EPDM Roofing Tips & Expert Insights

One Roofers Experience with Fibreglass Roofing

Disadvantages of Fibreglass Roofing

Ah, Fibreglass roofing—I've been down that road, and honestly, it's not something I’d ever choose again. I think a lot of people see the shiny marketing about how strong and lightweight fibreglass is, but when you've lived through the reality of maintaining it, the charm wears off pretty quickly. I learned a few hard lessons that have left me preferring alternatives like EPDM. Let me explain why.

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The first thing that stands out to me about fibreglass roofing is its brittleness over time

When it's brand new, it looks great, sure, and feels pretty solid. But give it a few years—especially if you’re in a climate where the temperatures really fluctuate—and you start noticing those tiny, almost invisible hairline cracks. I found that the roof was slowly losing its integrity, letting in moisture bit by bit. And anyone who has dealt with even the tiniest leak knows it's not just about the roof anymore—it becomes an interior problem, too. I had to patch mine up multiple times, and I swear, each fix only bought me a bit more time before the next issue appeared.

There’s also the matter of installation.

Installing fibreglass isn’t a simple weekend DIY project. It requires precision, perfect weather, and a good amount of skill to get it right. When I first installed it, I tried to follow all the guidelines carefully, but even then, small issues started popping up and causing trouble. Hiring someone to handle the installation can quickly add up costs, and I found that the whole process ended up feeling a lot more complicated than it should have been.

Another disappointment was the maintenance.

Fibreglass is often marketed as low-maintenance, but in my experience, that didn't hold up. Algae growth became a recurring issue, especially in the shaded areas of the roof. Once algae settled into the textured areas, it was very difficult to clean effectively. I found myself having to clean and reseal more often than I expected, and it still never quite looked as good as it originally did. Ideally, a roof should be something you can set and forget for years, but with fibreglass, that just wasn't the reality unless you lived in a completely dry area with no trees around.

That brings me to why I think EPDM is a much better choice.

EPDM, or rubber roofing, is so much more forgiving. I replaced the fibreglass with EPDM and immediately appreciated how much more flexible it was. It doesn’t have the same issues with cracking—because it’s rubber, it expands and contracts easily with changes in temperature, and that’s exactly what you want in a roof if you don’t want to be up there patching holes every season. On the other hand, installing EPDM was so much easier compared to fibreglass. The roll-on system made the process faster and much less susceptible to errors, and it felt like I was adding a durable, protective layer that I could count on.

Looking back, I really wish I had been aware of all these issues before opting for fibreglass.

While it's not the absolute worst roofing material, the constant maintenance, the brittleness, and the effort needed to keep it in decent condition were enough to turn me away from it. If you're looking for something reliable that won't require constant attention, I'd definitely lean towards EPDM over fibreglass.

Flat Roof Design Considerations

Flat Roof Design: A Comprehensive Overview

Quite rightly, flat roofs are regarded in the industry as highly versatile, allowing architects to consider more design possibilities than any other type of roof form. For example, green roofs can be introduced to create natural habitats or to serve as additional recreational spaces. While architectural designs can be limitless, there are a few considerations to consider when designing a flat roof perfectly.

What you’ll have to consider when designing a flat roof...

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Thermal Design

Thermal design focuses on managing the flow of heat and water vapour through the roof structure. This consideration is crucial for maintaining the roof's performance and its components. Designers must evaluate insulation levels to minimise heat loss and prevent condensation issues.

Insulation

Choosing the right insulation is vital for flat roof performance. It should be compatible with the waterproofing system and meet fire resistance standards. Accessibility for maintenance during and after construction is another critical factor to remember.

Condensation

Understanding condensation is critical to effective flat roof design. The dew point is the temperature of the air, which is fully saturated with moisture. When the warm air meets a cold surface, it’s cooled, and the temperature drops well below the dew point and gives up moisture in the form of surface condensation. This condensing moisture can enter the waterproof membrane and affect the system's integrity. Appropriate product selection is key.

