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Planning permission

Where a building suffers from damp, mould or damage to decoration or structure, a damp-proof course (DPC) may be required to prevent the issue from worsening.

A DPC is installed in a building to prevent rising or penetrating damp. These can be inserted into existing buildings, creating a layer which prevents moisture from entering the walls.

Installing or replacing an external damp-proof course is unlikely to require planning permission. Permission may be required if the damp proofing is part of a larger project which either changes the appearance of the dwelling or makes structural changes.

If you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any significant changes. Typically, installing damp proofing will require listed building consent from the local authority.

If you live in a Conservation Area, a National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or the Broads, you should contact your local planning authority for further advice, particularly if the external appearance of the building will be impacted.

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      The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2025 Planning Portal.

      The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2025 Planning Portal.