How we approach roof lanterns in London
We handle roof lanterns across Greater London, including London. In short: hipped glass lanterns that lift the ceiling of orangeries and extensions. The survey checks structure, weathering and orientation, so the quote reflects your actual roof.
Many London roofs are reached only through the house or over neighbouring property, so lifting heavy glass is planned at survey rather than on the day. In London, as anywhere, roof lanterns are the usual choice for rooms that need height as well as light.
London is the main town we list in Greater London; we also cover nearby Pimlico and Islington.
Options we can specify in London
- Opening vents with electric control
- Rectangular, square or bespoke sizes
- Internal and external colours
- LED lighting in the plaster box
- Aluminium or uPVC systems
- Classic look that suits period and modern homes
- Double or triple glazed with solar-control options
Before you order: points to check
- Needs a strong, level kerb or upstand
- Some designs project above the roof enough to affect planning on certain houses
Consents for roof lanterns in London
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. 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.
What do roof lanterns cost in London?
The ranges below are typical for straightforward jobs; your fixed price follows a survey of your roof.
| 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 |
How the job runs
- Tell us what you have. Send the EC1A postcode, a rough size and a couple of photos.
- Survey. We measure the opening, check the roof build-up and agree the options.
- Agree the quote. You approve the specification and price before anything is ordered.
- Fitting and handover. We install, clean down and leave product and warranty documents.
Nearby towns
Related work in London
Roof lanterns in London: questions
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.
Can a lantern go on an existing extension?
Yes, if the flat roof structure can be opened up and trimmed. We check joists and the roof build-up at survey.
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.
Can you work alongside my builder in London?
Yes. On new extensions we fit once the opening and upstand are ready and coordinate dates with your builder.
How do I book a survey in London?
Send your postcode and, if you can, a photo of the roof and the room. We offer a survey date when we reply.
