Introduction
The kind of improvements you can make to your council property depends on the type of tenancy you have. We have listed some of the common questions we get below along with information and advice to help you.
Building advice
Do I need planning permission?
Advice on whether or not you require planning permission is available on the Planning Portal.
Do I need building regulations approval?
For information on what requires building regulations approval, or to submit an application for approval, please visit the Somerset Building Control website.
How do I dispose of asbestos?
Please see Asbestos and plasterboard information for information on the disposal of asbestos.
Garden and boundaries
Find out what you can do in your garden
- Find information on what you can build in your garden on the planning portal
- For information about property boundaries, visit GOV.UK – Search for land and property information.
- If you are planning works on a tree, visit our Tree preservation order page before you begin.
- To report an issue with a high hedge, visit our high hedge disputes page.
- For information on the height of fences, visit the Planning Portal.
Energy advice
How can I make energy improvements?
Visit our energy efficiency at home page for information on grants to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Further information on grants to make energy improvements can be found on the Government energy savings website.
You will find information on:
- replacement boilers
- insulation
- windows
- solar
- rainwater harvesting
I would like a grant to insulate my home
Visit our home energy team page for information on grants to insulate your home. You can also visit the Government energy savings website for further information.
I need to replace my boiler
Visit our home energy team page for information on grants to help with replacing your boiler. Further information can be found on the Government energy savings website.
Other general advice
I would like information on Disabled Facility Grants
You may be entitled to a grant to help to adapt your home so you may remain in it if you are disabled. View our Disabled Facilities Grants page for information on eligibility and how to apply.
I want to replace my windows
Find out if you need planning permission to replace your windows.
I want to create a driveway and drop my kerb
You can find information on whether you can do this by visiting our Dropped kerbs and driveways page.
I have a pest problem in my home or garden
For advice on dealing with pests in your home or garden, please see our Pest control page.