Work to the roof of a house (e.g. re-roofing) that does not change its external appearance will usually not require an application planning permission as it is classed as ‘permitted development’. There are certain conditions and limits that need to be met to qualify for permitted development rights.

Read more about permitted development for work to a roof.

A new roof must comply with building regulations to ensure it is structurally safe, energy efficient and properly ventilated.

Permitted development rights allow certain types of work to be carried out without the need to apply for planning permission. It typically covers things like small extensions, loft conversions and outbuildings, provided they meet specific size and location limits. These rights can vary or be removed in areas like conservation zones and by Article 4’s, so it’s best to check before proceeding.  

Read about permitted development and Article 4 directions on Planning Portal

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Inserting new windows which look similar to those previously used in the house will often not require planning permission. Some rules apply to new additions, for example if they are on an upper-floor side elevation they must be obscure glazed and non-opening or more than 1.7 metres above the floor.

Installing a new bay window on the front elevation would require planning permission as it is classed as a forward extension.

If you live in a listed building or conservation area you should contact your local planning authority.

 Any new openings will have to comply with building regulations, this may impact thermal heat loss, structure, ventilation and fire safety.

You can use a member of a competent person scheme to complete any work, this will ensure that the work is completed in-line with regulations.

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Rendering or cladding the exterior walls of your house may fall under permitted development rights, meaning an application for planning permission is not required provided you meet certain limits and requirements set out in legislation.

If you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any significant works whether internal or external.

If you live in a Conservation Area, a National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or the Broads, you will need to apply for planning permission before cladding the outside of your house with stone, artificial stone, pebble dash, render, timber, plastic or tiles.

Outside these areas, cladding may be carried out without having to first apply for planning permission provided the materials are of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the house.

If the new materials will not have a similar appearance to those previously used you will be required to submit an application for planning permission.

Read more about change to external walls on our common project.

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Replacing existing render

Replacing existing render on the outside of your house with render of a similar appearance will not require planning permission as it is considered permitted development.

If you are changing the external appearance of the house or in a protected area such as a conservation area, then planning permission will be required. The external appearance of the house is likely to be changed when you are changing the type or colour of the render.

If the building is listed, then you will need listed building consent.

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You don't actually need to own land or property to apply for planning permission for it. This means you can apply for permission before deciding whether or not to buy a piece of land.

The following people must be informed about a planning application relating to land or buildings that they have an interest in:

• The owner or all the part-owner/s (if you are not the full owner)
• Any leaseholders with at least seven years' lease remaining
• Any agricultural tenants.

You can contact your local planning authority for pre-application advice or book an appointment with our Planning Guidance Service.

Find out more about pre-application advice.