Do you need permission to install solar panels?

Solar PV can be installed on most homes under permitted development rules which means you do not need permission before installing a solar PV system. However this isn’t the case if you wish to install solar panels on listed buildings, heritage properties or properties situated within a conservation area.

Can you install solar panels on listed buildings?

If you own a listed property you will need to consult LBC (Local Building Control) before installing solar panels as you may need to obtain listed building consent.

Can you install solar panels in a conservation area?

Conservation Officers have historically refused permission for installation of solar PV on heritage properties, properties in conservation areas and listed properties. However, with the UK government recently setting ambitious climate change targets, Conservation Officers are being forced to accept the need for change and find ways around their outdated ways of thinking!

The rooftop revolution for the heritage buildings sector

Technology has dramatically shifted in recent years. Modern solar PV systems provide recessed designs which are sympathetic and sleek in appearance. Meaning solar PV on heritage properties is no longer the ‘eye sore’ it used to be!

Conservation roof lights set a precedent for solar PV on heritage properties

Fully integrated solar PV systems now come with recessed flashings. The flashings are dark grey or black, and the panels and the frames can be black as well. So if a Conservation Officer would have normally approved several recessed conservation rooflights, thereby setting a precedent in an area, then there is now absolutely no reason not to approve a fully integrated solar PV System with all black panels.

Meeting climate change targets with solar PV on heritage properties

The UK Government needs to Meet the Net Zero 2050 Obligation for carbon emissions (and it is currently well behind the curve to meet this obligation). With such a vast amount of property in the UK being heritage, listed or in a conservation area, there is added pressure on Conservation Officers in Local Government to re think their decisions and start to allow sympathetically designed Solar PV systems to be integrated into the roofs of such properties.

In response to concerns regarding problematic steps in applying for consent and the lack of permissible energy performance solutions for listed and heritage properties, recent correspondence from the RT Hon Christopher Pincher MP, Minister of State for Housing, states the following:

“The Government is fully committed to encouraging homeowners to incorporate energy efficiency measures in their properties in order to tackle climate change. As part of this, we recognise the need to ensure that more historic buildings have the right energy efficiency measures to support our zero carbon objectives.

In our recently published ‘Planning for the Future’ White Paper we have therefore committed to reviewing and updating the framework for listed buildings and conservation areas, to ensure their significance is conserved whilst allowing, where appropriate, sympathetic changes to support their continued use and address climate change. “

Re-roofing provides a cost effective opportunity to install solar PV

Installing integrated solar PV on heritage properties is also not as expensive as you might think! Once you offset the cost of sourcing and replacing slate you could find that installing solar on your heritage property actually costs you very little at all!

A lot of heritage, listed and conservation properties in the UK are in need of roof replacement. This provides a cost effective opportunity to install solar PV for the following reasons:

You don’t need to source and purchase as much slate. For example, if a heritage roof with 100 square metres of roof slate is being removed but only 80 square metres of slate is reusable and 20 square metres is defective, integrating 12 solar PV panels which cover 20 square meters will ensure you have enough slate to re-roof the property without having to source replacement slates.
Following on from the example above. Hunting salvage yards for matching reclaimed slate can be time consuming and costly. Substituting defective slate for solar panels cuts labour costs on sourcing replacement slate and travelling time to collect replacement slate. Searching reclamation yards for a match can be time consuming. Matching reclaimed slate can typically cost £110 per square metre. Add to this the cost of the added labour of searching, wasted milage, locating, loading, traveling, delivery to site, then hoisting to roof level and you could easily add another £100 per square metre to the cost! So the total cost of replacing defective slate could easily add up to £4200 for a 20 square metre area of roof.
When you then consider that the current average cost of purchasing 12 x 320 watts, black solar PV panels is around the £4000-£4500 mark then it’s easy to see why installing solar become an attractive alternative to sourcing and installing reclaimed slate! In the above example you could quite easily find yourself in a cost neutral position. I say cost neutral because you are swapping the need to source 20 square metres of secondhand reclaimed slates and the labour of installing them versus a brand new 20 square metre fully integrated and recessed solar PV system on your roof generating electricity from the natural occurring daylight.
Your 20 square metre solar PV system could produce around 3000 KWH of electric per year. This could be used to power appliances in your home or you could save it in a hybrid battery storage system for use later. At a current electricity price of 17p per KWH, your Solar PV power plant is producing around £500 worth of electric that you could utilise in your heritage property.
There is also a another huge bonus! The Solar PV cells in the solar panels generally perform at above 80% of their original efficiency for 25 years +. So as electricity prices rise each year the yeald that your solar system is producing is increasing year on year.
Using an electricity price increase year on year of 6.9% then in 12 years you could be looking at an electricity price of 34p. If that were the case your solar PV system should be producing around £1000 worth of electricity. And in 24 years at a price of 68p it should be producing around £2000 worth of electricity.

