Do you need planning permission or Building Regulations for a tiled conservatory roof?

(This post is accurate for the UK at the time of writhing in April 2026)

In most cases, you do not need planning permission to replace a conservatory roof with tiles. The work typically falls under permitted development rights.

However, Building Regulations approval is always required. Replacing a translucent roof with a solid tiled system changes the structure from a temporary conservatory to a permanent extension, which must meet current building standards.

At Roof2Room, all installations are designed and built to meet Building Regulations. During your quotation, you will be given the option to include full Building Control sign off and a Completion Certificate. Some customers choose to include this, others prefer not to. The decision is made at the point of order, so there is no uncertainty about what is included.

This guide explains the rules clearly, including when planning permission applies, how Building Control works, and what your options are.

The short answer: planning vs Building Regulations

Most homeowners are not given a clear explanation of the difference.

Planning permission relates to how your property looks from the outside. It considers visual impact, neighbours, and protected areas. This is handled by your local council’s planning department.

Building Regulations relate to how the work is built. They ensure the structure is safe, energy efficient, and compliant with current standards. This is handled by Building Control, either through your local authority or an approved inspector.

These are separate requirements. You may need one, both, or neither depending on the project.

For a tiled conservatory roof replacement:

Why Building Regulations apply to tiled conservatory roofs

Before 2010, installing a solid roof on a conservatory was not permitted. Conservatories had to remain mostly glazed to stay exempt from Building Regulations.

The rules changed, but with a condition. Any solid roof installation must now comply with Building Regulations.

This is due to what is commonly referred to as the 75 percent rule. A conservatory was only exempt if:

• Floor area was under 30m²
• At least 50 percent of the walls were glazed
• At least 75 percent of the roof was translucent
• It was separated from the house by external grade doors
• It had its own independent heating

Once you install a solid tiled roof, the structure no longer meets these criteria. It becomes an extension and must comply with Building Regulations.

This is not optional. Any compliant system must be designed to meet these standards.

What Building Regulations cover

A compliant tiled conservatory roof must meet requirements across several areas:

Structure (Part A)
The existing structure must safely support the new roof load. Load must be transferred correctly to the main building, not just the existing frames.

Ventilation (Part F)
Adequate airflow must be provided to prevent condensation and moisture build up.

Energy efficiency (Part L, updated 2025 to 2026)
The roof must meet current insulation standards. Typical requirement is 0.18 W/m²K. Systems such as Insullite achieve around 0.15 W/m²K.

Fire safety (Part B)
If the conservatory is close to a boundary, materials must meet fire resistance standards.

Building Control approval and your options

There are two ways to obtain Building Regulations approval:

• Local Authority Building Control
• Approved Inspectors such as MFA, Ball and Berry, or JHAI

At Roof2Room, we use MFA Building Control. The Insullite system is Type Approved, meaning the system itself has already been assessed against Building Regulations. This simplifies and speeds up the approval process.

When you request a quote, you will be given a clear option:

• Include full Building Control approval and receive a Completion Certificate
• Proceed without the certification service

Both options are explained upfront so you can make an informed decision based on your priorities and future plans.

If you choose to include Building Control, you will receive a Completion Certificate at the end of the project. This document is typically required during property sales.

When planning permission is required

Planning permission is not usually needed, but there are exceptions.

You will likely need planning permission if your property is:

• A listed building where Listed Building Consent is required for external changes
• In a conservation area or designated land where stricter rules may apply
• A flat or maisonette where permitted development rights do not apply
• Subject to an Article 4 direction where rights have been removed
• Exceeding permitted development limits such as increased height

How to check your property

• Use the Planning Portal interactive guide
• Contact your local council planning department
• Ask your installer during the survey

A Lawful Development Certificate can also be obtained for formal confirmation.

Risks of skipping Building Regulations certification

• Delays or complications when selling your property
• Requests for indemnity insurance from buyers
• Possible issues with home insurance claims
• Additional costs for retrospective approval

Regularisation is possible but often more expensive and disruptive than completing certification during the project.

The Roof2Room process

A typical project follows these steps:

Survey
Assessment of structure, measurements, and any planning considerations

Quotation
Fixed price with clear inclusion or exclusion of Building Control certification

Installation
Typically completed within 3 to 5 working days

Completion
If selected, Building Control sign off is completed and a certificate is issued

Frequently asked questions

Do I need planning permission to replace a conservatory roof with tiles

Usually no. Most standard properties fall under permitted development. Exceptions include listed buildings, flats, and certain protected areas.

Do I need Building Regulations approval

Yes. A solid tiled roof changes the structure classification and must comply with Building Regulations.

Does Roof2Room include Building Control

It is offered as part of the quotation. You can choose whether to include full certification and receive a Completion Certificate.

How much does Building Control cost

Typically between £400 and £800 depending on the project. This is clearly itemised in your quote.

What if I am in a conservation area

You may still be able to proceed under permitted development, but confirmation with your council is recommended.

What if my original conservatory was exempt

That is common. The new roof installation is treated as new work and must meet current Building Regulations if certification is chosen.