Retrofit Planning Considerations

Retrofit Planning Considerations

Implementing retrofit measures involves consideration of planning permission and Building Regulations approval. Some changes may fall under 'Permitted Development Rights,' allowing alterations without planning permission.

Government regulations include a number of permitted developments which do not require permission as long as the government’s requirements are met. If your proposed planning application is not permitted development and requires external works to your property, it is likely that you will need to submit a planning application. 

The Planning Portal website provides a useful ‘Interactive House’ which will guide you through the planning and building rules for various house types, and provides individual mini guides for conservatories, extensions, loft conversions, outbuildings and porches.

Examples of exterior works may include external wall insulation, new windows, solar panels and air source heat pumps. Generally, internal alterations to properties will not require planning permission, unless proposals relate to listed buildings. More information can be found on our heritage and conservation pages.

Make sure to check whether you need planning permission and Building Regulations approval. Installers, particularly those in competent person schemes, often manage and support the approval process and can certify the work. 

Before you apply for planning permission, you can choose to pay for pre-application advice. Paying for pre-application advice is optional. You can submit a planning application without having it. More information can be found on our pre-application advice page.