Consent to change windows

ChirpyChicken

alwo1210 said:

Thank you very much for all reply. Does anyone know about any governments funding grants to help with changing windows?

No this country is short of money.

HampshireH

Whether you are replacing with UPVc or not as flats don't have permitted development some councils will require you to have planning permission regardless of what you are putting in. Some don't care. But if you have a council who do then they could go down the enforcement route and they will serve that on the freeholder (who won't be impressed) can be an expensive mistake to make.

A pre planning application can determine this if they won't disclose to you their stance. In a conservation area they are even more likely to suggest a pre planning application 

Albermarle

eddddy said:

alwo1210 said:

The building is from 1874 and has been converted into flats in 1984. All windows are timber single glaze, different sizes and shapes. They are not especially ornate. 

I think i will try to find out an estimate cost of windows before i will go any further in case the cost could be too much.

The cost will depend on what you are required to do by the council.

It's very possible that they'll want you to get custom made timber frames, that match the originals. They might be very expensive.

So, for example, an estimate for PVC frames might not be a good indication.

Why are you thinking of replacing the windows? Is it because their rotten - and perhaps beyond repair?

Or is it for better insulation? If so, you could look at secondary double glazing - which would probably be much cheaper.

I would imagine that if the windows are all shapes and sizes, the cost of PVC frames will be significantly more expensive than you would usually expect as well. 

alwo1210

Does anyone know if i would need a consent from a Freeholder if i would like to repair my windows or put double glazing in? 

user1977

alwo1210 said:

Does anyone know if i would need a consent from a Freeholder if i would like to repair my windows or put double glazing in? 

Depends what your lease says. I would doubt a repair needs consent (though you may wish to check whether they are in fact your windows or the freeholder's!).

alwo1210

Does anyone know how long i would have to wait for a reply with consent to change my windows?

eddddy

alwo1210 said:

Does anyone know how long i would have to wait for a reply with consent to change my windows?

Do you mean a reply with consent from your freeholder - or from the council conservation area team?

If you mean your freeholder, the best plan is to ask them.

Are you asking the question because you've made an application and you haven't heard back?

If so, what has happened so far?

• Have you sent them a request by letter/email?
• Did they acknowledge your letter/email?
• Have they asked you to pay a fee?
• Have you contacted them?
• Have they requested more information?

Or has your letter/email got lost?

alwo1210

I have send a letter to management company ( free holder) over a week ago, but i havent heard anything yet, so i am just wondering if there is any time they have to reply by.

bobster2

alwo1210 said:

I have send a letter to management company ( free holder) over a week ago, but i havent heard anything yet, so i am just wondering if there is any time they have to reply by.

It is still not clear from all your questions whether you have checked the lease - and determined who is responsible for the windows.

https://www.commongroundestates.co.uk/leasehold-library/guide-to-windows-replacement-in-leasehold-properties/

alwo1210

I have checked my lease and spoke with counsil and they would like me to apply for a permission. I have sent a letter to management company to get a consent, just wondering how long it could take.
thank you