Householder applications take a summer dip, but demand for home improvement remains strong

As expected at this time of year, planning applications dipped - but this trend reflects seasonal behaviour rather than a lack of demand and could signify an even stronger Autumn to come, as John Van-Enker, Principal Town Planner at Planning Portal's Planning Guidance Service, explains.

Summer slowdown for householder applications

August saw a 15% fall in householder planning applications against the previous month of July 2025. Applications for larger home extensions followed the same trend, dropping 9% compared to applications at the same time last year.

“We often see a quieter August for householder applications,” explains  John. “Many homeowners prefer to put projects on hold during the summer months while they’re away or focusing on other priorities. Given the surge of householder applications earlier this year, a great drop during the summer slump isn’t hugely surprising.”

What callers are telling us about planning permission and home improvement enquiries

Despite the August dip in submissions, interest in planning advice and guidance has remained strong with a decided increased appetite for planning advice as we enter September.

“We’re speaking with lots of homeowners making enquiries about all kinds of alterations to their homes, from extensions and to loft conversions to outbuildings in gardens, as well as a significant increase in interest in renewable energy including solar panels and air source heat pumps” John explains. “What we’re hearing is that people are using the summer to plan and then move forward with their applications once they’re back into a routine in September.”

So, as expected, lower August figures are more of a pause than a decline.

Looking ahead: autumn rise in householder planning applications

Historically, the autumn months see a rise in householder applications, as homeowners look to secure planning permission and book in their renovations or extensions before the year ends. In recent years, demand for skilled trades has grown, with many homeowners turning to platforms like Checkatrade to find professionals quickly and keep their projects on schedule. You can find Checkatrade our Partner Marketplace, alongside a variety of planning, building, and property experts across the UK who can provide guidance and support throughout your project.

“We expect to see applications pick up again into September and October,” says John. “That’s when many homeowners want to get projects moving, especially larger projects or external works, like extensions and attic conversions, before the winter months slow progress due to adverse weather.”

The takeaway: strong interest in planning advice despite seasonal dip

While August confirmed the familiar seasonal dip in householder applications, the conversations our planners are having tells a different story: interest remains high, and we strongly expect householder submissions to tick back up in September and the coming months.

Got a project in mind? Find out if your specific project requires planning permission, and exactly how to get it, in a quick call with one of our experienced planning consultants.

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