Local Planning, Building Regulations & Community Guide
Everything you need to know about planning permissions, permitted development rights, Building Regulations, and local heritage compliance across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. Plus, discover our favourite local highlights around our home base in Ditton and Aylesford.
Navigating Roofing Permits & UK Building Regulations
Whether you are planning a complete roof replacement, installing a warm conservatory roof, or converting a flat roof, adhering to UK Building Standards protects your home's structural integrity and preserves its resale value.
Permitted Development Rights
Most re-roofing, maintenance, and solar panel installations fall under Permitted Development (PD), meaning full planning permission is generally not required, provided alterations do not exceed 150mm from the existing roof plane.
- ✓ No higher than highest part of roof
- ✓ Side-facing windows obscure-glazed
Building Regulations: Part L
Under Building Regulations Approved Document Part L (Fuel and Power), if you renovate or replace more than 25% of a roof's surface area, the thermal insulation must be upgraded to meet contemporary U-value targets.
- ✓ Mandatory on >25% roof replacements
- ✓ Eliminates cold bridging & condensation
Conservation & Listed Properties
In Conservation Areas (such as historic districts in Sevenoaks, Rochester, Tonbridge, and Tunbridge Wells) or Listed Buildings, strict material-matching rules apply, including authentic handmade Kent peg tiles or Welsh slates.
- ✓ Article 4 direction advisory checks
- ✓ Heritage officer liaison support
Need Help with Building Control Applications?
Century Roofing and Building manages the complete compliance process for major projects across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. We calculate roof pitch, assess load-bearing timbers, and coordinate with local planning authorities so you obtain the necessary completion certificates with zero stress.
Planning Authorities in Our Service Area
Century Roofing and Building is based in Ditton, Aylesford (ME20 6AS), operating within a 50-mile radius across Kent, Surrey, East Sussex, West Sussex, and South/Southeast London (excluding Essex). We frequently work alongside building control officers across key local authorities:
If your project includes adding dormer windows, altering load-bearing roof purlins, or converting a conservatory with a warm solid roof, our team ensures your submission complies precisely with Part L (Thermal Efficiency) and Part A (Structural Safety).
Local Compliance Fact:
Replacing an existing conservatory polycarbonate roof with a tiled warm roof requires structural load calculation and building control notification. We handle this end-to-end.Exploring Ditton, Aylesford & the Kent Countryside
As a proud, locally based contractor situated in Ditton, Aylesford, we are passionate about the rich architectural heritage and stunning natural surroundings of the Medway Valley and the Kent Downs. Here is our insider guide to our local area.
Historic Landmarks & Sights
- The Friars (Aylesford Priory) An inspiring 13th-century Carmelite monastery situated on the banks of the River Medway, renowned for ancient medieval architecture, peaceful gardens, and ceramic artwork.
- Aylesford Medieval Bridge One of the oldest intact medieval river spans in Kent, framed by character cottages featuring historic Kent peg clay roofs.
- Kits Coty House & Megaliths Neolithic monument stones sitting on the crest of the Kent Downs above Blue Bell Hill, offering panoramic views across the Weald.
Parks, Walks & Nature
- Leybourne Lakes Country Park Spanning over 230 acres of restored gravel pits, offering scenic lake walks, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and wildlife bird hides.
- Manor Park Country Park (West Malling) A serene 52-acre park with open grassland, a lake, and native woodland, once part of an 18th-century estate.
- Medway Valley Footpath Follow the riverside path from Tonbridge through Aylesford down to Rochester, taking in river locks and wildlife habitats.
Where to Eat & Drink
- The Little Gem (Aylesford) A charming, Grade II-listed traditional riverside pub dating back hundreds of years, offering local Kentish ales and a roaring open fire.
- The Bush, Blackbird & Thrush (East Peckham) A beloved rural Kentish freehouse celebrated for authentic country hospitality and locally sourced seasonal fare.
- West Malling High Street Eateries A vibrant selection of gastropubs, fine Italian dining, and artisanal bakeries nestled within historic timber-framed streetscapes.
Full-Service Roofing Tailored to Local Architecture
From rural oast houses and Victorian townhouses to contemporary new builds, Century Roofing and Building delivers high-quality roofing, structural timber assessments, and roofline improvements.
Serving Homeowners Within a 50-Mile Radius
Based at 1 New Road, Ditton, Aylesford ME20 6AS, we provide reliable, insured roofing services across Kent, Surrey, East Sussex, West Sussex, and South/Southeast London (excluding Essex).
Mid & West Kent
- Ditton & Aylesford
- Maidstone & Bearsted
- Snodland & West Malling
- Tonbridge & Hildenborough
- Tunbridge Wells & Paddock Wood
- Sevenoaks & Westerham
North & East Kent
- Rochester & Strood
- Chatham & Gillingham
- Gravesend & Dartford
- Sittingbourne & Faversham
- Canterbury (Western Areas)
- Ashford & Kingsnorth
Surrey & Sussex
- Redhill & Reigate
- Epsom & Leatherhead
- Crawley & Horley
- East Grinstead
- Haywards Heath & Burgess Hill
- Guildford (Eastern Suburbs)
South & SE London
- Bromley & Chislehurst
- Orpington & Petts Wood
- Croydon (Eastern Suburbs)
- Bexley & Sidcup
- Beckenham & West Wickham
- Biggin Hill & Swanley
Local Planning & Regulations FAQs
Do I need planning permission to re-tile my roof in Kent?
In the vast majority of cases, re-tiling or repairing an existing roof does not require formal planning permission as it falls under Permitted Development rights. However, if your home is a Listed Building or situated within a designated Conservation Area (e.g. in Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells, or Rochester), you may need Listed Building Consent or need to comply with Article 4 Directions regarding tile type and colour.
When do Building Regulations apply to roof replacements?
Under Part L of the Building Regulations, if you replace more than 25% of the total roof covering, you must upgrade the insulation to meet current thermal performance targets (U-values). Century Roofing and Building ensures all installations adhere to Part L and Part A (structural load safety), ensuring compliance certificates can be issued.
Can I replace my conservatory roof with a solid tiled roof without planning permission?
Yes, solid conservatory warm roofs generally fall within Permitted Development. However, you must ensure the structural timbers or lightweight frame are properly engineered and that the replacement complies with Building Control requirements for thermal efficiency. We carry out full structural checks prior to installation.
Why is spray foam insulation a problem for local surveyors and mortgage lenders?
Closed-cell or poorly ventilated open-cell spray foam applied directly to roof timbers can trap moisture, leading to interstitial condensation, wood rot, and inability for structural surveyors to inspect the rafters. Century Roofing and Building offers specialist spray foam removal to restore structural health and mortgage compliance.
Plan Your Roofing Project with Confidence
Whether you require advice on conservation materials, a full roof replacement, or emergency repairs, our experienced team based in Ditton, Aylesford is here to provide honest advice and free, no-obligation quotes.