You can find our more about solar PV pricing in our Solar PV and Battery Storage Pricing Guide.

       EXCELLENT  
   Based on 70 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bryony Wilson 
 22 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Adam the team leader was extremely hard working and managed to complete the some what complex repairs to the roof of our grade 2* listed commercial property on schedule despite the other member of the team not being available quite a few days, he even came in on a Saturday to make sure it was finished on time, he was very informative, taking time to explain any issues and the techniques he was using, including allowing me access to the roof to see problems for myself. When finishes the site was left clean and tidy. Green and Heritage roofing have been very professional from first consultation to completion of the project, I would highly recommend them.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   John Max 
 29 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic roof installation service in Devon and Hampshire. Professional team, great communication, tidy work, and excellent results. Highly recommended
  
 
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   Emma Warren 
 20 May 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Green and Heritage have recently replaced our roof and we cannot recommend them enough. From start to finish, Chris, Adam and the whole team have been very professional and have gone the extra mile to provide an excellent service. Thank you all.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mary Wallace 
 20 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chris, Kieran and Helen were brilliant at managing what was a tricky project and keeping me informed every step of the way. The team delivered excellent quality workmanship and did a great job putting a new slate roof, insulation and guttering on my GII listed house. Very pleased with the result and the professional process throughout.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Gillian Robinson 
 11 March 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is an efficient professional roofing firm who know what they are doing. They are good at planning and communicating with you about timings.
  
