How we approach smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) in Oxford
For Oxford homes and buildings we offer smoke vent rooflights (AOVs): automatic smoke ventilators at the head of stairwells and atria. We measure first, specify to the opening and confirm any planning or building-control points before quoting.
Period cottages and conservation-area streets are common in the South East, so slim conservation rooflights are often the right choice. Smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) suit communal stairwells, corridors and atria.
Oxford is the main town we list in Oxfordshire; we also cover nearby Abingdon and Didcot.
What you can choose
- Glazed rooflight or louvred vent
- Break-glass and smoke-detector triggers
- Electric (24 V) or pneumatic actuation
- Rain and wind sensors for daily vent use
- Control panel with battery backup
- Also usable for day-to-day ventilation
- Glazed units bring daylight to stairwells
What to check first
- Smoke ventilation is designed to the building's fire strategy — we install to that design
- The product should be certified to BS EN 12101-2 as a natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilator
Building control and safety duties in Oxford
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. Fire classification of rooflight materials near boundaries is checked at specification.
Our planning guide covers each nation in more detail.
What do smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) cost in Oxford?
These are typical supply-and-fit ranges. For an address in Oxford, scaffold, a hoist for heavy glass, or a new structural opening can move the figure, which is why we survey first.
| 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 |
What happens next
- Send the details. Postcode, rough size and a photo of the roof and room.
- Survey. We measure the opening, check the roof build-up and agree the options.
- Fixed quote. Product, work and price in writing — nothing is ordered until you agree.
- Fitting and handover. We install, clean down and leave product and warranty documents.
Neighbouring towns
Other services in Oxford
Questions about smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) in Oxford
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.
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.
How often should AOVs be tested?
Industry guidance recommends regular functional checks and at least annual servicing. Your fire risk assessment sets the regime.
Can you work alongside my builder in Oxford?
Yes. On new extensions we fit once the opening and upstand are ready and coordinate dates with your builder.
Do you fit smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) in Oxford?
Yes. We survey and fit smoke vent rooflights (AOVs) in Oxford and across Oxfordshire. Send your postcode and we will offer a survey date when we reply.
