Your Guide to UK Commercial Property Use Classes
Do you want more clarity on the ‘use class’ of your UK commercial property? Are you unsure of how this classification system works? Or perhaps you want to apply for a change in classification?
Whatever your query may be, read on to see our guide to UK commercial property use classes.
How is commercial property defined?
A commercial property is any property that is not used for residential or domestic purposes, and is instead used for business purposes. This could include restaurants, shops, entertainment venues, sports facilities, offices and factories.
What is commercial property class?
Every single building in the UK is given a property classification to define what it is allowed to be used for. Both residential and commercial buildings will be categorised into one of these ‘use’ classes.
This system was introduced in 1948 and was updated over the years, including a series of new use classes in 2020 to enable property owners to change use classes more easily.
In this article, we will be solely addressing the most up-to-date commercial property use classes and guiding you through each one.
What are the commercial property use classes in the UK?
Your local council will categorise and assign the use class of your property. It is still worth being aware of the classes yourself to enable you to challenge any decisions or to more easily apply to change your use class in the future.
The table below covers commercial properties only and omits domestic use classes.
| Class |
Name |
Description |
| B2 |
General industrial |
A place used for carrying out an industrial process. |
| B8 |
Storage or distribution |
A place acting as a storage or distribution centre. |
| C1 |
Hotels and guest houses |
A property where guests board and where care is not provided. |
| C2 |
Residential institutions |
A place of residential accommodation where some degree of care is required, such as hospitals, nursing homes or boarding schools. |
| E |
Commercial and business services |
This class covers an array of buildings including shops, warehouses, financial or professional services, restaurants, cafes, offices, nurseries and leisure facilities. |
| F1 |
Learning and non-residential institutions |
This includes anywhere that provides education or exhibits artefacts or art. It also covers libraries, courtrooms or public worship buildings. |
| F2 |
Community |
A place where the community gathers such as public ice rinks, community halls, outdoor sports facilities, swimming pools and shops smaller than 280 sqm so long as there isn’t a similar shop within a 1000m radius. |
| Sui Generis |
No specific class |
Essentially a miscellaneous category for places that do not fit into any other class, covering anything from theatres to hostels to casinos. |
If you need more clarity, or if you wish to challenge any use class classifications or difficulties, please contact our expert team at BRM.
Here at BRM, we have extensive experience in property law to help you with any legal challenges or needs that may come your way. Our solicitors are renowned for providing tailored legal services with a personal approach to suit your specific circumstances. To discuss anything pertaining to your commercial site, please contact us to find out how we can support you.
