There’s never been a better time for landlords and investors to convert a commercial building to residential use, according to a leading architect.

Changes to residential development rights earlier this year mean commercial buildings (class E) can be converted to residential use (class C3) via permitted development. There’s also no longer any restriction on the size of building that can be converted or a requirement that it must have been vacant for three years.

Matthew Robinson (pictured) senior architect at Boyer, part of Leaders Romans Group, says these conversions are generally quicker to deliver and are a more cost-efficient option for developers.

Designed well, they can make a meaningful contribution to the housing shortfall as commercial areas are usually well connected to public transport and within walking distance of local amenities.

Architectural challenges include ensuring access to natural light and ventilation and having the ability to make improvements to the existing building fabric around thermal insulation and sound performance.

Local authorities will usually want homes to have private and communal amenity space, while most commercial buildings will be in well trafficked public areas which do not naturally make secure homes, so landscaping or providing a perimeter wall can provide security, explains Robinson.

At the mercy

However, any external changes to an existing building are usually outside of permitted development rights and subject to further planning applications, he says. “Developers will then find themselves at the mercy of local authorities.”

Robinson adds that these challenges can be avoided by intelligently sourcing existing buildings that are best suited for conversion. “Buildings that were once residential are obviously best suited to being converted back,” he adds. “If there are too many constraints, such as contamination or a poor existing structure, then it may well be better to demolish and rebuild.

“Engagement with architects and planning consultants from an early viability stage can enable developers to select the most suitable buildings for conversion and help avoid unforeseen challenges.”