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Can I sell a house with an unauthorised extension?

It is possible but difficult. The buyer's solicitor will require either evidence the extension was exempt, a retention permission, a professional opinion, or indemnity insurance where the breach is time-barred. Most lenders will not release funds otherwise.

The first step is establishing whether permission was actually needed. Many rear extensions fall within the exempted development limits, and a professional can issue an opinion confirming that the exemption applied.

Where the extension exceeded the limits, retention permission is the clean solution but takes months and carries refusal risk. Resolve it before going to market rather than mid-sale.

Order of action

  • Measure the extension and check it against exemption limits
  • Check whether earlier extensions used up the allowance
  • Get a professional opinion where the exemption applies
  • Apply for retention where it does not
  • Consider indemnity insurance only for time-barred breaches

Sources

Last reviewed 28 August 2026. General information only — not legal or planning advice.

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