Bi-fold doors

While it’s highly unlikely that you will need planning permission when installing bifold doors in your home. If your new doors are a part of an extension, it’s best to double check before you get started just to be on the safe side.

What is planning permission?

Planning permission is asking if you can do a certain piece of building work. It will be granted or refused and it’s your responsibility for seeking, or not seeking, planning permission. If it’s needed, it should be granted before any work begins.

Permitted development rights

Most extensions and home improvements fall within permitted development rights, meaning the planning permission process can be avoided.

Under permitted development rights, a single storey extension can be built up to 6m from the original rear wall of an attached house, or 8m if you live in a detached house, and up to 4m in height. If you are after a two storey extension, then it cannot be taller than your existing roof, it can’t extend beyond your existing rear wall by more than 3m, and it must be at least 7m from your boundary.

You can create an incredibly spacious open plan living area by combining your living spaces and adding bifold doors. Why not make the most of the extra space by using it as a dining area for the whole family to relax after a long day? Trade Windows aluminium bifold doors can seamlessly lead you to your outdoor living area such as a patio, decking or garden – perfect for hosting summer parties. But do you need planning permission before having them installed?

Planning permission for bifold doors in an extension

You will only need to look into planning permission if your extension size and design are not covered by permitted development rights.

If this is the case, the Trade Windows team work closely with you on larger glazed extensions like this which require planning permission, so that you can have full confidence in your project.

Planning permission for balconies

If you have a balcony, bifold doors are a great addition. They frame your view through the large expanses of glass and slimline frames, and bring the outside one step closer into your home.

However, if you are planning a new balcony that overlooks someone else’s property you will need to be sure to have planning permission as you want to be able to make the most of your views and space, without upsetting your neighbours!

Planning permission for a heritage or listed building

When it comes to heritage and listed buildings, planning laws are very different. Laws also differ for properties that are on ‘designated land’, in protected areas, or if your home is located in a conservation area, National Park, or an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Planning permission can sometimes be complicated, especially with listed buildings, as they can require certain material, design and colour choices that need to be warranted.

To make sure all these requirements and permissions are met, we work closely with you on your project from design to installation, with all of these factors considered when installing your bifold doors. For even more peace of mind, we are used to these types of properties as we have worked in and around Darley Abbey and Derwent Valley Mills.

Start your project with Trade Windows

So, when you ask yourself, do I need planning permission for bifold doors? Don’t worry! We have got you covered. Planning permission doesn’t have to be complicated, so whether you’re replacing existing doors or starting a new project from scratch, we’re here to help. If you would like to find out more, get in touch with us or request a quote to get your project started today.