Do you need planning permission to install a Velux window?

Can you put Velux windows in without planning permission?

Most window installations are classed as a permitted development and don’t need planning permission.

You will only need planning permission for a Velux window installation if any of the following apply: 

• The roof window protrudes 150mm above the existing roof plane
• The window exceeds the highest point of the existing roof
• A side-facing roof window is not made with obscure privacy glazing
• A side-facing window is installed less than 1.7m above the room’s floor and can be opened
• You live in a listed property or conservation area

Due to their slim and sleek design, Velux windows can be installed without planning permission. However, skylights and rooflights built by other manufacturers may not fit within the necessary size limits.

Planning permission will likely be needed if you want to add a Velux window to a listed property. We recommend speaking to your Local Planning Authority before making any modifications to listed properties or buildings in a conservation area.

Why is planning permission needed?

There are several home improvement projects that can be completed without planning permission. When a project requires planning permission approval, it is because the council needs to be sure of the following:

• The work complies with current building regulations
• The new installation will not negatively impact the surrounding environment
• The property modifications will not impact the privacy of neighbours

When applying for planning permission for a Velux window installation, the planning authority will consider the following:

• Window size
• Location of the window
• Impact on privacy

Do I need planning permission to install a window?

Most Velux window installations don’t need planning permission – but what about other window styles?

Planning permission isn’t needed if you replace windows with frames of a similar size and style.

For example, you can upgrade your single glazed casement windows to double glazed ones without contacting your local council. However, planning permission may be needed if you want to swap sash windows to a large bay window installation.

The following installations require planning permission:

• Fitting an opening upper floor side-facing window less than 1.7 metres from the ground
• Fitting an upper floor side-facing window that is not fitted with obscure privacy glazing
• Adding bay windows to the front of a property
• Replacing the windows in a listed building (even when installing new frames of a similar size and style)
• Changing the windows of a home in a conservation area

Building regulations for Velux windows

While not all Velux window installations need planning permission, current building regulations must always be adhered to. Building regulations are put in place to make sure all building work meets high safety and energy standards.

Velux windows installed in the UK must comply with building regulations to make sure they meet the appropriate standards for the following:

• Safety
• Energy efficiency
• Ventilation
• Fire safety
• Escape route

Hire a registered Velux installer or a professional roofer to make sure your installation complies with current building regulations.

Planning permission and installation costs

Most Velux window installations don’t need planning permission. However, if your circumstances require it, you will have to pay a fee.

You will need to apply for planning permission through your local council’s planning authority. The fee you must pay will depend on your location and the type of application you are submitting.

The price of a full planning permission application for a single dwelling house or flat is £258 in England and £300 in Scotland,

Take a look at our planning permission cost guide to learn more about the different types of planning permissions and current costs.

When planning permission isn’t needed, a Velux window installation has an average cost of £1,250. The window size and style will determine the installation fee.

FAQs

Can you put a Velux window on any roof?

Velux windows can be installed on the majority of domestic property roofs. For a safe installation, the roof must be strong enough to support the weight of the window.

Velux windows can be installed on flat roofs and roofs with a pitch up to 90 degrees. However, precautions will need to be taken and the correct flashing kit will be needed to make sure the window is secure, watertight and correctly sealed.

We recommend speaking to a Velux installer to make sure this type of installation is suitable for your property.

Can you install Velux windows without scaffolding?

Scaffolding typically isn’t needed when installing a Velux window. The majority of roof windows can be installed from the inside of your home.

However, your installer may need scaffolding to safely perform any post-installation checks.

Do roofers fit skylights?

Roofers and window fitters can install skylights and Velux windows. Always make sure the tradesperson you are hiring has the relevant skills and experience.

Your skylight installer will also need the correct flashing kit to fit your roof window in place securely.

Key takeaways

• Planning permission isn’t needed for the majority of Velux window installations
• Planning permission may be needed if you live in a listed property or conservation area
• Velux windows that are side facing without privacy glass or installed below 1.7m from the floor will require planning permission
• Planning permission will be needed if a Velux window protrudes more than 150mm and is higher than the highest part of the property’s roof
• All Velux window installations must adhere to current building regulations
• It costs an average of £1,250 to install a Velux window

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