Homeowners might be tempted to convert their flat roof into a terrace, but they have been warned they need to apply for planning permission first. 

There is certainly a big temptation to step out of your window onto a roof terrace if that is the only place you have to enjoy the spring sunshine, but chartered town planner Martin Gaine told the Daily Mail this could cause disruption to neighbours, as well as potentially be quite dangerous. 

Firstly, sitting on a roof terrace in built-up areas means residents will be looking into the gardens of neighbouring properties, or even into their windows, invading their privacy. 

Additionally, they can cause problems with noise, particularly on quiet summer nights when sound can travel far. 

“For these reasons, the planning system is generally quite hostile to informal roof terraces on standard terraced or semi-detached houses,” he stated.

They can also be dangerous as the roof was unlikely built to sustain the weight of several people, as well as chairs and tables. 

“The roof was probably not designed to hold their weight and the absence of railings around the edges makes it unsafe,” Mr Gaine commented. 

If the flat roof is over someone else’s property, residents climbing on to it will be trespassing, thereby breaking the law. 

Homeowners who are keen to fit a roof that is strong enough to hold more weight should seek advice from flat roof specialists in Stockport, who can let them know their options.