Can I turn a shop into a bar?

Yes, it is possible to turn a shop into a bar, but it generally requires formal planning permission for a "change of use" from retail (often Class E or A1) to a drinking establishment (Sui Generis). While some flexible changes are allowed, converting a retail unit into a bar typically necessitates full planning, a new premises licence for alcohol, and potential building regulation approval.

Do I need planning permission to convert commercial to residential?

In the simplest of terms, you do not always need to apply for planning permission if you're looking to convert a commercial property (use class E)* to one or more houses or flats (use class C3).

Do you need planning permission to convert a garage into a bar?

Do I need planning permission? Planning permission for a garage conversion is not necessary in many cases, although it is always best to double check with your local authority first. Most integral garage conversions fall under Permitted Development which means there is no need to make a planning application.

What legal documents do I need to open a bar?

What Do You Need to Open a Bar?

• Business Licence. ...
• Employer PAYE Reference. ...
• Change of Use Permission. ...
• Alcohol Licence. ...
• Value-Added Tax (VAT) Registration. ...
• Signage Permit. ...
• Music Licence. ...
• Live Entertainment Licence.

Can you buy a commercial property and turn it into a home?

Converting commercial buildings to residential is possible but complex. Most projects require planning permission, especially if changing use classes or if the building is listed or in a conservation area.

Jon Taffer's 3 Tips for Running a Bar or Restaurant

What is the 2% rule in property?

The 2% rule in real estate investing is a quick guideline where a rental property is considered potentially profitable if its monthly rent is at least 2% of the total purchase price (including initial repairs/costs). For example, a $200,000 property should aim for $4,000 in monthly rent ($200,000 x 0.02). It's a useful first-pass filter to screen properties for strong gross cash flow, but it doesn't account for all expenses and market specifics, so a detailed financial analysis is still needed. 

Can I turn a shop into a flat?

Planning permission will always be required when converting a shop to a house or flat. It is therefore important to contact the Council's Planning Department, known as Development Management, before carrying out any work.

How much money will I need to open a bar?

For an average-size bar, inventory and equipment costs (including renovation costs) may range from £32,500 and £65,000 and do not include the actual alcohol and food that you will need to buy to ensure that your establishment is well-stocked with supplies.

Can anyone start a bar?

What licences do you need to open a bar? Once you've secured your dream bar, you'll need to contact your local council to register your business, acquire a licence to sell alcohol, and pay any appropriate fees — you can find out more and apply for an alcohol licence on the government's website.

Is it worth investing in a bar?

Yes, opening a bar can be a good investment. The average net profit of a successful bar is more than the average annual return from the stock market. Which is the best frame of reference for determining if an investment is good. Over the last century, the stock market has returned an average of 10% on investments.

What is the 10 year rule for garage conversion?

The 10 year rule applies to any breach of use of land or buildings (excluding dwellings) which has not been challenged by enforcement action for the period of at least ten years. A garage conversion changes the use from a non dwelling (garage) to a dwelling (somewhere you will live).

Can I sleep in my own commercial property?

You would be in breach of planning regulations, the council would only get involved if they actually found out. (They don't have the resources to go around checking that buildings are being used for their intended purposes).

Can I report my neighbour for running a business from home?

Should you report a neighbour for running a business from home? Not everyone will follow the guidelines for running a home business stated above and, especially if your neighbours' business is disturbing where you live (also known as a statutory nuisance), you have the right to report this.

What licence do I need to run a bar?

You will need a Personal Licence if you are authorising the sale of alcohol. As per the 2003 Licensing Act, it is a legal requirement for premises that serve alcohol, also known as licensed premises, to have a named Personal Licence holder.

What is needed to set up a bar?

Bar Counter Equipment Layout

• An ice bin, this will need to be close to where drinks are made.
• Sinks, both a hand sink and a larger three-compartment sink.
• A speed rail, to keep the most often used liquors nearby.
• Serving equipment, like an electric wine opener.
• Glassware, in a safe yet easily accessible space.

How to run a small bar?

8 Tips for Managing & Optimizing Key Bar Operations Costs

1. Managing Rent and Overhead. ...
2. Stay On Top of Licenses and Find a Trusted Lawyer. ...
3. Find, Train, and Retain the Best Bar Staff — and Pay Them Well. ...
4. Track Cost of Goods Sold and Pour Cost Often. ...
5. Market your Bar and Run Bar Promotions.

How do pub landlords make money?

Tenanted/Leased Pubs

Companies derive income from their tenants/lessees in two main ways – 'dry' rent and 'wet' rent. The dry rent is what you pay to occupy the building. Typically, there will be an initial deposit then a monthly rent, agreed for a three to five year term.

Does the 4-year rule apply to commercial property?

Does the 4-year rule apply to all properties? The four-year rule applies exclusively to unauthorised operational development (CLEUD) and the use of a property as a single dwelling (CLEU, Use Class C3). A common misconception is that the four-year rule also applies to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).

Can I buy a shop and turn it into a house?

Class E (Shops and Offices) may be converted to residential property subject to prior approval in which the Local Authority may look at factors like flood risk, noise, and space standards, but importantly, full planning permission would not be required.