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Roof lights can be a fantastic way of introducing natural light to your home, without compromising on design or privacy. They are particularly popular within London and Surrey, where they are often used for modern extensions with flat roofs, as well as conservatories and orangeries.
With this popularity comes practical questions, and one of the most commonly asked is whether planning permission is required to install them in your home.
In this blog, we will look at the current Government Guidelines surrounding planning permission and roof lights, as well as some other frequently asked questions to help give you the confidence to go ahead with your new roof lights.
What are the Government Guidelines?
According to the Government Planning Portal website, you will usually need approval under the Building Regulations to check the following:
- How will the roof structure be altered?
- Can the roof carry the weight of the new roof light, or will it need strengthening?
- Is the new roof light sufficiently insulated and energy efficient?
- Is the new roof light located close to a boundary? If so, the roof light’s fire performance will need to be checked.
To apply for this approval, click here.
The Planning Portal website states that in addition to the guidance above, you may also be subject to local rules, so be sure to contact your Local Planning Authority prior to applying or starting work. The guidance is also specific to England’s planning system, so customers based in Wales or Scotland will need to check their respective alternatives.
Other FAQs
How will my new roof lights affect my roof structure?
To be able to fit your new roof lights, some structural changes will need to be made to the existing rafters or joists to make room. This may mean that new supports are required, and this is something we can discuss with you when you request your personalised quote.
Will weather proofing be required?
When they are fitted, their edges and glass always need weather proofing. But there’s no need to worry, as this is something that we can take care of during installation.
Will my roof lights provide adequate ventilation?
Unless they are being installed as part of a brand new extension, your room should already have adequate sources of ventilation which will only be improved by adding them, particularly if they are openable.
If the extension is brand new, this is something we can discuss with you, and your architect will likely have already considered it too.
Are they energy efficient?
The roof lights we use at Sheerwater are called InfiniLIGHT. They have an incredibly low U-value starting from just 1.0 W/m2K with double, triple and quadruple glazing available, meaning they are very thermally efficient, well within Government Guidelines, and will help save you money on your energy bills compared to alternatives.
InfiniLIGHT roof lights for homeowners in London and Surrey
If you are interested in adding roof lights in Surrey or further afield, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of our professional team.
You can contact us online, fill out our simple free quote form, head on down to our showroom, or simply call us on 01932 344 415 and we’ll be more than happy to assist you.
Read more about roof lights:
How can I reduce the heat loss through my roof windows?
10 tips for increasing the sunlight in your Surrey home (for all budgets)
