If you are a secure tenant you have the right to make changes to your home, but you need written permission from us before you can start any work. 

This is to make sure that the proposed changes are safe for you and your neighbours and meet current regulations.  

How to request permission 

If you want to improve or make changes to your home then you must get written permission before starting any work: 

• email: permissions@chesterfield.gov.uk   
• write to us: Housing Property Services, Stonegravels Depot, Old Brick Works Lane, Chesterfield, S41 7JD 

Please describe the changes you would like to make. If you feel that it will help to explain what you would like to do, include a basic diagram of the change.

A few examples of the things that you should get permission for are:     

• removal and replacement of doors or putting in arches   
• changing bathroom or kitchen fixtures  
• putting in a shower  
• internal alterations  
• decorating the outside of your home  
• building a garage or shed  
• laying a drive or hard standing   
• fencing    

For some improvements you may also need to apply for planning permission or building control approval, or require the services of a structural engineer. There may be additional charges for this, which you will be required to pay directly.     

What happens if I don’t request permission? 

If you do not get written permission before you start work, then you may have to return the property to how it was before. Even when permission has been granted, the responsibility for maintenance and upkeep of these items remains with the tenant. For example, if you install a shower over a bath where there was not one previously, the council is not responsible for future maintenance or replacement of the shower.  

Employing tradespeople 

If you plan to employ tradespeople, please ensure they are suitably qualified and registered with the appropriate governing bodies and that they can supply evidence of this to you. We will need to see proof that they are fully qualified before approval is given.