How we approach roof lanterns in Derby
Roof lanterns in Derby means hipped glass lanterns that lift the ceiling of orangeries and extensions. We cover the DE1 district and the rest of Derbyshire, with a survey before any price is fixed.
Midlands housing is a mix of Victorian terraces, inter-war semis and newer estates, and rear kitchen extensions with flat rooflights are a common upgrade. Typical uses for roof lanterns include rooms that need height as well as light.
We cover all of Derby and the DE1 district, and nearby Belper and Ilkeston.
Options we can specify in Derby
- Solar-control or self-cleaning glass
- Rectangular, square or bespoke sizes
- Opening vents with electric control
- Internal and external colours
- Aluminium or uPVC systems
- Slim aluminium bars, more glass
- Adds visual height to a single-storey room
Things we check at survey
- Plaster-box depth affects how the lantern looks from below
- Larger lanterns may need a steel or timber ring beam
Planning, building control and Derby
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. 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. The Future Homes and Buildings Standards, published in March 2026, apply from 24 March 2027 and keep the 2.2 W/m²K limit for rooflights.
See our building regulations guide for U-values, glazing limits and self-certification.
Guide prices for Derby
Prices below are shown including and excluding VAT. In Derby, as elsewhere, making good inside and access equipment are the main variables.
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Large or bespoke aluminium lantern | £5,995 – £10,795 | £4,995 – £8,995 |
| Mid-size aluminium lantern (2 × 3 m) Typical | £3,955 – £5,995 | £3,295 – £4,995 |
| Small lantern (1 × 2 m) | £2,995 – £3,955 | £2,495 – £3,295 |
The process, step by step
- Tell us what you have. Send the DE1 postcode, a rough size and a couple of photos.
- Free site visit. For new installs we survey free, measure and confirm the roof detail.
- Agree the quote. You approve the specification and price before anything is ordered.
- Fit and make good. We fit, seal, test and finish the reveal, then hand over the paperwork.
Neighbouring towns
More we do in Derby
Roof lanterns in Derby: questions
Do they leak?
Modern lanterns are sealed systems. Leaks usually trace back to the kerb or roof membrane detail, which we form and check ourselves.
Aluminium or uPVC?
Aluminium gives slimmer bars and a longer life; uPVC costs less. We fit both.
Do roof lanterns get hot?
They can in summer if clear glass is used on a south-facing roof. Solar-control glass and an opening vent make a big difference.
How do I book a survey in Derby?
Send your postcode and, if you can, a photo of the roof and the room. We offer a survey date when we reply.
Will I need planning permission in Derby?
Most rooflights on English houses do not need planning permission, provided they keep within 150 mm of the roof surface and below the ridge line.
