If you’re planning a home improvement project involving glass balustrade systems, you may be wondering whether you need planning permission or building regulations approval. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the regulations you need to consider for your project.
Types of planning permission you could have to deal with
Planning regulations vary across the UK, so it’s best to check with your local council for guidance specific to your area. However, generally, there are two types of regulations you need to consider:
Planning permission
Planning permission is required by councils for building new properties or making changes to existing buildings. This includes installing balconies or other structures that alter the appearance or use of a property. You’ll likely need to submit an application to your local authority and obtain permission before starting work..
Building regulations
Building regulations ensure that buildings and structures meet strict safety standards and won’t pose a risk to health and safety. When installing balustrades outdoors, such as to create a glass balcony, you need to comply with building regulations to ensure they’re installed correctly and meet the necessary safety standards. This may involve working with a professional installer and obtaining separate approvals from your local authority.
When do you need planning permission for glass balustrades?
In most cases, if you’re altering an existing building or building a new property from scratch, you’ll likely need planning permission. This applies to projects like installing balconies which can raise issues like overlooking neighbours’ property. While the use of a frameless glass balustrade may not necessarily trigger the need for planning permission, the project they’re being used in may require it.
However, as part of the planning permission, you may need to provide details of the materials you plan to use for any building or alteration work.
To check whether you need planning permission, you can refer to the basic guidance on the gov.uk website. However, it’s important to note that this guidance should be used as a starting point only, and you should always work with your local authority to determine whether you’ll need planning permission for your specific project.
When don’t you need planning permission to install glass balcony systems?
In some cases, your project may fall under the category of ‘permitted development’. Permitted development rights allow certain types of home improvements, like loft conversions or the installation of solar panels, to be carried out without the need for planning permission in some cases. However, the rules around permitted development can be complex, so it’s always best to check with your local authority before starting any work.
What building regulations do you need to comply with when installing glass balustrades?
In addition to planning permission, you’ll need to comply with building regulations when installing glass balustrades. Building regulations are in place to ensure that buildings and structures meet strict health & safety standards.
When it comes to glass balustrade systems, there are industry standards that you’ll need to comply with depending on your project. For example, glass balustrades need to be manufactured to certain standards to be used safely. It’s important to work with a reputable supplier that understands the requirements of your project, and who can provide balustrades that meet these standards.
What standards do glass balustrades need to meet?
During installation, there are several standards that need to be met in relation to their height and placement. For example, if you’re using glass balustrade systems on an outdoor balcony, they’ll need to be a certain height to ensure the safety of those using the balcony. The specific standards will depend on the details of your project, so it’s important to work with a professional who can advise you on these requirements.
Get the best glass balustrades from Express Toughening
Whatever your project, it’s important to choose high-quality glass balustrades that not only look great but also meet the necessary safety standards. At Express Toughening, we provide a range of toughened frameless glass balustrades that are designed to meet the highest industry standards. Contact us today to find out more about our products and services as well as to discuss glass balustrade cost within your project.
