Space you already own
Many properties have small enclosed yards or courtyards, such as the area between a rear kitchen and boundary wall, or the gap between a main house and an outbuilding. Roofing over such a space can create a utility room, kitchen extension, dining area or storage, without enlarging the footprint of the building.
What to consider
- Daylight: enclosing a courtyard can remove light from adjoining rooms, so rooflights or glazed roofs often form part of the design
- Ventilation: windows or vents to adjoining rooms must still work, and the new space needs its own ventilation
- Walls: existing external walls were not built to be internal, so they may need damp proofing, insulation and repairs
- Drainage: gullies, manholes and rainwater pipes in the courtyard need to be dealt with, see underground drainage repairs
- Floor: a damp-proof, insulated floor at the right level
- Roof: structure, insulation, drainage and junctions with surrounding walls
How we approach it
The existing walls and floor are surveyed, including damp readings and the condition of the brickwork. Flat roofs or glazed roofs are the usual choices, supported on new beams where spans are large, see steel beam installation. Roof junctions with surrounding walls require proper flashings and upstands, see flat roof upstands and abutments and lead flashings. External walls that become internal walls may need repointing or surface treatment, and old windows may become internal windows or be filled in.
Tyneside layouts
Terraced houses in Newcastle and Tynemouth often have a rear yard with an outhouse or return, and a narrow side passage. Tyneside flats may share yards, which raises questions about ownership. Check deeds and leases before planning.
Permissions
Enclosing a courtyard changes the building, so it may need planning permission, particularly in a conservation area or where the courtyard is shared. Building Regulations will apply to structure, fire safety, drainage, ventilation and insulation. Party wall rules may apply if the courtyard walls are shared. See the Planning Portal and GOV.UK. For larger additions, see house extensions.
Frequently asked questions
Will enclosing my courtyard make nearby rooms dark?
It can, which is why rooflights or glazed roofs are often included. The design should keep as much daylight as practical for adjoining rooms.
Is planning permission always needed?
Not always, but it often is, particularly in conservation areas or where the courtyard is shared. Check with your council or the Planning Portal before committing to a design.
