House alterations for leaseholders

Before making any changes to your home's structure, shared areas, or exterior, you need to get our written permission. We need to ensure the interests of all residents in the block are protected, as Oxford City Council has a stake in the property.

We'll only refuse permission for valid reasons. Sometimes, we might need to inspect or investigate before deciding. Remember, making unauthorised alterations can lead to issues if you decide to sell your home. For example, changes to internal walls could mean your home no longer matches the lease plan, a key part of your lease agreement.

Key points to remember:

• structural alterations to your home are not permitted
• the window frames are our responsibility and you are not allowed to change them
• the front entrance door to your flat is our responsibility and you are not allowed to change it
• fixing anything to the roof or external walls, like satellite dishes or awnings, requires our permission

How to request permission for alterations

Download the Request for Alterations form.

Fill it out and send it back to the Home Ownership Officer at landlordservices@oxford.gov.uk.

Remember, do not start any work until you receive formal permission. Starting work without it is a breach of your lease and could lead to additional costs, including legal fees.

Planning permission and Building Control

You might also need planning permission and building consent before beginning work. We often make it a condition to obtain these when granting permission.

Alterations you don’t need to tell us about

Certain minor alterations don’t require our notification:

• painting and decorating the interior of your home
• fitting wardrobes or shelves
• replacing or adding light fittings, sockets and taps

Alterations that require permission

You need our permission for:

• changes to electrical or gas systems, like major electrical work or installing a boiler
• installing new bathrooms or kitchens
• installing showers
• altering internal wall structures
• extending your home

This is not an exhaustive list. If unsure, contact the Home Ownership Officer at 01865 249811 or landlordservices@oxford.gov.uk.

Internal alterations and usages that will not be allowed

Your lease requires your property to remain a private dwelling. The following alterations will not be approved:

• splitting a flat into separate units
• merging two flats into one larger unit
• using your flat for short-term holiday lets
• alterations causing potential noise nuisance by changing room arrangements
• basement excavations
• loft conversions, especially if the loft contains Council utilities or isn’t part of your property
• developments on communal estate land or shared gardens

It’s wise not to spend on architectural plans or professional fees for developments likely to be denied.

Choosing tradespeople for your project

Using qualified tradespeople is essential for everyone's safety. Changes in your home can impact your neighbours.

You must:

• hire competent professionals with adequate liability insurance
• use GASSAFE certified individuals for gas work
• use NICEIC certified individuals for electrical work

Keep all completion or certification documents for future reference or to show prospective buyers.

Consideration of noise

Be mindful of your neighbours regarding the work process and hours. Your lease specifies avoiding nuisance or annoyance.

Informing your mortgage lender

Inform your mortgage lender about your planned alterations if required.

Responsibility for damages

Ensure any damage caused by your work to shared areas or neighbouring properties is repaired.

Asbestos awareness

Asbestos isn’t usually a problem unless disturbed. Avoid disturbing materials suspected of containing asbestos. For asbestos removal, contact a licensed contractor. Find details at the Health and Safety Executive website.

Completion of alterations

Once alterations are complete, inform us with a confirmation letter that all requirements have been met.