 
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   Matthew Driver 
 7 January 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Cracking job on our grade 2. Full of spray foam with no barrier to the stone slates. Truly horrible job. Adam was a real superstar, worked very hard almost entirely single handed. Very pleasant and polite throughout the whole job, clean and tidy every day, which was quite amazing given the state of it. We're going to miss Adam being around, a truly amazing chap and excellent workmanship. This old house is finally dry and warm. Thanks for all of your advice Chris before our journey began. No other roofing company could have done more. Fabulous people, fabulous job.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   X J 
 3 December 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The whole team Chris and his hardworking team, Kieran and Kyle did a fantastic job, showing me videos and photos of their work as it went along. They were extremely patient when I asked questions. Special mention for Kieran who replaced an outside pipe for me, powering through a hurricane to do it. They cleared up fully afterwards and even sent a window cleaner to do my windows afterwards. Cannot recommend Green and Heritage highly enough. There are a lot of cowboy roofers out there but G&H provided detailed quotes, insurance cover while working and a guarantee for their work. Thanks to all at G&H.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Glenda Wray 
 28 October 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From start to finish we were very happy with all aspects of the service from Green and Heritage, and would happily recommend this company. Firstly, Chris came to assess and quote for a full re-roof including insulation on the stone slate roof of our detached house in Steeton, plus resurfacing in lead of two bay window roofs. Chris immediately had detailed answers for all the things we needed sorting out. The detailed quotes followed soon after this visit, and were very professional, with everything we had asked for taken on board. This added to our conviction that this was the right company for us. Once work commenced in August 2025, we were soon able to relax and let Adam and his team get on with the job, knowing that our roof was in good hands! Adam is very experienced and very committed to his work. He takes a real interest in the property he’s working on, and liaised with us whenever choices and decisions were needed. He works exceptionally hard and ensures that his labourer learns all about the trade. We found both Adam and his labourer to be polite and friendly throughout. Chris visited regularly during the project and discussed the next steps with Adam. There is obvious respect between Chris and his employees. Also, importantly, the scaffolder he uses also expressed his respect for Chris and the company, which translates into Chris getting good service from the other contractors he uses. Finally, Helen was extremely efficient and pleasant with all the admin tasks required to complete this project.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Richard Bunzl 
 21 October 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Green and Heritage Roofing demonstrated very good planning and advice on our re-roof, and the final result is excellent.  The team showed real care and attention to detail, making sure I knew what was happening, and the job wasn't signed off until we were absolutely happy with it.  The team worked really hard, and took real pride in doing a good job.  Thank you.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Craig Patton 
 29 September 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had Green and Heritage in to repair a leaky roof and they've done a fantastic job re-laying my roof & solar panels, would definitely recommend them.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Matthew Brown 
 27 August 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional service from start to finish.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Doodly Doo 
 20 August 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been using Chris and his team for my roof.To be very fair Chris has been excellent at responding.We have had an issue which needs rectifying but Chris has been on the ball after I contacted him (which i was getting myself into a panic about contacting him again)and he has swiftly sent the scaffolders out ready to get the issue sorted.Excellent service and yes I would definitely recommend the company.Many thanks Karen........ Update Absolutely outstanding work from Kieran this week,he explains everything,keeps you updated and has literally worked his socks off.He cares about his work and his customers and is extremely polite clean and tidy.Thank you so much for all your extremely hard work this week.Karen
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Anthony Bolland 
 6 August 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Would highly recommend Green & Heritage. Good communication from Chris and the team working on the roof did a great job and were friendly and polite.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lorraine Chatterton 
 28 July 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently used Green and Heritage Roofing to complete the works at Pabla + Pabla Solicitors, and the whole experience was excellent from start to finish. Chris was professional and helpful throughout, always keeping us informed and making the process smooth. Adam, who carried out the work with Tyne was fantastic. They were extremely hardworking and did a brilliant job. They were very polite with all staff and always worked with us to ensure staff could utilise as much of the car park as possible. The quality of the work is exceptional, and we’re really pleased with the results. Highly recommended Lorraine Chatterton Practice Manager Didsbury Manchester
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jane Firm 
 15 July 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have had the team from the Green and Heritage Roofing Ltd working at The Clock Tower, Menston, for several months, they recently finishing their works. They have been excellent throughout their time working here, they being very considerate to all the residents, whilst also doing a first class job in repairing and replacing the roof of a very old building. At all times, they had the residents concerns and views at the forefront of their works. I cannot speak highly enough for the way they have worked and conducted themselves throughout, and I know all the residents were extremely pleased with them. I have spoken to Kieron, who led the team, and Chris, who is the "boss" passing on my and the other residents thanks, and I would highly recommend the Green and Heritage " team" to everybody who needs this type of work doing, knowing you will get a " first class job done" !!! So a big thank you to all the team, as you really showed how such difficult works should be carried out, showing total respect for all the residents whilst also doing a first class job!! Thank You !! Neil Firm
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Simon Barker 
 21 April 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very efficient and well managed project to repair my roof and fit solar. Thanks to Chris and Adam for their hard work.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jeremy Conway 
