Windows & doors in Tower Hamlets: Planning Permission Guide
A guide to replacing windows and doors in Tower Hamlets — when you need planning permission and typical costs.
Based on 156 decided applications in Tower Hamlets over 12 months (137 granted, 19 refused).
Tower Hamlets has conservation areas in Spitalfields, Bow, Limehouse, Wapping, and around the Isle of Dogs. Article 4 Directions restrict alterations to Georgian and Victorian terraces, particularly around Spitalfields and Fournier Street. Listed building density is notably high in Spitalfields and Wapping. Flood zones along the Thames and Lea add restrictions for outbuildings and basement extensions.
Recent windows & doors decisions in Tower Hamlets
The 5 most recent decided applications. Addresses redacted to postcode area.
Installation of secondary glazing to the Boiler House and Coal Store windows, and the application of a waterproof membrane to the interio…
Replacement of existing modern doors with new modern doors, replacement of existing modern glazing with attenuated louvers at east elevat…
Replacement of existing single glazed timber framed sash front windows, double glazed timber framed rear casement windows and rear timber…
Installation of louvres to main fa‡ade window and part retrospective application for fixing of signage above doorway
Proposed replacement of first and second floor timber sash windows with new timber sash windows
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 Tower Hamlets — your address, your constraints, your council's own recent decisions.
Free 2-min check