Guides · 4 min
New windows and doors
On an ordinary house, new windows are often fine. On a special house, they are not.
The ordinary house
Replacing windows and doors on a house, in a similar style, is often allowed without planning permission. Building regulations can still apply, especially to new openings and to fire escape from a loft.
A new side window overlooking a neighbour is the one that causes planning trouble, even when the rest of the extension is fine. Frosted glass and a high sill are the usual fix.
Special cases
Listed buildings need consent for window changes. Conservation areas and Article 4 directions often control the front windows. UPVC in place of timber is a common refusal on those streets.
Check with your council. Rules change, and every house is different.
Questions
Can I block up a window?
On an ordinary house, often yes. Check it is not needed as a fire escape, and that you are not in a conservation area or a listed building.
Do roof lights count as windows?
They have their own roof rules. On a house they are often allowed if they do not project far and are not on a street-facing roof in a conservation area.
Check with your council. Rules change, and every house is different.