share of freehold flat-changing windows...do I

sterl1ng

need permissino from council or above freeholder? I was just calling a windows company and she asked me windows I wanted to replace and with what kind so I told her Upvc but then when she heard it was flat she said I needed permission from mgt company but I told her share of freehold then she said I need permission from coucil to find out material we can take. Don't understand, is this normal?

sinizterguy

Even if you have a share of the freehold, you don't own the freehold ... So you need permission from managing agent.

welshbookworm

Yes, and if the council is responsible for any of the other flats and it is a listed building, the council can order you to replace them with the old ones at your cost (happened in my block of flats)

sterl1ng

There is no managing agent, its just share between chap who owns upstairs and myself. So if I was asking persmission do I need to do via solicitor or simple letter ok?

Richard_Webster

Assuming no Council permission is needed - not a listed building etc - then you just need permission from teh other co-freeholder - but both you and him are freeholders you should both sign a letter saying that as freeholders you consent to the installation of new windows. Preferable really to get the a copy spec/quote provided by the window company signed as approved.

kirstym100

You may need planning permission - this it what the planning portal says:
'The planning regime for flats and maisonettes differs in many important ways to that which covers houses.


You may need to apply for planning permission to fit new windows (such as double-glazing) in your flat or maisonette. You will not need planning permission to add internal secondary glazing.


You should not need planning permission if you are fitting windows which are identical, like-with-like replacements. However, if the new windows differ in appearance or size to those you are replacing (for instance, different glazing patterns) you may need to apply for planning permission.


Local policy and interpretation of the rules covering changing windows in flats varies from council to council and you are advised to contact your Local Planning Authority for advice before starting work.'

princeofpounds

Don't forget buildings regs too (or equivalent installation qualification).

What the window company is asking you to check is totally standard, and unless you are in a conservation area or something it's not going to cause you any problems. Good to check for your own sake anyway.