Deck Types

The materials used for the roof deck should comply with standards like BS:6229 2018. Appropriate materials ensure durability and performance, so designers must consult relevant guidelines.

Creating Falls for Drainage

Building regulations require that flat roofs facilitate proper rainwater drainage. Following BS 6229 & BS 8217, a minimum fall of 1:40 is necessary to ensure adequate water runoff. This applies to both roof areas and internal gutters.

Drainage Systems

Flat roofs must incorporate efficient drainage solutions through internal rainwater outlets, downpipes, or external guttering systems. Even small roofs should ideally have at least two drainage points to mitigate the risk of blockages.

Fire Resistance

Building regulations dictate fire safety standards for flat roofs. Testing under TS 1187 assesses the performance of the complete waterproofing system against external fire penetration and flame spread, ensuring safety compliance.

Wind Load Design

Calculating wind load is crucial for flat roof integrity. It helps confirm that the roofing system can withstand pressure and uplift forces based on the building's design, height, and location.

Locating Rooftop Equipment

For optimal integrity, rooftop equipment should be placed directly on the waterproofing membrane to minimise interruptions that could lead to water ingress. Equipment is often supported by paving slabs with protective layers underneath.

Foot Traffic and Access

Regular foot traffic on flat roofs necessitates protective measures to safeguard the waterproofing surface. Properly defined walkways and protective materials are essential for maintenance access and fire escape routes.

Rooflights

Incorporating rooflights into flat roofs can significantly enhance natural light within the building. Various designs and glazing finishes are available, but specifications must align with relevant building regulations.

Edge Protection

Safety is paramount, especially when accessing flat roofs. To ensure safe access for maintenance or emergencies, architects should consider edge protection when designing a flat roof, whether with a designed parapet, guard rail at the roof edge or a permanently protected walkway.

Assessing Refurbishment Needs

Before starting a roof renovation project, thoroughly appraise the existing roof and identify any areas needing repair to unravel the best next steps and approach for remedial actions.

Overlaying Existing Waterproofing

To overlay an existing roof system, the existing waterproofing must be sound and suitable for the new overlay. Ensuring the underlying structure is dry and free from damage is essential for a successful application.

Upgrading Insulation

Enhancing thermal insulation during refurbishment reduces energy consumption and benefits the environment, making it a sensible investment for any building owner.

In summary, flat roofs offer a multitude of advantages and design opportunities. With careful consideration of thermal performance, drainage, fire safety, and access, they can transform new builds and refurbishments into practical and aesthetically pleasing spaces.

Which EPDM System Is Best For My Project?

Which EPDM Roofing System is Right for Your Project?

When choosing a reliable and appropriate roofing material, the pressure is on, especially if you’re trying to work towards a budget. Choosing a material for a flat roof can sometimes be just as tricky, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the different brands and types. With several brands to choose from, how can you tell which one will suit your needs?

In this blog post, we reveal why FlexiProof is a choice that is favoured by many for their EPDM Flat Roof projects.

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FlexiProof: The All-Around Performer

When comparing EPDM options, FlexiProof consistently stands out for its versatility, durability, and ease of installation. Designed to combine the best features of EPDM while addressing common limitations, FlexiProof’s seamless membrane minimises leak points and is engineered for maximum flexibility. This allows it to easily handle temperature shifts and varying roof shapes, ensuring a snug, secure fit. Additionally, FlexiProof requires fewer seams and less adhesive, simplifying the installation process and reducing labour time, making it both efficient and reliable.

FlexiProof is also formulated for UV and weather resistance, offering protection and longevity even in extreme conditions. With its minimal maintenance requirements and extended lifespan, FlexiProof is a cost-effective choice for residential and commercial projects, saving on repairs and upkeep over the years. Its ease of application and reduced installation time make it a go-to option for professionals looking for quality and efficiency.

