Generally, homeowners will not require planning permission when replacing their windows or doors. This is because they are often like-for-like upgrades with no structural or major appearance changes to the property. However, there are a number of circumstances in which they may. Although it is ultimately the homeowner’s responsibility to obtain the permission, as a trusted installer, it is up to you to raise concerns with the homeowner.
Ensure that they seek appropriate advice from the planning authority and from a Chartered Surveyor.
There are a number of circumstances in which the customer should be made aware of the permissions required. We also advise against accepting an installation job until you have received confirmation that planning permission is not required. Or that it has been obtained.
Is the building in a conservation area?
If the windows being worked on or other buildings in the surrounding area are listed, planning permission will be required. In order to obtain planning permission, you and the customer must consider the following. The home and surrounding areas aesthetic should be retained as closely as possible. You should, therefore, guide your customer on this when specifying replacement windows.
Does the work require modifications to the building’s structure?
Take care to consider if the home’s structure is being modified. Flat windows that are being replaced with bay windows, for example, will require planning permission. Permission will also only be granted subject to a structural assessment. This ensures that the windows structure is capable of supporting the loads required during and after the installation.
Is the window critical for fire emergency egress?
All windows should be of the same size or larger than previous. This ensures they remain functional as an escape route in the event of a fire. They will also need to open wide enough to allow a person through and your customer should be aware of this if requesting a change in window size.
It is important to keep yourself informed so that you are able to inform your customer more accurately and prevent them, and yourself, from making costly mistakes. If there is any doubt, always check first or even consider hiring a surveyor for additional peace of mind. You may also want to consider becoming a TruFrame trusted installer, providing additional peace of mind to your customer. Click here to find out more about joining the TruFrame installer network, where you can benefit from not only our excellent service and products. But also hand tools for your website such as our powerful Quote Builder.
