Renovating in Scotland: the full guides
Plain-English, Scotland-specific guides to the projects we're asked about most — what needs planning permission, what needs a building warrant, what things cost, and the traps that catch people out. Written from the questions homeowners actually ask in Scottish builders' groups and forums.
Do I need planning permission?
The master guide to Scotland's two-consent system — with a decision path for every common project.
Read the full guide →Garage conversions
Turning a cold garage into a warm room — consents, insulation jump, costs and a Falkirk case study.
Read the full guide →Removing or altering internal walls
Open-plan living done safely — load-bearing checks, steels, warrants, and the stricter rules for flats.
Read the full guide →Extensions
The exact permitted-development limits — 4m heights, boundary rules, garden coverage — and when you need more.
Read the full guide →Conservatories & sunrooms
The 8m² warrant exemption, glazing rules, and why a "conservatory" and a "sunroom" are different in law.
Read the full guide →Garden rooms & offices
Height and boundary limits, the 2.5m rule, warrant thresholds, and using one as an office, gym or studio.
Read the full guide →Solar panels
When rooftop solar is permission-free in Scotland, the 200mm rule, and the conservation-area exceptions.
Read the full guide →💷 Cost calculator
Instant ballpark for your Scottish project.
Try the free tool →Renovation costs in Scotland
Honest 2026 price ranges for every common project.
Read the full guide →Loft conversions
Head height, dormers, warrants and cost.
Read the full guide →Selling without a building warrant
Missing paperwork? How to fix it before a sale.
Read the full guide →More guides coming — tell us what you'd like covered next. Ask a question →