Guide to Planning Permissions for Windows
Standing between you and the windows of your dreams—for better or for worse, depending on how you feel about it—is a litany of forms, planning permissions, and regulations to navigate. Understanding the do’s and don’ts, as well as where and when you need approval, can significantly expedite the process and reduce frustration. Whether you’re building the home you’ve always wanted or renovating a listed building, our guide to planning permissions for windows in the UK will help you get the job done right the first time around, without unexpected costs or delays.
Replacing or installing new windows in London is subject to many laws and regulations, however, planning permission is not necessarily always a requirement. There are many factors that determine exactly which planning permission for windows is required, with some of the most important being:
Permitted development rights allow homeowners to make improvements to their property without applying for planning permission “where that would be out of proportion with the impact of works carried out,” (gov.uk, 2019). Typically, single-family homes that aren’t listed or in conservation areas fall into this category.
It’s important to note that PDR only makes allowances for minor changes that do not affect the neighbours. This is often interpreted as making renovations in the same style and appearance as the home’s existing features; however, the exact interpretation can vary between councils. Any additions or renovations that fall under PDR are still subject to building and design compliance regulations, such as standards for insulation.
Flats, maisonettes, certain commercial properties, and homes under Article 4 Directions do not fall under PDR and planning permission for windows is required. Double-check with your local planning authority or building manager before commencing work.
Properties in conservation areas and listed buildings often have stricter controls to protect our heritage, and even minor renovations typically need planning permission. For listed homes, planning permission is only granted if the new windows will as closely as possible resemble the original styles, materials, and construction methods used in the home.
Article 4 Directions allow local councils to restrict Permitted Development Rights in specific areas or for specific types of properties. Local councils can implement this measure to maintain the aesthetic appeal of specific areas and to deter unsuitable development. In areas under Article 4 Directions, homeowners must apply for planning permission for alterations that would normally fall under PDR, including installing new windows.
If you are unsure about the status of your home, please contact your Local Planning Authority for clarity before starting any construction or renovation projects.
It’s important to note that PDR only makes allowances for minor changes that do not affect the neighbours. This is often interpreted as making renovations in the same style and appearance as the home’s existing features; however, the exact interpretation can vary between councils. Any additions or renovations that fall under PDR are still subject to building and design compliance regulations, such as standards for insulation.
Flats, maisonettes, certain commercial properties, and homes under Article 4 Directions do not fall under PDR and planning permission for windows is required. Double-check with your local planning authority or building manager before commencing work.
Luckily, applying for planning permission for windows isn’t too much of a hassle. You may apply to any local planning authority (LPA) in the UK through the planning portal or contact your LPA directly. Ayrton Bespoke recommends the latter option as the first step in any project involving new windows, as it removes any doubt as to your home’s status or Article 4 Directions. Assuming that your home does not have Permitted Development Rights and that planning permission is required, you will have to:
These include detailed plans and drawings of the windows you’re planning on installing, including dimensions, materials, and other design specifications. Listed homes and those in conservation areas may require additional support materials, such as photographs and historical details, to demonstrate how the new windows will contribute to the preservation of the building. If you’re working with seasoned contractors, we strongly recommend asking them for advice on how to complete the forms and what materials to supply. Usually, your contractor will have dealt with the local planning authority before and know their expectations.
Submit your planning application through the online Planning Portal or directly to your LPA. Ensure that you include your completed application form, site and project plans, and a heritage statement if you’re making changes to a listed home. There are many online resources available to guide you in writing a heritage statement.
The application fee may vary depending on where you are and the scope of the project. Expect to pay around £200 or more. LPAs typically review applications and provide feedback within 8 weeks or so. For listed buildings and larger projects, especially ones affecting multiple-family homes or developments, the timeline may extend slightly. Once you’ve received approval, you may continue with the development, making sure to comply with the conditions set out in the decision notice.
One topic that occasionally confuses homeowners is the difference between building regulations and planning permissions. In reality, these are two entirely different types of regulation and oversight.
Planning permission refers to council approval for a building or a renovation project to proceed and, broadly speaking, serves two purposes: it aims to prevent poorly planned and executed building projects and renovations that negatively affect neighbours and helps to protect our architectural history, culture, and heritage by preventing modifications to protected structures.
Building regulations, on the other hand, regulate the methods, materials, and physical work done on construction projects, ensuring that all work meets legal standards for safety, energy efficiency, accessibility, and durability. Within the context of windows, building regulations look at performance aspects such as thermal performance, fire safety, and impact resistance.
To ensure compliance, homeowners often need to work with certified contractors who can certify that all work carried out meets building regulations. This is often a prerequisite for planning approval in multi-family homes or homes under Article 4 Directions. Homeowners with PDR who do the work themselves or rely on questionable contractors that use subpar quality methods or materials may introduce unnecessary safety risks and face challenges making insurance claims or selling their property down the line.
Ayrton Bespoke is a leading and fully certified designer, manufacturer, and installer of bespoke timber windows. We specialise in manufacturing conservation-spec timber windows, focusing on creating accurate replicas of heritage windows that don’t miss a single detail.
As trusted manufacturers and installers of regulation-compliant and conservation-approved timber windows, we provide peace of mind to clients by ensuring all our products meet the highest standards. Planning permission is typically not required for properties outside of conservation areas, but we advise those within to apply for permission to ensure that guidelines are adhered to. That said, for Ayrton clients, this is often just a formality, as we manufacture to conservation specifications. Article 4 and listed properties do require planning approval before work commences; however, we understand the process and how to get it done as quickly and painlessly as possible.
For beautifully crafted bespoke timber windows without the hassle of navigating bureaucracy, contact Ayrton Bespoke for an obligation-free quote today. Contact us at 020 8877 8920 or through our online portal.
Sources:
- https://interactive.planningportal.co.uk/detached-house/outside/windows-and-doors
- https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5d77afc8e5274a27cdb2c9e9/190910_Tech_Guide_for_publishing.pdf
- https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/responsibilities/other-permissions-you-may-require/conservation-areas?e4a90114_page=2&utm
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