The roof pitch refers to the angle or steepness of your roof. It is measured by the ratio of the roof’s vertical rise to its horizontal span, also known as the run. The pitch is often expressed as x inches of rise per 12 inches of run.
The pitch of your roof serves both aesthetic and functional purposes:
- Aesthetically, the roof pitch impacts the overall look and feel of your home’s exterior. Steeper pitches often lend a more grand or stately appearance, while flatter pitches come across as more modest and utilitarian. The pitch should complement the home’s architecture and design.
- Functionally, the appropriate roof pitch promotes effective drainage so that rain, snow and debris do not accumulate. It also allows enough space for proper insulation and ventilation. Steeper roofs perform better in wet climates and areas with heavy snow, while flatter roofs withstand high winds more effectively.
Getting the roof pitch right is crucial for performance, lifespan and curb appeal.
Types of Roof Pitches
There are several common types of roof pitches:
- Flat roofs have almost no pitch, generally between 1° to 5°. The surface is nearly horizontal.
- Low-pitched roofs have a shallow slope between 5° to 10°.
- Moderately pitched roofs range from around 15° up to 30°. This is considered suitable for most homes.
- Steep-pitched roofs have a vertical rise of 6 inches or greater per horizontal foot. Pitches above 45° are very steep.
Flat roofs allow for roof spaces that can be utilized as decks or living areas. However, they do not drain well and require a highly watertight system.
Low-pitched roofs provide more interior space and attic room. But they may sag over time under heavy loads like snow.
Steep roofs quickly shed precipitation, requiring minimal insulation. But they limit useable space and can be risky for roofers.
Choosing the ideal pitch requires balancing aesthetics, functionality, climate and usage needs. Professional guidance is recommended.
UK Planning Permission Regulations
Permitted Development Rights
- Explanation of permitted development rights for homeowners – Conditions under which homeowners can make changes without planning permission
Within the UK, permitted development rights allow homeowners to make certain changes to their properties without needing to apply for planning permission. Elements constructed under permitted development must comply with government regulations on aspects like height, area size, location on site, etc.
For a house in England, homeowners can make various changes under permitted development as long as they meet requirements, including:
- Addition of dormer windows to enlarge roof space
- Installation of new rooflights/skylights
- Replacement of original windows/doors with uPVC or other types
- Changes to roof materials
Increased flexibility has been introduced regarding upward roof extensions. Up to 50 cubic meters of additional roof space can be added to a detached house under permitted development, subject to prior approval.
Restrictions and Limitations
- Overview of restrictions on roof pitch changes – Conditions that might require planning permission
However, there are key restrictions and limitations to be aware of:
- Generally, changing the shape of your roof by altering the roof pitch or adding or removing storeys requires planning permission.
- Homeowners cannot build beyond the existing walls of the house under permitted development rights. Extension of the actual building footprint needs approval.
- For semi-detached or terraced houses, roof changes must match or closely align with the roofline of adjoining buildings.
- In designated protected areas like national parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, permitted development rights are restricted. Any exterior construction likely needs permission.
- Listed buildings require approval for any changes affecting character or appearance, including roof alterations.
Where uncertainty exists, it is advisable to contact your local planning authority and confirm if planning permission is necessary for intended roof modifications impacting pitch. Non-compliant work might need to be undone.
Changing Roof Pitch: Permitted Scenarios
Minor Alterations
- Examples of minor alterations to roof pitch – Instances where homeowners can make changes without planning permission
Certain minor alterations to your existing roof pitch are normally permissible without planning approval. However, restrictions related to building/area protections and joint property impacts still apply.
Some examples of minor pitch changes that typically do not require permission include:
- Replacing existing roof tiles or materials with alternatives of similar appearance
- Installing rooflights or skylights within permitted parameters
- Adding minor features like solar panels or flues that do not affect existing roof shape or height
- Building garden structures with roofs, like sheds or greenhouses (under size limits)
- Repairing damaged roofs to original specifications and pitch
As long as you are restoring or maintaining – not redesigning – the fundamental roof structure, minor repairs and upgrades can usually be done without permission. But confirm first.
Roof Replacement
- Discussion on whether replacing a roof allows for pitch changes – Conditions and limitations associated with roof replacement
A common question is whether homeowners can change the roof pitch when undertaking full roof replacement. The answer is typically no – replacing your roof like-for-like would not enable pitch alterations under permitted development.
