Is planning permission required for a Vellux window?
Question:We are having a Vellux window fitted into our roof in the next couple of weeks. Several years ago, the previous owners of our house had the loft converted into two bedrooms and a bathroom. For some reason, they didn't put a window in the bathroom and instead fitted an extractor fan. I really hate it as I would much rather have a real window.
My builder says that as the loft has already been converted, I don't need planning permission just to fit a window. The bathroom is at the back of the house and the house isn't listed, although we live in a conservation area. The next door neighbours have also had their loft converted but did have a vellux window fitted, so there is precedent.
Grateful for any advice as to whether I should be concerned about getting planning permission.
Thanks.
Answers:
You will not require permission, provided the roof light does not project beyond the plane of any existing roof slope by more than 150 mm (see Illustration 5). unless you have a listed building.
you would need to follow building regulations, normally by giving the council notice to inspect. This will cost about £105 for a velux window. This is differnt to outline permission as quoted above.
If your builder doesn't want to do this, i'd say it was time to find another builder.
Your builder is wrong. The council can, in theory, force you to either remove the loft conversion or apply for retrospective planning permission. They would only likely do this if there were objections...best keep on the good side of your neighbours.
Sounds like you've had your house just a couple of years. As with any building changes you dont have permissinofor its worth getting insurance that covers the cost of any remidial work that the council insist on. Unfortulnatly you are too late, you can onyl do this as you take over the freehold.
You will not require permission, your builder is correct, If your still unsure just call your local councils planning office and they will confirm this over the phone.
As the proposed roof light is on the rear slope you should not be required to obtain PP for its installation.
As you say, a precedent has been set by your neighbour. I assume your bedrooms have roof lights already (?).
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