Building regulations – are they applicable?
In general, conservatories and sunrooms on residential property are exempt from building regulations as long as the extension meets the following criteria:
- It is single storey and sited at ground level
- It is permanently separated from the remainder of the property by a door
- The floor area does not exceed 30 square metres
- At least half the area of the walls is formed of windows
- At least three-quarters of the roof consists of glazing, polycarbonate sheets or a similar translucent material
- Any radiator(s) is controllable – if fixed heating installations are proposed, they must have separate temperature and on/off controls
- The glazing meets the requirements of part N, schedule 1 covering toughened/safety glass
- There are no drainage facilities, e.g. for a sink, washing machine or WC
- Bear in mind that if your conservatory does require building regulation approval it will need glazing with the highest insulation quality such as Pilkington K glass (low E) with argon-filled units.
This guidance relates to the planning regime for England (if in doubt please consult the English Governments Planning Portal (www.planningportal.gov.uk) for further information). Policy in Scotland & Wales may differ. If in doubt contact your Local Planning Authority (www.planningportal.gov.uk).