You usually must apply for planning permission if wanting to modify the roof pitch as part of replacement. However, there are certain exceptions:
- If raising roof height by ≤200 mm to improve insulation, this minor increase may be permissible
- When renovating combustible roofs (e.g. thatch) with non-combustible materials, reasonable pitch adjustments are sometimes allowed
- Certain exceptions apply for protected buildings with extenuating circumstances (e.g. serious risk of deterioration)
In general though, alterating roof pitch requires permission even if other roofing work is approved. The exterior shape and visual impact come under change restrictions. Always consult your local authority before work begins.
Factors Influencing Planning Permission Need
Impact on Surrounding Properties
- Considerations regarding the impact on neighboring properties – How changes might affect the overall aesthetic of the neighborhood
When evaluating an application for roof alterations, councils consider the potential impact on surrounding properties and the neighborhood aesthetic.
Changing roof height and shape can affect the continuity of building lines and local character. So consent typically depends on:
- How visible the changes would be from public areas
- Whether they align with adjacent properties and existing streetscape
- Preserving relative building scale and avoiding looming effects
- Maintaining sight lines, privacy and daylight
Even with permitted limits on enlarged roof spaces, the external impacts might outweigh technical compliance. So planners assess the holistic effects, with nearby resident feedback sought.
Getting agreement from neighbors beforehand helps applications or avoiding overlooking issues.
Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings
- Specific regulations for properties in conservation areas – Rules for listed buildings and their impact on roof pitch alterations
Special planning conditions apply for properties in designated Conservation Areas or those holding Listed Building status.
Conservation Areas – These protect areas of architectural or historic significance. Any roof changes fronting a public area require permission due to the impact on appearance and character.
Listed Buildings – These have recognition for special interest. Listed structures require approval for any roof changes affecting historical character, external appearance, or original materials/finishes. Even repairs need permission.
So extra sensitivity occurs where cumulative aesthetic impacts across protected zones come into play.
Sympathetic roof modifications that blend with existing architectural language may be considered. But special enforcement applies regarding roof conditions in these areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Change the Pitch of Any Roof Without Permission?
No, generally changing the roof pitch requires planning permission, even for property owners. This counts as an external structural change rather than routine repair and maintenance. So for any desired pitch modifications, you usually need to apply for consent based on property type, location, conservation status etc. There are some exceptions depending on extent of change e.g. matching semi-detached townhouses. But any uncertainty means checking with your local authority first.
What Documentation is Required for Pitch Changes?
If roof pitch changes require planning permission, your application must include:
- Existing and proposed roof plans outlining structure, pitch measurements, height, spatial footprint etc.
- Existing and proposed elevation plans showing finish materials, alignments with neighboring buildings, sightlines, etc.
- Supporting statement on how intended changes meet planning regulations and considerations like minimal neighborhood impact
You may also need land registry deeds, proposed work schedules, and photographs to illustrate context. Building inspectors will validate on-site too.
How to Check if My Property is in a Conservation Area?
There are a few options to check if your property falls within a Conservation Area:
- Search address on local council website, many have maps showing boundaries
- Use the GOV UK’s conservation area checking tool
- Contact your council planning department directly
Conservation Area status adds permissions complexity for visible roof alterations. So first steps are mapping your property location and conversing early with planning authorities regarding any roof change ambitions.
Is Professional Advice Necessary?
Yes, engaging qualified professionals like architects or surveyors is highly recommended when considering any roof pitch changes. They can advise accurately on property permissions, ensure technical and safety compliance for altered pitches and oversee contractors. They also package compelling applications accounting for visual impacts and community feedback. While fees apply, their expertise resolving local complexities or refining proposals to approval can prove invaluable. DIY applications risk missing important details liable to delay or enforcement action. So investing in experienced advisors upfront aids smooth approval.
UK homeowners do not have free rein to change roof pitches without roofing company consent. Any alterations to the roof’s shape, height, or exterior appearance typically require planning permission – with greater restrictions for protected buildings and conservation zones. Minor repairs or upgrades may be permissible, but the specifications must remain substantially unaltered. Always double-check formalities with your local authority first before undertaking works to adjust roof pitch. Where uncertainty exists, engage qualified professionals such as a roofing company to increase approval odds. They can also ensure full compliance with building codes should permission be granted. While adding roof space can be tempting, abide by proper protocols to avoid undoing non-compliant work.
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