Common EPDM Roofing Problems

EPDM Common Issues & Solutions

The synthetic rubber membrane, EPDM, boasts a long lifespan and great durability, often lasting up to 50 years with minimal maintenance and covered under a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty. A strong roofing material, the sheet is resistant to environmental factors like UV rays and weathering and has excellent waterproofing abilities. But like all roofing types, it’s not immune to faults or wear and tear, especially if improperly maintained or regularly inspected. Here are a few common problems you can expect with EPDM:

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Ponding water

Ponding water on a flat rubber roof is often improper installation and structure, where the roof is not adequately sloped, which causes water to accumulate and “pool” in certain areas. Not being able to identify the signs of pooling early can be detrimental to the lifespan of your roof as it can accelerate the degradation of the membrane, causing leaks and structural problems. It’s recommended that you carry out regular inspections and maintenance of your flat roof to identify and rectify any of these problems early on to save time and money on bigger repairs later down the line.

Shrinkage

Shrinkage of the membrane typically occurs when, during installation, the membrane was not provided with enough time to “relax” or failed to fully adhere.

On top of this, EPDM rubber can also pull back over time due to ageing, UV exposure, poor maintenance and installation. In the case of the EPDM membrane bubbling, evidence points to improper bonding, where you’ll need to peel back the membrane and reapply it.

Roof leaks

Roof leaks are a problem for any roof and are often a cause for concern on rubber roofs, which haven’t been properly maintained, especially over periods of heavy rainfall.

While EPDM rubber is waterproof and designed to protect your home regardless of the weather conditions, it can be a problem if there’s been inadequate maintenance or installation.

Thankfully, EPDM is easily patched up. See: Flat Roof Extension, Repair and Replacement.

Damaged flashings

Flashing’s job is to keep water away from the parts that are more easily damaged by moisture, hence they act as a seal around vulnerable areas like vent pipes and chimneys. Over time, these flashings can become corroded, damaged or experience failure in their adhesion, which can cause leaks. A professional roofer, however, can easily inspect and replace the worn or damaged flashings.

Or, for example, roofers can use our flashing tape for repairs where extra waterproofing is essential, whether temporarily or permanently. See products.

Incorrect installation

The most common reason for EPDM roofing failures and issues is poor installation. When the membrane has not been properly applied and adhered to the roof substrate, or the seams have been inadequately sealed, then you’re opening your home up to leaks, moisture infiltration and premature roof failure. To avoid this problem completely, ensure you’ve hired an experienced and certified rubber roofing professional, who has a proven track record installing successful EPR membranes.

Please note that installation can fail due to improper sealing or poor seam quality, it’s essential you purchase high-quality EPDM adhesives and primers to successfully connect the individual membrane sheets together. By repairing and replacing faulty seams quickly, you can prevent bigger, more expensive problems. Buy EPDM adhesives.

Punctures and tears

Punctures and tears can happen on a flat roof for various reasons, including foot traffic, sharp objects being dropped on the roof and as simple as falling branches. Again, it’s important to inspect and maintain your roof regularly to remove the build-up of debris, which could cause a tear or puncture to the membrane.

If a puncture or tear exists, it provides an opening for water to penetrate the membrane, which can lead to leaks and possible damage to the underlying roof structure.

Ponding standing water on a flat roof after heavy rain

Avoiding Costly Mistakes: A Guide to Successful Roofing

Avoiding Common Costly Roofing Errors

Planning and designing a roof are one thing, and installing a roof is another. Sometimes, the two go together flawlessly, especially when you involve the right professionals and set aside time. But you wouldn’t be a wise homeowner if you didn’t always plan for problems, too - because they crop up, more often than not. Replacing a roof is no rare exception, so you must budget carefully to avoid costly mistakes not just in the short term but later down the line.

Avoid these common, costly roofing mistakes and be one step closer to a perfect roof and one that never forces you over budget.

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Opting for cheaper, unreliable materials

Not knowing your stuff when it comes to replacing a roof can cost you money now and continuously in the long run.

