Do you need planning permission to install new windows?

Last updated: 26/06/2015.

What are the planning rules

Usually, planning permission is not needed for installation of new windows on your property. This also includes repairs, minor improvements and maintenance like repainting your windows over time which you can do comfortably well without requiring a nod from your local planning authority. Moreover, planning permission isn’t needed for installing new windows, which have a similar appearance to the once you have already used to construct your house. Something worthy noting here is that the authorities usually treat new bay windows as an extension meaning that permission might be required for this.Planning permission

In case the new windows that you intend to install are on the upper- floor side elevation, it is essential that they are obscure- glazed in addition to ensuring that none of them has an opening exceeding 1.7 meters above your floor level. But building regulations keep changing and it is essential that you stay up dated with the new developments with your local building code. For instance, new building regulations are now being applied to replacement glazing and it therefore means that you will need planning permission to install this glazing.

More often than not, the regulations usually apply to areas of great importance such as thermal performance, air supply, safety, ventilation and most importantly, means of escape in case of an emergency. While you might not require planning permission for installation of new windows, the installer you hire to get the job done should be registered with a relevant competent local person scheme. Such a registered installer is going to be approved by the local planning authorities to undertake the work in a way that it complies with the local building regulations with the local authority building control not being involved.

After the completion of the installation of the new windows at your home, you will be issued with a certificate showing that the work was actually done by an installer who is registered. Alternatively, the homeowner could decide to go for the DIY approach or use the services of an unregistered installer in which case you can ask your local building control body to issue you with an approval. In this regard, they are going to check the new windows that you have installed for compliance and will give you a compliance certificate if satisfied with the work.

When installing new windows, the local planning authorities usually insist the installation be done properly while providing a means of escape in times of emergency. This is of paramount importance and when installing new windows, the sizing of the opening should be appropriate and the potential of escape, especially in case of fire emergency should not be compromised in any way. Most importantly, the new windows that you intend to install should provide sufficient ventilation and you can be sure that you won’t have any problem with the local planning authorities.

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