 14 April 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have recently had my home re-roofed by Green and Heritage Roofing Ltd. The work was completed on time and with excellent professionalism. I would specifically mention the excellent team who did the work. They were hard working, considerate, polite, and explained to me throughout the job any issues or challenges they were working through. Thankfully these were not significant but this gave me reassurance that the quality of their work was everything I wanted. I would fully recommend them.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Cliff Hilton 
 10 April 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have an apartment in a Grade 2 listed building. Green and Heritage and in particular Keiran and team have been working on the building for the last few weeks each of them displaying a great work ethic. They are obviously very skilled and knowledgeable in this type of work, they have a strict methodology and it has been an absolute pleasure to see them working so hard to renovate the roof above us and the surrounding roofs to our neighbours apartments and houses. Our grateful thanks go to the team and to Green and Heritage Roofing Ltd.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Joseph Mallalieu 
 1 April 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am very happy with the service provided by Chris and Green and Heritage. From the initial quotation through to the work itself and the subsequent paperwork (invoices, guarantees, building regs etc.) communication has been excellent. We had a small but complex slate roof on a mid-terrace that was replaced, insulation installed, repairs to the chimney, a new velux, and anti nesting spikes installed. Chris took time to talk us through all the options and costs, and his team (Kieran, Ryan and Kyle) were extremely professional and courteous throughout the work, taking time to consult with us on progress as and when required. Our new roof looks very smart. Very highly recommended!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Phillipa Davies 
 8 February 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The work carried out by everyone at Green and Heritage roofing has been fantastic.  From the initial survey onward.  Kieran and Kyle were the roofing team and were an absolute credit to the firm.  They work extremely hard and did not leave until late.  They checked with us and made sure that all of the work was what we expected.  They also showed us before and after and installed bar tiles and heritage lead work.  This was a huge flagged roof and they kept the slight dip that has been there at our request, this was a very heavy roof.  These two are a credit to the company. Chris planned the job down to the last day, again checked and worked with us all of the work was done without a break and in challenging conditions.  They also cleared and put a new flag roof on a smaller building. A fantastic team, the roofs are amazing and I cannot recommend this firm highly enough.  This is what craftsmanship looks like.  Thank you all.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Elizabeth Yeowart-Montgomery 
 26 January 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From start to finish, the team were excellent. Adam led the project and he did so with politeness and efficiency. He was here rain or shine by 8am and he worked most Saturdays to ensure the project was finished in time (3-4 months in total). Adam, Callum and the other guys tidied up after themselves every day and never asked for anything. They invited us up onto the roof on many occasions to show us the progress. It was a VERY expensive project because of the size and shape of the roof and chimneys so we were very mindful of choosing a company that could do what was required, particularly because our house is Grade 2 listed. I recommend Green and Heritage 100%. We are very happy indeed with the finished roof.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Rotorgraph Surveys Ltd 
 17 December 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent Company to work with…! We were approached by Chris & Helen looking to obtain high quality photography and videography of a recent roofing project they’ve successfully completed in Bingley, West Yorkshire. After a very quick consultation it was clear they had thought through their brief which was understandable and therefore very quickly turned around within days. We hope the images and videography we’ve provided along with what was a very professional roofing finish helps them obtain the awards they deserve. Payment for our services was settled within minutes of us issuing our invoice. Heritage and Green are the type of clients you want to keep coming back time and time again. We provide Drone Roof Inspections and Chartered Surveyor - Roof Condition Reports and I can say had on heart that their work is exemplary and what’s more when I met their client onsite to obtain permission for both take off and landing - he only had great things to say. That is why it’s important I share this knowledge in the hope someone reading this needing to find that needle in an haystack need look no further. Kind Regards Gary Brown - Director Rotorgraph Surveys Ltd
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Richard Paciukanis 
 12 October 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would like to thank Chris and his team especially Kieran and Kyle for doing a great job re-roofing my property,they were here early every day and really got stuck in,any problems which arose where photographed and shown to me,so that i new they would be corrected,all in all a great job.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Pete Fox 
 13 September 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +3
From start to finish Green Heritage Roofing are the most professional company I have worked with in forty years of home improvements. From the quality of Chris’s detailed quotation, the incredibly hard working and skilled roofers Kieran and Ryan, the management of technical problems found with the roof, Helen’s communication, invoicing and documentation, and Chris’s patience answering my question, the experience has been superb throughout. Thank you.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   gerald Sutton 
 8 August 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We needed a full roof refurb, looking on-line we settled on Green & Heritage based on the reviews and that we wanted solar panels fitted at the same time, most roofers will not fit solar to stone roofs. The whole experience was a joy working with an incredibly professional team both through the quotation process and the work. The on-site team did an excellent job and kept us informed at all stages with a daily de-brief at the end of every day, they worked long days and kept everything clean and tidy throughout. Great experience throughout and the quality of the workmanship second to none. We would highly recommend them.    Many thanks to the team at Green & Heritage
  
 
 
  
 
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Solar PV on heritage properties? Can you or can’t you?

Do you need permission to install solar panels?

Can you install solar panels on listed buildings?

Can you install solar panels in a conservation area?

The rooftop revolution for the heritage buildings sector

Conservation roof lights set a precedent for solar PV on heritage properties

Meeting climate change targets with solar PV on heritage properties

Re-roofing provides a cost effective opportunity to install solar PV

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