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Replacing Windows In A Flat? Here’s Some Things To Be Aware Of
When you live in a flat that you own or rent an apartment and you need replacement windows, please DO NOT go ahead with a new window installation without checking that you have permission to do so first. Going ahead regardless could be a very costly mistake and see you forced into reversing the process.
So that this doesn’t transpire, your first job should be to get in contact with the planning department at your local authority to obtain planning permission – it’s not just those who live in a conservation area that need to do this! This is because your flat will not have been designated with Permitted Development Rights as councils are keen to ensure any replacement windows fitted resemble the original window design.
Councils are often very specific about the kind of replacement windows that should be installed in flats. They won’t be shy to hand you a Planning Enforcement Notice if they feel that any windows you have had fitted without planning permission don’t meet their expectations. If they do, you are free to try and obtain retrospective planning permission, but this won’t necessarily be given and will incur further costs.
Then it is the responsibility of the flat owner to obtain written permission from the freeholder and/or Management Company. Tenants wanting to replace their windows need planning permission, landlord approval and permission from the Management Company.
Anyone living in an apartment block located in a Conservation Area or one that has been served an “Article 4” notice must get what is in effect a double planning permission. The first one is to make sure the windows satisfy “Article 4” and the second is for the replacement window itself.
Our best piece of advice for anyone currently thinking about buying or renting a flat is to go for one that already has thermally efficient, maintenance-free windows fitted as then you won’t have to worry about anything we have mentioned, saving you the headache.
To discuss this topic in more detail with an experienced company, request a callback from Hazlemere.
Want to speak with an Advisor? Give us a call on 08000 825 825
Our friendly team will be pleased to help with any questions you may have.