It’s critical to keep up with modern roofing solutions that can save you money through their properties and longevity instead of opting for cheaper materials that cannot hold up against the elements so well, need to be repaired multiple times, or do nothing to improve the energy efficiency of your property.

Whether your roof is steep or flat will affect the materials and coverings you can choose.

As flat roof material suppliers, we can only advise on the best, most cost-effective material coatings for a flat roof. If you’ve read our blog before, you’ll know EPDM is a top favourite. Thinking of a new roof for a garage, extension, porch or garden shed?

Only consider Flexi Proof one-piece membranes. You could practically install it yourself.

Not planning successfully

If you’re planning for a new roof for the main property, then you’ll have to consider a blueprint and plan that covers drainage, ventilation, and other essential elements only known to architects.

Each home is different, and finding out what works for you both in the short and long term.

You’ll need to ask yourself: Do you want your roof to help you increase the home’s value? How do you want the aesthetics to fit? Is your home’s roof required to blend in with the community? What rules and regulations do you need to follow?

Not inspecting your roof regularly

The most common reason people find themselves with sudden, costly roof repairs is that they don’t expect their roofs regularly.

We don’t recommend anyone hops up on a ladder, but you can visually inspect your roof from the ground. Plus, by ensuring guttering is kept clean and looking out for the signs of storm damage or leaks, you’ll keep up-to-date with your roof and identify issues before they become real problems.

Don’t let slight oversight lead to issues like mould growth, structural damage or leaks in your home.

Address any drainage or ventilation issues immediately and protect your home.

Always take the weather into consideration

Sometimes, we all want the aesthetics of something without always understanding the functionalities of it.

When it comes to a roof, a balance can be achieved, but the functionality cannot always be comprised of aesthetics in areas of adverse weather.

When choosing a roofing material, you need to make sure that it is waterproof and can withstand weather extremes (cold and hot). First, if the roof is flat, it must be waterproof.

But you don’t just have to consider how the weather can affect the structure or materials of your roof.

You also have to factor in the weather when installing the roof, as a spell of bad weather can delay your project and cost you money. If your project is delayed, avoid further disaster by never rushing through it, as it often costs the homeowner in the long run.

Top Facts About Commercial Roofing You Need to Know

As suppliers of long-lasting roofing materials like EPDM, we believe it’s our job to educate our readers, whether they’re homeowners or businesses, on technological advancements in roofing, extending a roof’s longevity, how to maintain one correctly and the cost of implications of choosing the wrong material or contractor.

But you might not realise that commercial roofs do a lot more than protect your assets and shelter your workers from the elements. For example, a well-maintained building is one of the first things a customer will associate with your company and brand just because it sits on top of your building. So, keeping it well-maintained and secure should be a top priority.

To do this, we’ve compiled a guide about the top facts you need to know about commercial roofing today.

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Extending the lifespan of commercial roofs

The longevity of commercial roofs varies widely, depending on the materials used, installation quality, maintenance practices, and local weather conditions. Common materials like EPDM (rubber roofing), TPO, and PVC roofing membranes usually last up to 50 years. However, poor installation or inadequate maintenance can significantly reduce a roof’s lifespan. Just like ignoring problems that require a repair.

The true cost of new commercial roofing

Although the initial expense of a commercial roofing project may appear high, the long-term savings associated with quality materials and professional installation must be considered.

Investing in top-tier materials and skilled labour may have a higher upfront cost, but it minimises the need for frequent repairs and replacements, making better financial sense over time.

Take a look at the most common commercial roof types (in order of price):

Single-ply roofing (TPO, PVC & EPDM roofing)
Modified Bitumen (rubber roofing)
Asphalt shingles (upgraded shingles)
Built-up roof (hot tar roofing)
Metal Roofing (standing seam & screw down)

Maintenance is key

Regular maintenance and timely inspections are essential to extend your commercial roof’s life. Regular maintenance activities like clearing debris, ensuring proper drainage and identifying minor repairs before they become problems can help you prevent more costly issues from arising.

