How we approach smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) in Hove
Smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) in Hove means automatic smoke ventilators at the head of stairwells and atria. We cover the BN3 district and the rest of East Sussex, with a survey before any price is fixed.
Larger gardens in much of the South East mean deeper rear extensions, and deeper rooms need light from above rather than only from the doors. Think of smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) for communal stairwells, corridors and atria.
From Hove to Brighton, Portslade and Rottingdean, the same survey-first process applies: measure, specify, fix the price, then fit.
Specification options
- Rain and wind sensors for daily vent use
- Service and test plans
- Glazed rooflight or louvred vent
- Electric (24 V) or pneumatic actuation
- Control panel with battery backup
- Replacement of failed or obsolete units
- Also usable for day-to-day ventilation
What to check first
- The product should be certified to BS EN 12101-2 as a natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilator
- Replacing a vent with a non-equivalent product can affect the fire strategy
Rules and responsibilities in Hove
Smoke vents are life-safety equipment: in England the responsible person must keep them maintained under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. We install to the building's fire strategy and the manufacturer's certification.
For buildings other than dwellings, Approved Document L Volume 2 sets limiting U-values of 2.2 W/m²K for rooflights and 3.0 W/m²K for roof ventilators, including smoke vents. Fragile-roof safety and access are planned before work starts.
See our building regulations guide for U-values, glazing limits and self-certification.
Guide prices for Hove
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 glazed AOV with actuators | £4,795 – £7,795 | £3,995 – £6,495 |
| Standard glazed AOV Typical | £3,595 – £4,795 | £2,995 – £3,995 |
| Replacement vent onto existing upstand | £2,995 – £3,595 | £2,495 – £2,995 |
How the job runs
- Send the details. Postcode, rough size and a photo of the roof and room.
- 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.
- Installation day. Usually one day into a prepared opening, longer for new openings.
Neighbouring towns
Related work in Hove
Smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) in Hove: questions
Do smoke vents need a control panel?
Electric AOVs work with a control panel that links them to detectors, the fire alarm and override switches.
Who is responsible for maintaining smoke vents?
The responsible person (or duty holder in Scotland, appropriate person in Northern Ireland) for the building must keep fire safety systems maintained. We can arrange servicing and keep records.
How often should AOVs be tested?
Industry guidance recommends regular functional checks and at least annual servicing. Your fire risk assessment sets the regime.
How do I book a survey in Hove?
Send your postcode and, if you can, a photo of the roof and the room. We offer a survey date when we reply.
Do I need to be at home for the survey in Hove?
Yes — someone needs to let us into the room below and, where possible, show us how the roof is reached.
