Replacing windows & doors in a listed building or conservation area
If you live in a listed building or conservation area, it’s important to understand the rules and constraints you may face when choosing to replace the existing windows and doors.
What is a listed building and how do I know if my property is listed?
Listed buildings are buildings of special architectural or historic interest with legal protections. To check if your property is listed, you can search on databases such as the British Listed Buildings or National Heritage List for England.
What is a conservation area and how do I know if my property is in one?
A conservation area is an area of land that local authorities want to protect due to architectural, historic or natural importance. There are around 10,000 conservation areas across England, with London having over 1,000 conservation areas across its boroughs.
To find out if you live in a conservation area, you can contact your local planning authority.
What is Article 4 Direction?
Article 4 Direction removes permitted development rights and gives local authorities more planning control in conservation areas. Article 4 Direction typically focuses on features that are visible from public areas. You can check with your local planning office if Article 4 Direction applies to your property.
Understanding the rules for replacing windows in a listed building or conservation area
Local authorities assess each case on an individual basis and therefore it is strongly recommended to initially contact your local planning authority. If your property is a listed building, you will need to obtain ‘Listed Building Consent’ – this applies even if you are replacing like-for-like windows. If your property is not listed but lies within a conservation area, it is likely you will still need planning permission to replace your windows. In both listed buildings and conservation areas, councils usually prefer replacement windows to match the originals as closely as possible. Because of this, it is unlikely you will be able to put in uPVC or aluminium windows. Timber windows and doors are the preferred material by planning authorities.
How we can help
When planning permission is being applied for, P&P Glass can provide detailed specifications and section drawings, detailing all the information required for the proposed replacement windows. P&P Glass have extensive experience working on properties of all ages within conservation areas, including listed properties, all over Surrey and London including Guildford, Esher, Reigate and Godalming.
Once permission has been received, the Timber Windows Listed Collection can closely replicate the windows that would have originally been installed. Often, local authorities state that the specification of glazing plays a crucial role in permission being given. The Listed Collection provides glazing options to suit various requirements. Both the 4mm single glazed panes and the ultra slim 14mm double glazed units are hand finished with traditional style putty. The single glazed option is available with a 22mm through glazing bar, and the 14mm double glazed unit is available with a 24mm through glazing bar, all features designed for the most strict planning areas. The use of engineered timber means the windows will not warp or twist, alongside modern glazing, this means your property will be better insulated as well as having improved sound insulation.
Our expert sales consultants will be able to advise you when it comes to choosing the most suitable windows and doors for your property. We want to help you make the best decision whilst also meeting conditions set out by the planning authority.