Buy cheap, buy twice

Subpar roofing materials or problematic installations can cause problems, especially in the early days of your new roof. Leaks, structural damage, and a reduced lifespan are all things you must consider when trying to cut corners or opt for cheaper materials or roofers. Today, with DIY installers nationwide, it further highlights the importance of hiring certified roofing contractors. These credible roofing contractors can make the best recommendations and ensure standards that comply with the best industry practices. You can also guarantee the work and obtain manufacturer-guaranteed materials by going with reliable contractors.

The impact of new technology on commercial roofing services

Like any other industry, commercial roofing has recently embraced technological advancements. With relaxing rules and planning permission on solar roofs, for example, more and more commercial venues are integrating solar panels. On top of this, advanced roofing systems like metal roofs are transforming the sector, as well as other materials like rubber.

Green roofs are also growing in popularity due to several benefits, one of which is enhancing urban infrastructure. Not only do these new roofing technologies advance the building’s aesthetics, but they also enhance the environment and offer better financial benefits through energy savings and property value. Learn more about going green, for example.

The evolution of roof materials

Roofing materials have advanced further than traditional options like asphalt or slate. Especially in commercial spaces, roofers are beginning to recommend more efficient, longer-lasting solutions, specifically seen in flat roof applications like single-pry membranes and EPDM.

Keeping up with new trends in roofing materials and launches can help you understand the long-term advantages and make better decisions for your financial future.

Becoming more energy efficient to cut bills

When you choose a roofing material, you don’t want to decide solely based on cost. In reality, you’ll want to decide on a material based on its efficiency, durability, and insulation properties, as it has the potential to lead to substantial energy savings. Certain reflective materials, for example, can significantly reduce cooling costs and, at the same time, minimise heat absorption. Other energy-efficient materials for commercials are rubber membranes and one-piece sheets like EPDM.

How Long Does It Take To Replace a Roof?

Quick Guide to Roof Replacement Timelines

A roof replacement can take anywhere from 3 days to a few weeks - and the timeline will mostly depend on factors like the materials you’re working with, the complexity of the job itself and of course, the weather. The first part of the process is an evaluation by a professional, who will assess the state of your current roof, pinpoint any concerns and identify how long it will take to remove your old roof and begin installing the new one.

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Average estimates for replacing a roof

When replacing a roof, you typically have to factor in removing the old roof. Depending on certain factors, this typically takes between 1 and 3 days. You can expect 1-3 days to install the new roof.

More complex roof systems that feature steep slopes might take a bit longer. However, the average duration is 2 days when replacing a flat roof.

Here’s a breakdown:

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According to this roofer, the average time for removing and replacing a single garage roof is approximately.

What will impact the duration of your roof replacement:

The weather plays a big role—your project can continue immediately when it's good. However, rain, snow, or even extreme heat can cause delays. Contractors usually work best in dry and mild weather.
The bigger the roof, the bigger and the longer the replacement will take. You’ll also have to consider the design of the roof, as a simple flat roof is the quickest to replace, and roofs featuring steep slopes and angles will take longer. Types of roofs.
Having the material ahead of time means you can reduce the time it takes to replace the roof. If you opt for traditional materials like shingles or tiles, there can sometimes be a delay or a wait, as opposed to materials like single-ply EPDM. Remember, custom orders have longer lead times.

Take note that permits might also cause a delay

When replacing a roof, a permit is often necessary to ensure the project meets local building codes—the contractor usually handles this side.

However, understanding the requirements can help you better understand the timescale.

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Green Roofs and the Future of Urban Green Infrastructure

The Future of Roofs is Green

The rise of green roofs and urban green infrastructure is on the rise – and it’s not just an architectural trend that’s taken off.

By 2050, the global population will have increased to almost 10 billion; in London alone, the population is estimated to increase by a further 3 million. This means the subsequent increase in demand for infrastructure requires more thought to preserve and maintain the natural environment and, thus, the health and well-being of urban residents.

Research provided by Livingroofs.org has shown the first national picture of the market for green roofs and what can be done throughout the UK, not just in the cities, to encourage green infrastructure.

