Do I Need Building Regulations to Change the Roof on My Conservatory?
Can I Replace My Conservatory Roof Without Building Regulations?
In most cases, if your conservatory roof is translucent (glass or polycarbonate), it does not require Building Regulations approval. However, if you are replacing it with a solid or tiled roof, then Building Regulations approval is mandatory.
This is because a solid conservatory roof is classified as a permanent fixture, affecting the structural integrity, thermal efficiency, and safety of the building. Planners need to ensure your existing conservatory structure can support the weight of a solid roof.
🔗 Looking for a new roof? Explore our options:
What are Building Regulations?
These are codes that set specific criteria for the design and construction of all different types of buildings, including conservatories. When you make a building regulations application to your local planning authority you are seeking to have the details of your development checked and approved for compliance with the standards of construction. As far as conservatory roofs go, Building Regulations approval is not needed if the roof is translucent, i.e. glass. However, if the roof is a solid one then it does need to follow Building Regulations because it is classified as a permanent fixture. 
What Are My Options for a Building Regulations-Compliant Roof?
If you’re looking to replace your conservatory roof legally and safely, these are your best options:
1. Tiled Conservatory Roofs (Requires Building Regs)
✔ Offers better insulation than glass or polycarbonate.
✔ Turns your conservatory into a year-round living space.
✔ Requires structural assessment to ensure your conservatory can support the added weight.
🔗 Learn more about Tiled Conservatory Roofs
2. Glass Conservatory Roofs (No Building Regs Needed)
✔ Retains a bright and airy feel.
✔ Modern solar-controlled glass improves insulation.
✔ No need for Building Regulations approval if replacing an existing glass roof.
🔗 Discover Glass Conservatory Roofs
3. Lantern Roofs (For Extensions & Orangeries)
✔ Creates more natural light for open-plan living.
✔ Stylish, modern, and ideal for kitchen or dining extensions.
✔ Requires Building Regulations approval if replacing an old structure.
What Happens If I Ignore Building Regulations?
Replacing a conservatory roof without Building Regulations approval could cause:
❌ Structural failure – if your conservatory was not built to hold a heavier solid roof, it may weaken over time.
❌ Insurance issues – some home insurance policies won’t cover unauthorised modifications.
❌ Resale problems – without a Building Regulations certificate, you could struggle to sell your home.
To avoid these issues, use a certified roofing system like our Supalite Tiled Roofs, which meets all UK Building Regulations and is pre-approved by JHAI (Corporate Approved Inspectors).
I want a solid roof – what do I do now?
Simply put, you need a Building Regs certificate, and there are two ways to get it. The first is to have the roof built and inspected by building. That does run risks, however, in that you may not have complied with regulations. The second option involves an approved inspector of building control approving a roofing system in line with Building Regulations. At Renaissance Conservatories, we use the highly-rated Supalite system which has JHAI Approval. This is a Corporate Approved Inspector licenced by the Construction Industry Council to give a certified Building Regulations Approval as an alternative to Local Authority Building Standards whilst maintaining the same high standards.
Why does my solid roof need Building Regulations anyway?
Because it’s a structural issue. Planners want to know whether the existing conservatory structure could support the new roof – understandable, especially if the conservatory previously had a glass roof and therefore wasn’t designed to support a tiled roof. 
I was wondering about a wrap-over roof…
If you think you can build a solid roof over an old roof to dodge Building Regulations, think again! Doing this will let you off the hook in terms of the regulations, but it may very well lead to a dangerous situation in your conservatory. Wrap-over or clad-over roofs add a lot of weight to an existing roof and are prone to collapsing. Hardly worth it, for the miniscule amount of money you might save by going down this route. Besides, such roof systems rarely meet Building Regs approval when tested due to poor thermal value and structural integrity.
Are there any other benefits to having a roof replaced?
There are many. A replacement roof will look great, add value to your home, make the room more comfortable in terms of thermal efficiency and save you money. Lots of great reasons to think about this, while leaving the details (including Building Regs approval) to the experts. For more details about Renaissance Conservatories contact us on our website or call 01626 333 393.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will upgrading my conservatory roof affect planning permission requirements?
Yes, upgrading your conservatory roof may affect planning permission requirements, especially if the changes alter the structure or size of the conservatory.
How do I check if my conservatory roof meets current building regulations?
You can check if your conservatory roof meets current building regulations by consulting your local building authority or reviewing the official building regulations documentation relevant to your area.
Is it necessary to get an inspection after changing my conservatory roof?
Yes, it is generally necessary to get an inspection after changing your conservatory roof to ensure that the work complies with building regulations and safety standards.
What documents should I provide for building regs when installing a new conservatory roof?
You should provide architectural plans, structural calculations, and any relevant certificates from contractors, along with a completed application form for building regulations approval.
Are there any exemptions from building regulations for conservatory roofs?
Yes, there are exemptions from building regulations for certain conservatory roofs, particularly if the conservatory is less than 30 square meters and is not used as a habitable space.
How have conservatory roof building regulations changed for 2025?
Building regulations for conservatory roofs are expected to become more stringent in 2025, focusing on energy efficiency and structural integrity, so it’s important to stay updated on these changes.
Can I get advice on building regs for a conservatory roof during a home renovation?
Yes, you can get advice on building regulations for a conservatory roof during a home renovation by consulting with your local building authority or a professional contractor who specializes in conservatories.
What are the main building regulations to consider for a new conservatory roof?
The main building regulations to consider include structural integrity, thermal performance, and safety standards. Ensuring that the roof can support its own weight and withstand environmental factors is crucial. Additionally, compliance with energy efficiency regulations is necessary to maintain adequate insulation and minimize heat loss.
Are there different building regulations for tiled versus solid conservatory roofs?
Yes, there are different building regulations for tiled and solid conservatory roofs. Tiled roofs often require adherence to specific pitch and drainage guidelines, while solid roofs may need to meet stricter thermal insulation requirements. It’s important to check local regulations as they may vary depending on the design and materials used.
Are you interested in improving your home? Get in touch with Renaissance Conservatories, your local conservatory specialists today!
Get a FREE quote today
