Project guideUsually permitted

Windows & doors in Exeter: Planning Permission Guide

A guide to replacing windows and doors in Exeter — when you need planning permission and typical costs.

88%
approved in Exeter
£548
application fee
8 wks
typical decision
Usually permitted

Based on 25 decided applications in Exeter over 24 months (22 granted, 3 refused).

Exeter has 20 conservation areas affecting external alterations in those zones. A small number (1) of Article 4 directions apply. 995 listed buildings recorded.

Council planning portalPre-application advice

Will yours qualify?

Free 2-minute check for your Exeter address.

Run my free check

Recent windows & doors decisions in Exeter

The 5 most recent decided applications. Addresses redacted to postcode area.

Granted

Repair of existing first floor arched window on rear with the replacement of rotten frame and bottom sash section to match existing desig…

EX12026-08-10
Granted

Discharge of Conditions 3, 5 and 6 of Planning Permission Ref. 25/1691/FUL, granted 21 January 2026, relating to noise mitigation, window…

EX42026-07-17
Granted

Repair windows; retrofit sash windows; replace modern doors and windows; repair plaster and render with lime; replace UPVC gutters with h…

EX42026-06-16
Withdrawn by Applicant

The application is to undertake work on 1 tree. (T1)T1 is a large Weeping Willow. Seeking permission to pollard T1 to approximately 5m in…

EX42026-06-16
Granted

Amendment of selected windows, including omission of 2no, and addition of 2no. rooflights to the approved 25/1816/FUL

EX42026-04-13

These are borough-wide. See the 5 nearest to your address.

Check your address free

Permitted 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 South West England

Window and door costs depend on the number of openings, material choice, and style.

Windows & doorsSouth West England

Typical total

£2,800£13,000

Typically includes

Windows/doorsInstallationMaking good

Typically excludes

Planning application feeBuilding regs fee

Highly variable depending on number of windows, material (UPVC vs timber vs aluminium), and style. Per-window costs typically £450–£1,300.

Get a personalised cost estimate based on your actual windows & doors dimensions.

Get my estimate

Which 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.

Architect / designerNot needed

This type of project does not typically require architectural services.

Structural engineerNot needed
Party wall surveyorNot needed
Planning consultantNot needed

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 guidance

Conservation 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.

Conservation areas

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

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 property

Frequently 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 Exeter — your address, your constraints, your council's own recent decisions.

Free 2-min check