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What are green roofs?

Green roofs are roofs with plants growing on top. Often referred to as vegetated roofs, they consist of a roofing system with a layer of living plants planted on top of the waterproofing membrane.

The aesthetic benefits of green roofs are obvious, but there’s much more to them than that.

Adopting and installing a green roof activates the roof by allowing it to save energy (and costs), manage stormwater, reduce noise levels, and improve biodiversity.

Green roofs also provide a good environment for personal well-being and social interaction, all while offering a sustainable design.

Important for climate resilience

Roofs represent about 20–25% of the total urban surface area.
But we’re not making the most out of roofs, yet.

Over the last several years, the market for green roofs has increased.

There was a 17% increase from 2015 to 2016, especially as green roofs have become increasingly prevalent in urban design to achieve climate resilience. The rise of green roofs also shows how the UK is beginning to change its behaviour and adapt to climate change.

London is one area driving the growth. Research shows that nearly 42% of the market is within the Greater London Authority area. We recently saw an example of this with the Old Street roundabout renovation.

The main reason for this growth, though, is London’s distinct policy for green roofs within the London Plan, making it one of the green roof capitals in the world, even if the nation doesn’t quite realise it yet.

The market over the next two years

The Green Roof market in the UK continues to expand significantly
Risen from 1.17 million square metres in 2015 to 2.15 million square metres by 2019
Potential growth of a further 20% by 2025

Green roofing contractors are about to get very busy, with predictions that the market will expand to 300 million square metres over the next two years.

Bringing benefits not just to the environment but also to the economy.

For example, green roofs can increase the lifespan of a roof membrane by protecting it from extreme temperatures or UV rays.

They also reduce heating and cooling, lowering homeowners’ energy bills. Not to mention the increase in value of their property, as green roofs have become a popular attraction for potential buyers and tenants.

Installing a green roof

One important factor to consider when considering a green roof is choosing the right waterproof membrane to support it and ensure its effectiveness and longevity.

As suppliers of rubber roof materials, we know EPDM is the best membrane for a green, sedum, or living roof, as it provides the perfect growing platform for wildflowers and other vegetation.

Roof Rubber EPDM Membrane Installation Close Up.

How Much Does Flat Roof Replacement Cost?

2024 Guide to Flat Roof Costs & Fees

As a company that sells flat roof materials like EPDM and installation tools, who better to reveal the costs of a flat roof replacement than us, and who deals with flat roof replacements daily?

So, seeing that the cost mostly depends on the size of your roof and project or the type of flat roof material you choose, we thought we’d help you understand the question and break down the costs involved with repairing or replacing your flat roof. From cost examples to the best types of flat roofing systems, we’ll cover every base so you know how much to budget. If you plan to replace your flat roof with EPDM, use our online calculator to calculate the costs.

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Factors that affect your flat roof cost

When estimating the price of your flat roof, you’ll need to consider factors like coverings, materials, equipment, labour, and more.

Costs depend on:

The flat roofing materials and system you choose
How accessible your roof is to reach
The area size of your flat roof (in M2)
Where in the UK your project is taking place (some areas are more expensive)
The roofing company you choose to install, or whether you plan on DIY
The removal of your old flat roof cost, and the disposal of materials and waste

The most cost-effective flat roof replacement cost

Many roofing companies across the UK choose single-ply because of its flexibility, durability, low maintenance needs, and overall price.

S ingle-ply membranes like EPDM are great for all applications and projects, from new builds to extensions to garages and sheds.

Flexible PVC sheets are manufactured from mainly synthetic polymers, making them seamless and waterproof. They are also easy to install as they are laid down in sheets.

Costs, though, can depend on whether they are applied warm or cold. On average, they cost from £60 per m2.

Take a look at our shop for one-piece EPDM membranes, which cost £9.49 per sqm.

Is it cheaper to repair?

