At Point Roofing & Guttering, we understand how confusing planning rules can feel. A common question that we get asked a lot is if planning permission is required when doing a re-roof or roofing works on Norwich homes. It is not a simple answer as it depends on your type of roof and the changes you are looking to have done. In this article we explain when planning permission would be required for re-roofs and roofing works and also provide some real life examples to help you better understand. If you need help or want a quote then feel free to check out the rest of our website or give us a call on 01603 905295.
What Is Planning Permission?
Planning permission is basically when your local council gives you the go ahead to make changes to your home. Planning permission is in place to ensure neighbourhoods remain safe and also protect the look of the area. Building and roofing work needs to meet certain building regulations to ensure quality work is being carried out in the local area. If planning permission is needed and work is carried out anyway without permission then the council can give out fines or even request the work to be redone.
But does planning permission apply to every tiny job? Not always! That’s where “permitted development rights” come in. At Point Roofing & Guttering, we always check these rules for our customers and let you know what’s what.
Does Re-Roofing Fall Under Permitted Development Rights?
Permitted development rights give homeowners the ability to make many improvements, sometimes even big ones without having to submit a planning application. Many routine roofing jobs fall within these rights, but it’s not a free-for-all! There are specific conditions.
Here’s what you should think about:
- How big are the changes?
Are you just swapping out broken tiles, or are you changing the whole shape of your roof? The bigger the change, the more likely you’ll need permission.
- Where is your property?
Is your house in a conservation area, national park, or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty? These are protected spots, and even small changes might need special approval.
- What about building regulations?
Planning permission may not be required for the roofing works you need but the work still needs to meet building regulations to ensure the work is carried out in a safely manner, high quality workmanship and energy efficient. Here at Point Roofing & Guttering we pride ourselves on the quality of our work and always work to building regulations.
For example:
Let’s say you’re replacing tiles on a pitched roof and not changing its height or appearance. In most cases, you won’t need planning permission. But if you’re adding a big dormer window to give yourself extra space, you might well need approval before you start. Got a project in mind and not sure? Our team at Point Roofing & Guttering is always happy to talk through your plans.
Key Times When Planning Permission IS Needed
Let’s look at some common roofing scenarios and when you’ll need to get planning approval:
1. Raising the Height of Your Roof
Thinking about adding headroom or another storey? If the answer is yes, you’ll almost certainly need planning permission. This sort of change really affects how your home looks and impacts the neighbours. We always recommend checking with your local authority before you make big alterations.
2. Fitting Roof Lights or Skylights
Good news: adding roof lights or skylights is often fine under permitted development if:
- They don’t stick out more than 150mm from the roof.
- They’re not higher than the very top of the roof.
- Side windows are obscure glazed, and any opening is at least 1.7 metres above floor level.
Anything outside these limits? You’ll need to ask for planning permission. The experts at Point Roofing & Guttering can help you make sure your roof lights tick all the right boxes.
3. Changing a Flat Roof to a Pitched Roof
If you plan to change a flat roof into a pitched roof then this could be classed as a major alteration. A new structure would need to be built and tiles installed that are heavier. Changing an old flat roof to new a pitched roof can give your home an amazing new look but you will need to check if planning permission is required.
4. Adding Dormer Windows
Want more space upstairs? Dormers are a popular choice, and you can often add them under permitted development if:
- For terraced houses: the extra roof volume is no more than 40 cubic metres.
- For detached or semi-detached: it stays under 50 cubic metres.
- The dormer isn’t on the main front (the bit facing the street).
Anything above this? Or if you’re unsure? Give Point Roofing & Guttering a call, we’ll walk you through it or handle applications for you.
5. Roofing Work in Conservation Areas
If your home is in a conservation area or is a listed building, the rules get stricter. Sometimes you might need approval just for replacing old tiles. Local councils keep a close eye on changes in these areas to preserve their character. Not sure if you’re affected? We’re experienced in handling work in listed and protected properties, use our website contact form to get in touch.
When Does Roofing Work NOT Need Planning Permission?
Here are some roofing jobs that usually don’t need any permission:
- Replacing damaged tiles or slates
Keeping the same materials? This is classed as maintenance.
- Cleaning or doing minor repairs
Small fixes and cleaning don’t need special approval.
- Roofing as part of a previously approved extension
If you already got permission for an extension, you’re covered for the roof part as long as you stick to the plans.
Need clarity? The Point Roofing & Guttering team is only a phone call or message away.
What About Building Regulations?
Even if you avoid the paperwork for planning permission, building regulations still matter. They exist to make sure your roof is safe, strong, and energy efficient.
What the council or an inspector will look at:
- Insulation
Your roof has to meet standards for keeping heat in.
- Structure
Any big changes (like a new dormer) have to be properly supported.
- Fire safety
Some materials simply aren’t allowed due to fire risk.
If something’s not right, you could be fined, or be told to put it right at your own expense. We don’t take chances at Point Roofing & Guttering, every project meets rules from day one.
How Can You Check If You Need Planning Permission?
Here’s a step-by-step:
- Check with your local council
Try the Planning Portal for information specific to your postcode.
- Read up on permitted development
The government website has full details on what you can and can’t do.
- Ask a professional
An architect or surveyor can advise, or you can drop us a quick note via our enquiry form. We’re happy to help!
Why Take the Risk?
It might be tempting to “wing it” and skip permission for what feels like a small job. But if your council finds out, possibly after a neighbour’s complaint, you could be fined or made to undo the changes. The cost and hassle are nearly always much higher than just making sure you’ve got permission to begin with.
Real Example:
We once heard from a homeowner in Kent who built a large dormer without permission. After a complaint, the council forced them to remove it, leaving them with a hefty bill and a lot of stress. Save yourself the worry and let Point Roofing & Guttering check things first.
Important Questions Before You Begin
- Will this job change my home’s appearance?
- Am I in a conservation area or similar?
- Does my plan fit permitted development rules?
- Are big structural changes involved?
- Do building regulations apply?
Still not sure? You don’t have to figure it all out alone, the Point Roofing & Guttering team is always happy to talk it through.
Tips for Staying Compliant
- Keep your paperwork tidy
File away approvals, building inspector notes, and all contracts.
- Let your neighbours know
It’s a good idea to explain any changes that might affect their view or the area’s look.
- Work with people who know the rules
Pick contractors like us! Who understand both planning and building regs. We pride ourselves on getting all the details right from the start.
Our Advice
Taking on work to your roof should be exciting, not filled with bureaucratic headaches. While small jobs often don’t need planning permission, bigger changes probably will. Always check with your council and make sure your work meets building regulations. If you’re in doubt, just ask, getting expert advice is easier (and usually cheaper) than fixing problems later.
Point Roofing & Guttering is here for homeowners all over Norwich and Norfolk. Whether you’re planning big changes or need a quick repair, you can count on honesty, transparency, and top-quality workmanship.
