Windows & doors in City of London: Planning Permission Guide
A guide to replacing windows and doors in City of London — when you need planning permission and typical costs.
Based on 106 decided applications in City of London over 12 months (106 granted, 0 refused).
The City of London is almost entirely conservation area, with extensive listed building coverage reflecting centuries of heritage. Residential permitted development is extremely limited due to the dense mix of commercial and listed contexts. Any external alteration typically requires both full planning permission and listed building consent. The City Corporation maintains detailed design guidance for each conservation area.
Recent windows & doors decisions in City of London
The 5 most recent decided applications. Addresses redacted to postcode area.
Replacement of existing glazing with new entrance door and associated glazing at ground level.
Refurbishment of the existing bathroom and separate shower/WC, including replacement sanitary ware, finishes, and fittings, together with…
Alterations to a Listed Building including: (i) upgrades to mechanical heating systems, (ii) upgrade to and provision of new ground floor…
Replacement of internal fire doors across all floors
External alterations to ground floor elevation comprising, (i) installation of 2no. revolving doors, (ii) installation of 1no. automated …
These are borough-wide. See the 5 nearest to your address.
Check your address freePermitted Development Rules
Replacing or adding windows/doors may need planning permission in conservation areas or for listed buildings.
Replacing windows and doors like-for-like generally doesn't need planning permission. However, in conservation areas or listed buildings, changes to the appearance of windows and doors may require consent.
Typical Costs in London
Window and door costs depend on the number of openings, material choice, and style.
Typical total
Typically includes
Typically excludes
Highly variable depending on number of windows, material (UPVC vs timber vs aluminium), and style. Per-window costs typically £500–£1,500.
Get a personalised cost estimate based on your actual windows & doors dimensions.
Get my estimateWhich Professionals Do You Need?
Window replacements rarely need professional services. Suppliers typically handle measurement, manufacture, and installation.
This project is unlikely to need specialist professional services beyond a competent builder.
This type of project does not typically require architectural services.
This guidance is based on a typical semi-detached house with no special constraints. Listed buildings, conservation areas, and attached properties may require additional professional input.
Find out exactly which professionals you need for your windows & doors.
Get personalised guidanceConservation Areas & Listed Buildings
In conservation areas, changing window materials (e.g. timber to UPVC) or styles may need planning permission. Listed buildings always need Listed Building Consent for any window or door changes.
Properties in conservation areas often have reduced permitted development rights. Some project types (like side extensions) lose PD rights entirely. An Article 4 Direction can remove additional PD rights.
Listed buildings (Grade I, II*, or II) have no permitted development rights at all. Any external alteration requires Listed Building Consent in addition to any planning permission. An architect experienced in heritage work is essential.
Check if your property is in a conservation area or has other planning constraints.
Check my propertyFrequently Asked Questions
Just want a quick yes/no for your windows & doors?
Run our free 2-minute check to see whether your project likely qualifies as permitted development in City of London — your address, your constraints, your council's own recent decisions.
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