If you’re thinking of changing your windows any time soon, it will be worth investigating whether there are any regulations you should be aware of before you start ripping out your old windows.

What is Planning Permission?

According to GOV.UK, planning permission is asking a person or organisation if you can undertake a certain piece of work on a building. After you apply, your local authority party (LPA) will decide to grant or refuse you permission by considering the following factors:

• The number, size, layout, siting, and external appearance of buildings.
• The infrastructure available, including roads and water supply.
• Any landscaping needs.
• What you want to use the development for.
• How your work would affect the surrounding area – for example, if it would block access to roads.

If you need planning permission but you continue to undertake work without being granted it, you could risk being served with an enforcement notice which will undo any work that has begun as well as have other negative consequences.

Planning Permission For Windows

Do you need planning permission to change your windows? Unfortunately, it’s not a simple yes or no answer. It depends on some circumstances. Let’s take a closer look at some of these potential circumstances to have a better understanding of the topic. From this article, we hope you’ll be given some clarity and you’ll know what the right next step is before changing your windows.

According to Planning Portal, you generally DON’T need planning permission if:

• You’re making minor repairs or improvements, such as repainting window frames.
• You’re replacing windows in a similar style and size to your current windows.
• You’re installing secondary glazing.

However, you DO need planning permission if:

• You’re installing new windows in your home in some cases. For instance, installing new bay windows at the front or your house will be treated like an extension.
• You’re installing a skylight that sticks out more than 150mm beyond the plane of the roof slope or higher than the top point of the roof.
• You’re installing an upper-floor side elevation window that is not obscure-glazed and can open (unless the opening part is 1.7 metres above the floor level).
• You’re renting the house, you must get permission from your landlord or management company.
• The building is listed and you want to add windows such as double glazed windows or uPVC windows.

If you find yourself in doubt about planning permission, or if you are unsure of policies within your local area, we recommend visiting or contacting your local authority before you start work.

Windows In Shrewsbury

For more information about double glazed windows from Salop Glass, please get in touch with us and a member of our friendly team will be delighted to assist you.