It's practically impossible to give accurate figures without seeing your roof or knowing its measurements. Sometimes, you might require a roof repair rather than a flat roof replacement. Typical roof repairs are necessary when there’s a leak, internal damage, water pooling, etc, but if you’ve ignored these problems for too long or they keep recurring, it might just be time for a replacement. Depending on the scale of your problem, a flat roof repair can cost from £150 to £1,000.

Replacing a flat roof with felt cost

The cost of a felt flat roof replacement will depend on the roof size. Often, roofers recommend against using felt for larger roof areas and instead recommend a single-ply system. A felt roof costs from £1,200 to £12,000, so getting several quotes is important first. On average, the cost of felt per m2 is around £80-120.

Liquid flat roof replacement cost

Liquid systems are typically cold-applied, waterproof, and feature seamless fittings. They are typically used on balconies, walkways, high-trafficked areas, roof terraces, and extensions. On average, costs per m2 are between £100 and £150, making it one of the most expensive flat roof replacement options.

Green roof replacement cost

Green roofs are eco-friendly living systems that blend nature with manmade structures. They can improve the aesthetics of your property and its thermal and acoustic performance.

However, as there are many green roof options, it can be hard to set an exact price. However, the cost per m2 will range from £80 to £140.

Again, this will entirely depend on the roof size, specifications, and the type and amount of vegetation.

Planning Permission No Longer Required for Solar on Flat-roof Homes

The Planning Rules for Solar Panels Has Been Relaxed

In late 2023, as part of the government’s plan to boost solar panel installations across the UK, permitted development rights were extended for property owners looking to install flat roofs. If you’re a homeowner in England, Wales, and Scotland, you can install solar photovoltaic PV panels without planning permission.

However, it doesn’t just extend to homeowners; as part of the confirmation, the government also eradicated the 1MV capacity restriction, which previously meant that businesses had to apply for planning permission if the solar panels they installed generated over 1MW of electricity.

The changes align with the government’s broader efforts to speed up the planning process, as seen in the recently introduced Levelling Up and Regeneration Act.

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Changes to the law

Announced by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on the 30th of November 2023, the changes to development right rules were made in the hopes of slashing the waiting times for rooftop solar installations that were previously delayed by the planning system – a wait which usually included additional costs and was more than 8 weeks. So the changes to the planning system hope to encourage more people to install solar panels in their homes as a result.

In addition to eliminating long wait times and encouraging widespread adoption of solar panels in the UK, the revised regulations also promise to help property owners reduce their energy bills and contribute to reducing their carbon footprint and harmful emissions.

The industry supports the decision as a no-brainer

Solar Power Portal received comments from Energy Security and Net Zero Minister Graham Stuart MP, who added that the move will help the UK reach its 70GW by 2035 solar target and support long-term skilled jobs. Housing and Planning Minister Lee Rowley MP also said the move amounts to “cutting red tape in the planning system,” removing costly delays for those looking to install solar panels and benefit from cheap renewable energy. as reported by Solar Power Portal.

Also commenting on the announcement, Solar Energy UK chief executive Chris Hewett said: “The potential of installing solar power on large commercial rooftops is vast, its prospective capacity having been estimated at 15GW across the country. “So eliminating one of the stumbling blocks on the way to fulfilling that opportunity is extremely welcome. It will help to make British businesses more competitive by slashing energy bills, bolstering the economy and pushing us further towards net zero.

Solar panels won’t be permitted everywhere, however

Even with the new changes, these permitted development rights will still be subject to conditions.

For example, “If your property is in a conservation area, panels must not be fitted to a wall which fronts a highway. This includes roads, paths, and public rights of way.” Read more exceptions and conditions here.

Is it worth installing solar panels on a flat roof?

Solar panels can be successfully installed on a flat roof, as the minimal slope will accommodate solar PV panel systems.

However, to do so will take a little more consideration. To maximise efficiency, you might need a mounting system to tilt the panels towards the sun at the right angle. A creditable and reliable installer can help with this.

Use the solar.com marketplace to find one, or calculate the costs here first.