Flat Roof Building Regulations: The Need-to-Knows

When you’re planning to repair or replace your flat roof, you will need to make sure you adhere to the flat roof Building Regulations.

You may also need to seek Planning Permission too, which is separate to Building Regulations.

What are Building Regulations?

Building Regulations set the standards for the design and construction of buildings to ensure the safety of people in or around the building.

They also include standards to ensure that fuel and power are used efficiently and that everyone is able to access and move around inside the building.


How do Building Regulations relate to flat roofs?

You may not need Building Regulations approval for flat roof work, but it’s always worth checking. Since Building Regulations relate to the safety and efficiency of a building, there are some instances where you’ll need to get Building Regulations approval.

You won’t always need Building Regulations approval

For some repairs to flat roofs, you won’t need to make a building regulations application.

If you need to repair or re-cover less than 25% of the roof, you won’t normally need to submit a building regulations application. However, you may need to upgrade the insulation on the roof to reduce the amount of heat that is lost.

Flat roof Building Regulations state minimum standards

If you’re adding a new roof, for example on an extension, Building Regulations sets out some minimum requirements.

The roof must:

  • Resist weather
  • Resist the spread of fire
  • Be able to support loads
  • Have adequate drainage
  • Be ventilated to protect from condensation

You’ll need to provide full details of the new roof, including materials and dimensions, in an application. This is to demonstrate that you’re compliant with the Building Regulations.

Building Regulations can be pretty confusing, so it’s always worth speaking to a professional about it to ensure that you fully understand everything you need to know. For more information, visit the government’s website.

Emily Rivers

Emily Rivers is the Customer Experience Manager at Quotatis. She informs customers of the latest developments in a range of products so they can make the best choice for their homes and ensures they get the best out of our service.