Question 1

Do I need planning permission to replace my windows?

Accepted Answer

If your property is in a conservation area or is listed, you may need planning permission or listed building consent. We have extensive experience navigating this process and can advise you on the requirements and help with the application.

Question 2

Can you work on listed buildings?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we have 55+ years of experience on listed buildings and within Edinburgh's conservation areas. We work closely with Historic Environment Scotland and the City of Edinburgh Council's conservation officers to ensure full compliance.

Question 3

What makes a sash and case window 'non-compliant' in Edinburgh?

Accepted Answer

In a conservation area or listed building, replacement windows must match the original in design, materials, glazing pattern, sightlines and operation. Common issues that make windows non-compliant include: uPVC or aluminium frames, modern double-glazed units with thick spacer bars, applied (stuck-on) astragal bars instead of true through bars, casement or tilt-and-turn mechanisms in place of vertically sliding sashes, missing or wrong horn profiles, and visible trickle vents on principal elevations.

Question 4

I've been served a planning enforcement notice — what do I do?

Accepted Answer

Don't remove anything yourself. Get in touch immediately and we'll arrange an urgent compliance survey, prepare the technical drawings and specification the City of Edinburgh Council requires, liaise with your case officer, and quote for a compliant replacement. We've worked through dozens of remedial cases across the New Town, Old Town, Stockbridge, Marchmont, Bruntsfield and Leith conservation areas.

Question 5

Will non-compliant windows affect a property sale?

Accepted Answer

Yes — non-compliant windows almost always show up on Home Reports and conveyancing searches, particularly for listed buildings. Buyers' solicitors routinely ask for evidence of Listed Building Consent, and unauthorised alterations can drive down sale prices, delay transactions and complicate mortgage approvals. Bringing windows back into compliance protects both the building's character and your equity.

Question 6

Can uPVC sash windows ever be approved in Edinburgh conservation areas?

Accepted Answer

In almost all cases, no. Both the City of Edinburgh Council and Historic Environment Scotland take a clear position that uPVC is not an appropriate material for traditional sash and case windows in conservation areas or listed buildings. The only authentic, conservation-acceptable replacement is timber, typically engineered redwood or hardwood, manufactured to match the original profile.

Question 7

Is secondary glazing a good option for listed buildings?

Accepted Answer

Yes — secondary glazing is one of the most listed-building-friendly thermal upgrades available. Because it sits behind your existing window and doesn't alter the external appearance, it's typically acceptable in conservation areas and listed buildings. It can reduce heat loss by up to 65% and external noise by up to 80%.

Listed Buildings & Conservation

Conservation Areas

Listed Building Consent

Our Experience

Listed Buildings & Conservation

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