve changes that:
- split a flat into separate units
- merge two flats into one larger unit
- use your flat for short-term holiday lets
- change layouts in a way that could cause noise nuisance
- involve basement excavations or loft conversions where the space is not part of your property or contains council utilities
- build on communal land or gardens
Do not spend money on architectural plans or professional fees for work that is unlikely to be approved.
How to request permission
Use the form to request permission to alter your home.
You will need:
- the property address
- a description and/or diagram of the proposed works
- any other supporting documents
- a signature from the Surveying Manager confirming permission for the specified works
Download the request for alterations form
Complete the form and send it to the Home Ownership Officer at landlordservices@oxford.gov.uk.
Do not start any work until you receive formal written permission. Starting work without permission is a breach of your lease and may result in additional costs, including legal fees.
Before and during the work
Check planning permission and Building Control
You may need planning permission and building consent before beginning work. We may make this a condition of our permission.
Tell your mortgage lender
Check your mortgage agreement, as you may need to inform your lender.
Use qualified tradespeople
This is essential for safety and to avoid affecting your neighbours.
You must:
- use competent professionals with appropriate liability insurance
- use Gas Safe certified engineers for gas work
- use NICEIC certified electricians for electrical work
Be aware of asbestos
Do not disturb materials that may contain asbestos and use a licensed contractor if removal is needed.
Refer to the Health and Safety Executive website for guidance.
Minimise noise and disruption
Be considerate of your neighbours during construction. Your lease requires you to avoid causing nuisance or annoyance.
Repair any damage
You are responsible for any damage caused to shared areas or neighbouring properties.
After the work is complete
When the work is finished, send us confirmation in writing that all requirements have been met.
Keep all completion or certification documents, as you may need them in future or when selling your property.
