You do not usually need to apply for planning permission for:

• repairs,  maintenance, and minor improvements, such as repainting window and door frames
• insertion of new windows and doors that are of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the house (note - a new bay window will be treated as an extension and may require permission)
• installation of internal secondary glazing.

New roof lights or skylights will not normally require an application for planning permission as long as certain conditions are met.

Occasionally, you may need to apply for planning permission for some of these works because your council has made an Article 4 Direction to withdraw permitted development rights. If you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any significant works - internal or external and you should contact your local planning authority before starting work.

Read more about listed building consent

The permitted development allowances described here apply to houses and not to flats and maisonettes.

If you replace a window(s) in your home, or any other type of building, the building regulations:

- will normally apply if you are replacing the whole of the fixed frame and opening parts or creating new openings for windows or doors

- will not normally apply if the work amounts to no more than, for example, replacing broken glass, rotten sashes or rotten sections of the main frame members.

Replacement of external doors with 50 percent glazing or more will require approval.

For replacement windows and glazed doors, if the contractor carrying out the work is registered with one of the relevant Competent Person Schemes, then you would not need to make an application.

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New external windows and doors must meetcertain heat loss standards to satisfy building regulations.