Understanding the Uses of D1 and D2 Property

July 11, 2017

When it comes to buying or selling property, it is essential that what you are after meets the correct classification. There are many different types of property classification, from A1 to D2. Many people can easily become confused between D1 and D2 commercial property. Here we detail the difference between the two and the importance of knowing which is which, whether purchasing or selling such property.

Importance of Classification

Classifications for properties are often defined by local authorities, meaning that certain buildings can only be used for specific activities. For example, properties that are defined as Class A3 can only be used to sell food and drink and no other purpose. This means that local governments and councils can implement their plans for towns and cities by determining what types of buildings can go where.

If in a residential area there is a problem with a lot of on street parking from workers, they may want to prevent more offices appearing in that area. This could be done by classifying other buildings not with a B1 classification (business use) being built, so that no more offices can appear in the area.

D1 – Non-residential

Two commercial property classifications which are similar are that of D1 and D2 buildings. When planning to buy D1 and D2 property with DeVono, it is vital that you get the right classification for the intended use of the building.

D1 class refers to non-residential institutions. This includes buildings being used for medical and health services, as a nursery, to display art, providing education, as a library, public hall or for public religious worship. It can get a bit more complicated with restricted D1 use. These can either restrict the building for that specific use (such as it being restricted only for medical use) or restricting against, so it cannot be used to display art, for example.

D2 – Assembly and Leisure

Properties that are defined as D2 class cover those used for assembly and leisure. This includes the likes of a cinema, concert, bingo or dance hall, swimming pool, gymnasium or other indoor or outdoor sports not using motorised vehicles or firearms. Therefore if you are hoping to set up such a facility or sell this type of property, you must ensure it falls under this class.

Hopefully this makes the difference between D1 and D2 commercial property clearer. For more specifics and further information, check out the amended Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987.

EAN Content

Content shared by this account is either news shared free by third parties or sponsored (paid for) content from third parties. Please be advised that links to third party websites are not endorsed by Estate Agent Networking - Please do your own research before committing to any third party business promoted on our website. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

You May Also Enjoy

Commercial Agent Talk

Why Exterior Cleaning Matters for Commercial Buildings

First impressions are formed long before anyone walks through the front door. For commercial buildings—be it a warehouse, office, or retail space—the state of the exterior often speaks louder than signage or branding. Cleanliness, order and upkeep all play into how a business is perceived, and exterior cleaning is a fundamental part of building maintenance…
Read More →
Breaking News

Government to help SME builders

The Government has announced a package of proposals to directly help small and medium sized builders (SMEs) and they include a ‘Medium’ sized site definition to enable more proportionate planning requirements, streamlined planning for ‘Minor’ sized sites and more targeted support for access to land and finance. Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation…
Read More →
Estate Agent Talk

Guide to deciphering property surveys

To help buyers navigate the world of property surveys, Cheke & Co has compiled a step-by-step, guide: Why do I need a property survey? Having a professional survey report is crucial to making informed decisions when purchasing a property. Our reports provide you with expert advice to: Make a reasoned and informed decision on whether…
Read More →
Breaking News

UK housing market springs back: Busiest May for home sales since the 2021 pandemic boom

Buyers and sellers have sprung into action after Easter, with the number of sales agreed in May the highest in four years Most sellers are also buyers who are seizing the opportunity to agree purchases, enticed by some attractive mortgage deals and the ability to borrow up to 20 per cent more Increased market activity…
Read More →
Breaking News

The five MOST searched mortgage questions answered by a property expert

With terms including the word ‘mortgages’ generating over half-a-million Google searches a month (595k) in the UK alone, it’s clear that many prospective homeowners are still confused about how mortgages work, what they’re eligible for, and how to navigate a challenging market. To help provide clarity, Luke Williams, Specialist Property Advisor, at Pure Property Finance,…
Read More →
Breaking News

53% of Tenants likely to challenge rent increases, but fair landlords have little to fear, says LRG report

More than half of tenants say they are likely to challenge rent increases under the incoming Renters’ Rights Bill (RRB), according to new research by LRG (Leaders Romans Group). However, the figures also show that nearly half of the tenants surveyed would not look to challenge a rent increase, a reflection, LRG says, of the…
Read More →