What do electric opening rooflights involve?
Across Surrey, our electric opening rooflights work covers hinged rooflights that open on an electric actuator for fresh air. Survey first, fixed price second, fitting third.
Across the South East, single-storey kitchen extensions on 1930s semis and post-war detached houses are where most flat rooflights and lanterns go. Orangery-style extensions with lanterns are popular across the South East, and solar-control glass makes a big difference on south-facing gardens.
Towns in Surrey
Options we can specify
- Integral blind
- Double or triple glazing
- Electric actuator with wall switch or remote
- Manual winder on smaller units
- Smart-home or app control (manufacturer dependent)
- Clears cooking steam and summer heat at ceiling level
- Can be grouped with fixed units on one roof
Planning and building rules in England
In England a rooflight on a house is usually permitted development under Class C if it projects no more than 150 mm beyond the roof slope and sits no higher than the ridge. Listed buildings need listed building consent, flats have no householder permitted development rights, and an Article 4 direction can remove the rights in some conservation areas.
For English homes the energy rules ask for rooflights of 2.2 W/m²K or better and roof windows of 1.4 W/m²K (or WER Band B); most modern double glazed units meet both. Replacing a rooflight or roof window can be self-certified by an installer registered with an authorised competent person scheme; otherwise building control approval is needed.
What do electric opening rooflights cost in Surrey?
Guide prices for electric opening rooflights in Surrey 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 with rain sensor and blind | £4,195 – £5,995 | £3,495 – £4,995 |
| Mid-size electric with rain sensor Typical | £2,995 – £4,195 | £2,495 – £3,495 |
| Small manual or electric opening unit | £2,395 – £3,115 | £1,995 – £2,595 |
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.
Opening rooflights in nearby areas
Common questions
Does it need an electrician?
The rooflight wiring needs a suitable supply. We can arrange it, or your own electrician can provide the spur and we connect the unit.
What happens if it rains while it is open?
With a rain sensor fitted, the actuator closes the lid automatically when the sensor detects water. Without one, the lid stays where you left it, which is why we recommend the sensor on any unit over a kitchen or bedroom.
Is it noisy?
Actuators run for a few seconds and are about as loud as an electric blind. Once closed, an opening unit is as quiet as a fixed one.
Can I control it from my phone?
Some ranges link to smart-home hubs or their own app. If that matters, say so at survey and we will specify a compatible model.
Will I need planning permission in Surrey?
English householder permitted development (Class C) normally covers rooflights that stand no more than 0.15 m proud of the roof plane and stay below the highest part of the roof.
