What do conservation rooflights involve?
Our conservation rooflights service in Edinburgh and the Lothians covers slim, low-profile steel-look rooflights for period and listed roofs. We survey every job before fixing the price.
Tenements and flats are common in Scottish towns and cities, where rooflights over stairwells and top-floor flats need the owners' and factor's agreement. Many Scottish homes have dormers and attic rooms where an extra roof window adds light without a full dormer.
Towns in Edinburgh and the Lothians
What you can choose
- Toughened or laminated double glazing
- Central vertical glazing bar
- Flashings for slate or plain tile
- Blinds
- Steel or aluminium frames
- Optional central glazing bar
- Steel or aluminium frame in black or grey
Planning and building rules in Scotland
In Scotland most rooflights on houses fall under Class 2B permitted development; in a conservation area, or on a listed building, consent is needed. Listed buildings need listed building consent where the work affects their character.
Scottish energy standards for glazing, including rooflights, use an area-weighted average of 1.4–1.6 W/m²K in extensions, so most modern units comply comfortably. Forming a new opening normally involves structural work, so check with the local authority verifier whether a building warrant is needed.
What do conservation rooflights cost in Edinburgh and the Lothians?
Guide prices for conservation rooflights in Edinburgh and the Lothians are the same as anywhere we work — what changes the price is the job: access, structure, scaffold and finishing.
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Large or electric conservation rooflight | £2,755 – £4,195 | £2,295 – £3,495 |
| Standard conservation rooflight Typical | £2,035 – £2,755 | £1,695 – £2,295 |
| Small conservation rooflight | £1,795 – £2,155 | £1,495 – £1,795 |
How the job runs
- Tell us about the roof. Send the postcode, rough sizes and a photo or two through the form, WhatsApp or the guide-price tool.
- Free survey. For new installations a surveyor measures the opening, checks the roof build-up and talks through glass and options.
- Fixed written quote. You get the product, the work and the price in writing. Nothing is ordered or paid for until you agree.
- Fitting and handover. We fit, seal and make good, then hand over product data, warranties and any certificate paperwork.
Conservation rooflights in nearby areas
Common questions
Are conservation rooflights double glazed?
Most modern ones are, with slim units behind the traditional frame.
Can they open?
Yes, most are top-hung or side-hung for ventilation and cleaning, with manual or electric operation.
Do they suit slate roofs?
Yes — flashings are made for slates and for plain tiles.
Do I need consent for a conservation rooflight?
On a listed building you need listed building consent. In a conservation area, check with the council — many areas have Article 4 directions affecting roof alterations.
Do I need to be at home for the survey in Edinburgh and the Lothians?
Yes — someone needs to let us into the room below and, where possible, show us how the roof is reached.
