What are hinged roof access rooflights?
A hinged access rooflight is a glazed hatch that lifts on gas struts or an electric actuator to give you a way out onto a flat roof or terrace from a stair or ladder below. Closed, it works as an ordinary rooflight; open, it is a door in the ceiling.
Access hatches are the most economical way to reach a roof terrace, plant area or maintenance zone, and they light the stair at the same time.
We size the hatch to the stair, check the headroom and the swing of the lid, and fit the unit so the hinge side suits the way you step out.
- Typical openings
- 700 × 900 mm to 1000 × 2000 mm
- Opening
- Hinged, gas strut or electric
- Glazing
- Double or triple, laminated inner
- Security
- Lockable from inside
- Fitting time
- 1–2 days
- Typical lead time
- 3–6 weeks from order
Why choose hinged roof access rooflights?
- Roof access and daylight in one unit
- Gas-strut or electric opening
- Lockable from inside
- Lower cost than a sliding box unit
- Suits stairs, ladders and plant access
- Insulated frame and double or triple glazing
What options are there?
- Manual gas-strut or electric opening
- Rain sensor on electric versions
- Hinge side to suit the stair
- Grab rail or handle inside
- Double or triple glazing
- Frame colour options
What should you check before you order?
- Stair headroom and the clear opening must meet Building Regulations
- The lid must open clear of parapets and balustrades
- Roof edges people reach may need guarding
- Electric versions need a supply and a safety check
Planning and building-regulation rules differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Our planning guide and building regulations guide set out each nation's position.
How much do hinged roof access rooflights cost?
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Large electric access hatch | £5,395 – £7,795 | £4,495 – £6,495 |
| Gas-strut hatch with grab handle Typical | £3,955 – £5,395 | £3,295 – £4,495 |
| Compact manual hatch | £3,595 – £4,195 | £2,995 – £3,495 |
Guide prices per hatch, supplied and fitted. Your fixed price follows a free survey for new installations.
Hinged roof access rooflights: common questions
How big does an access hatch need to be?
Big enough to climb through comfortably for the stair or ladder you have. For a stair, we size it to the stair width and the headroom; for occasional plant access a smaller hatch can work.
Can it be opened from the roof?
Many units have an external handle or key for opening from outside. If you need that, tell us at survey.
Electric or manual?
Gas-strut hatches are simple and reliable. Electric hatches suit heavier lids, wider openings and anyone who would struggle to push a lid up.
Does it let in as much light as a normal rooflight?
Yes — closed, it is a glazed rooflight. The frame is slightly deeper to carry the hinge and seals.
Is it secure?
Units lock from inside. As with any rooftop door, keep it locked when the house is empty.
Can it replace an old loft hatch?
Where there is a flat roof above, yes. On a pitched roof, an access roof window is the equivalent.
