Do I Need Permission To Put A Solid Roof On My Conservatory?

If you are considering altering your conservatory with the installation of a solid roof - you are not alone! There has been a big surge in this trend over the last 10 years, with homeowners increasingly making this change to enhance energy efficiency and to make the room more functional in all seasons. But before you jump into this enhancement, let's make it clear straight away; there are certain rules and considerations regarding conservatory roof replacements, and it is essential to know them. Let's find out whether you need permission to erect a solid roof on your conservatory and how to approach it.

Permitted Development Rights Explained

In most instances, the installation of a new roof to a conservatory is classed under what is known as “permitted development rights”. This implies that you may not need to seek planning permission. Despite this, there are certain conditions and exemptions, that you ought to be aware of:

Original Planning Permission

Look at the original planning permission for the structure. Older permissions might include a condition that requires the roof to be opaque.

Size and Height Restrictions

There are limitations in terms of size and heights that your conservatory must fall within to qualify as permitted development. Typically, the highest point of the roof should not be taller than the highest point on your current roof.

Building Regulations

You may not need to have planning permission; however, it is likely to be subject to building regulations approval.

When Might You Need Planning Permission?

There are instances when it is necessary to seek planning permission:

Listed Buildings

If it is a listed building in most cases permission will be required for any proposals likely to affect the building including altering a conservatory roof.

Conservation Areas

Restrictions are often placed on properties situated in conservation areas. However, it is advisable to contact the local planning authority.

Substantial Changes

If the new roof looks entirely different from the old one, and conceivably new aspects are introduced into the structure of the conservatory, a permission must be sought.

Exceeding Limits

In cases where the conservatory with the new roof (and any other construction) would be greater than the permitted development house in terms of size, then an application will have to be made.

Building Regulations: A Necessary Step

Planning permission may not be required, however almost certainly such a change will have to abide by building regulations. This is because the switching of the weighty glazed roof to solid structure is considered a material alteration to a building. Some fundamental areas which require these are:

– Structural integrity

- Energy Efficiency

- Ventilation

- Fire safety

It should be noted that any responsible company should already have knowledge and understanding in this area and will assist you in constructing a new roof for your conservatory that meets the relevant authorities’ requirements.

The Reasons Why It Is Important to Get It Right from The Start

Though getting permissions and understanding regulations may appear to be a burden, there are a lot of advantages to ensuring this is done prior to commencing work:

Legal Protection

Ensuring your new roof is legally compliant will help to avoid any issues if you later decide to sell your home.

Security

The building rules and regulations assures your new conservatory roof is safe and that it offers a high level of energy efficiency.

Preventing Overspending

Obtaining the correct approvals at the beginning of the project will save you unnecessary amendments or potential legal action in future.

Steps to Follow before Commencing with Any Project

• View the original granted planning permission documents
  Go over the documents that are from the time the conservatory was first constructed.
• Liaise with your Local Planning Authority
  They will be able to advise you of rules and regulations that apply to your specific area.
• Speak with Professional Installers
  Companies that have considerable experience like Smart Conservatory Solutions can help throughout the entire process and often take care of the building regulations applications for you.
• Certificate of Lawfulness
  If you have any doubt, you can apply for a Certificate of Lawfulness from your local council. This states that a planning permission is unnecessary for the project concerned.
• Place Everything on Paper
  Whichever approach you choose, be sure to obtain written evidence that either compliance or permission has been granted.

Choosing the Right Company

Installing a solid structure in place of the conservatory roof provides the potential of using the space all year round, and this could help to increase the worth of your home. You may think that the regulations around the project are quite confusing at the beginning but with proper direction they can be made easy.

Here at Smart Conservatory Solutions, conservatory roof replacements are not a new concept to us. We are here to assist you every step of the way from the initial preparation to the installation of the project in a manner that is legal, of a high standard and with minimum of stress to yourself.

Do not allow those qualms stop you from improving your house. With the right plan and professional help, you will be able to navigate the permissions process with ease and look forward to being able to enjoy you newly transformed conservatory.