Is your conservatory too cold in winter and too hot in summer? Maybe you’ve been thinking about investing in a conservatory roof replacement to make it a usable living space year round. This is a common home improvement choice for homeowners across the North West who want to transform their conservatory into a space they can enjoy in all seasons.
At Direct Roofing & Building, we’re often asked if you need planning permission to change a conservatory roof. The answer is usually no, but there are some important details to understand before you get started:
When You Don’t Need Planning Permission
In most situations, changing your existing conservatory roof, whether it’s glass or polycarbonate, to a solid tiled roof is considered permitted development. That means you can usually make the change without applying for planning permission, as long as you follow certain rules.
These permitted development rights give homeowners the freedom to make certain changes without going through a full planning process. The rules changed in 2010, removing the old requirement that at least 75 percent of the roof had to be translucent, which made it easier to fit a solid roof without permission.
When You Might Need Planning Permission
Even with these relaxed rules, there are still cases where you might need permission. If your property is a listed building, is in a conservation area, a national park, or an area of outstanding natural beauty, you could face stricter regulations.
Some councils could also impose what’s called an Article 4 direction, which removes certain permitted development rights. In these cases, even small changes to your home, including replacing an existing conservatory roof, may need official approval.
At Direct Roofing & Building, we always recommend checking with your local council or the Planning Portal before you begin. Our team will also advise you during your free survey.
Building Regulations Explained
Planning permission and building regulations are not the same thing. Even if you don’t need planning permission to change your conservatory roof, you may still need building regulation approval. This is because a solid tiled roof is much heavier than glass or polycarbonate, so your conservatory frame needs to be strong enough to support it. It also changes how the space works for insulation, ventilation, and fire safety.
In the past, some conservatories with lightweight glazed roofs were exempt from building regulations if they were small, separated from the house by external doors, and had their own heating system. Once you replace that roof with a solid structure, those exemptions usually no longer apply. Most councils treat a tiled roof conservatory as a permanent extension, which means building regulations will almost always be required.
Getting approval is important not just for safety, but also for peace of mind when selling your home. Buyers’ solicitors often ask for a building regulation certificate. Without it, you may face delays, extra insurance costs, or even lose a buyer.
Why a Solid Roof is Worth Considering
Comfort and energy efficiency are two of the biggest reasons homeowners choose to replace their conservatory roof. A poorly insulated roof can make your conservatory unbearably hot in summer and freezing cold in winter. By upgrading to a solid tiled roof with proper insulation, you can create a space that feels like a true extension of your home.
You’ll notice a big difference in energy efficiency, meaning less money spent on heating in winter and cooling in summer. Noise reduction is another bonus, making the space quieter during heavy rain or windy weather.
Direct Roofing & Building has over 40 years of experience fitting tiled conservatory roofs that are designed to withstand the harsh UK climate. We offer a 40 year guarantee on our work, giving you confidence in both the quality and durability of your new roof.
Another benefit is the flexibility in design. A solid conservatory roof can be finished with roof windows such as Velux to allow natural light in while still offering insulation. You can also choose styles and tiles that match your existing roof so it ties in with the rest of your home. This can improve the appearance of your home from the outside and may even add value if done well!
Make Your Conservatory Comfortable Year Round
If you’re planning to replace your conservatory roof, the first step is simple: check with your local council or the Planning Portal to confirm whether planning permission applies to your property. In most cases, it won’t, but it’s always best to be sure!
From there, choosing the right installer makes all the difference. At Direct Roofing & Building, we’ve been helping North West homeowners for over 40 years, and we know exactly what’s needed to meet building regulations and keep the process stress free.
Most importantly, we’ll help you turn your conservatory into a room you can actually enjoy. Whether you want a cosy home office, a bright dining area, or simply a warm and comfortable space to relax, our team can make it happen. We work across the North West in places such as Manchester, Liverpool, Wigan and Chorley, as well as many other nearby towns. You can find the full list on our areas we cover page. Contact Direct Roofing & Building today to book your free home survey and start enjoying your conservatory all year round!
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