What to Look for When Hiring a Roofer?
When it comes to changing your property roof, it can provide a lot of questions, as well as rules and regulations that you will need to adhere to. While a roof replacement, repair or change can be straightforward, and easy installation, it’s still important that you make sure that you have the correct permissions and that you are following the right legislation.
The answer to whether you need planning permission for work on your roof will depend on several factors, including the type of work you are planning to carry out, the size and location of your property, and the local planning regulations in your area.
In general, if you are only carrying out minor repairs or maintenance work on your roof, you are unlikely to require planning permission. However, if you are planning to make significant changes to your roof, such as adding a dormer or a roof terrace, you may need to obtain planning permission from your local authority.
It’s important to check with your local planning authority to confirm whether or not planning permission is required for the work you have in mind. You can also consult with a professional roofing contractor who may be able to advise you on the planning requirements for your specific project.

What is the Difference Between Planning Permission and Building Regulations?
Planning permission and building regulations are two different types of permission that you may need to obtain before carrying out construction work to your roof.
Planning permission is a type of permission that you need to get from your local authority before you start any work that could affect the appearance or use of your property or the surrounding area. Planning permission is concerned with the impact of your proposed development on the wider environment and takes into account factors such as the design and appearance of the building, its impact on traffic and parking, and the potential impact on neighboring properties.
Building regulations, on the other hand, are a set of minimum standards that you need to meet when carrying out construction work, regardless of whether or not you need planning permission. Building regulations are concerned with the safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency of the building, as well as other technical aspects such as ventilation, insulation, and fire safety. Building regulations apply to all new construction work, as well as many types of renovation and repair work.
In summary, planning permission is concerned with the impact of the construction work on the wider environment, while building regulations are concerned with the technical standards of the construction work itself.
Building Regulations and your New Roof
If you are planning to install a new roof on your property, you will need to comply with building regulations in order to ensure that the work is carried out safely and to the required standards.
The specific building regulations that apply to your new roof will depend on several factors, including the type of roof you are installing, the size of your property, and the local building codes in your area. However, some of the key areas that are typically covered by building regulations when it comes to roof construction include:
Structural stability: Your new roof must be designed and constructed to withstand the weight of the roofing materials, as well as any loads that may be placed on it, such as snow or wind.
Fire safety: Your new roof must be designed to minimise the risk of fire, and any materials used must be rated for fire resistance.
Thermal efficiency: Your new roof must meet minimum standards for insulation and ventilation to ensure that your property is energy efficient and to prevent condensation and dampness.
Drainage: Your new roof must be designed to ensure adequate drainage, to prevent water damage and dampness.
Accessibility: If your roof is accessible, for example, if you plan to install a roof terrace, it must comply with accessibility standards to ensure that it is safe and easy to use.
It’s important to work with a professional roofing contractor who is familiar with building regulations in your area and who can ensure that your new roof is designed and constructed to the required standards. Your contractor can also advise you on the specific building regulations that apply to your project and help you navigate the permitting process.

Planning Permission and your New Roof
If you are planning to install a new roof on your property, you may need to obtain planning permission from your local planning authority, depending on the specific details of your project.
In general, you are less likely to need planning permission for a new roof if you are simply replacing like-for-like, that is, if you are replacing an existing roof with one that is of a similar design and materials. However, if you are planning to make significant changes to the roof, such as changing its shape or adding windows or dormers, you may need to obtain planning permission.
Some of the key factors that your local planning authority will consider when deciding whether to grant planning permission for a new roof include:
The size and scale of the new roof: A new roof that is significantly larger or higher than the existing one may require planning permission.
The materials used: If you are using materials that are significantly different from those used on the existing roof, such as slate instead of tiles, you may need planning permission.
The impact on the surrounding area: Your local authority will consider how the new roof will look in the context of the surrounding area, and whether it will have any impact on neighbouring properties or the wider environment.
It’s important to check with your local planning authority to confirm whether or not planning permission is required for your specific project. Your roofing contractor may also be able to advise you on the planning requirements for your new roof. Failing to obtain the necessary planning permission for your new roof can result in enforcement action, fines, and even the requirement to remove the roof.
Contact Sure Trade Roofing for your New Roof
Is it time to update your roof? Perhaps you are in need of a roofing repair? Then let our helpful and professional team at Sure Trade Roofing help. We have been providing roofing services throughout Chesterfield, Nottingham and the local area for a number of years, so regardless of your specific needs we’re confident in saying our services will benefit you. Not only will we be able to cater to your every need but provide the right guidance and knowledge to ensure that your new roof is exactly suited to you.
From flat roofing and steep roofs to roof tiles, and ridge tiles to commercial roofing services we’re the experts you can count on. We can also assist with emergency roofing requirements such as storm damage. Come and make the most of our professional roofing company and give us a call today to find out how we can help. We’re always here to help our clients, be it with sound advice or a leaking flat roof we can help.