My husband and I are in the process of buying a first floor flat in a town centre conservation area. The current sash windows are falling apart and a friend has said we may need planning permission to replace them.

Do we need planning permission? And what about if we replace them and they look the same afterwards? what if we want to change them?

Hello Veronica

You might be interested to read our latest guide about using the online planning portal.

The advice there says:

Planning permission is not normally required for repairing, fitting or replacing doors and windows (including double glazing).

However, if the building is listed or is in a conservation area (or other designated area) you should consult with your local planning authority.

Also, if you are a leaseholder, you may first need to get permission from your landlord or management company.

I would contact your local council for a definite answer.

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Hi there,

You generally don't need planning permission to replace old windows. If you want to replace your windows with something which is exactly the same, you do not need to get permission from anyone. But it has to be exactly the same. In other words, if you've got single glazed windows in a wooden frame, you'll be OK if you replace it with single glazed windows in a wooden frame of exactly the same dimensions. And double glazing is generally encouraged so you don't need to get permission for that if the window shapes aren't changing.

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