Check permission before committing
The lease, freeholder or management company may control changes to external walls and communal areas. Planning or listed-building considerations may also apply depending on the property and proposed position.
Approval should be obtained in writing where required. An installer can provide equipment data and a proposed layout, but cannot grant permission on behalf of the property owner or authority.
Outdoor positions can be limited
Balconies, roofs, service areas and external walls each raise different questions about airflow, sound, appearance, support and maintenance access. Equipment should not be hidden in an enclosure that prevents correct operation.
Neighbour impact and building access need consideration. High-level work, communal routes or restricted working hours may affect feasibility and cost.
Plan drainage and routes carefully
Condensate must discharge safely without affecting lower properties or communal areas. Pipework and cabling should follow an approved, serviceable route with penetrations agreed in advance.
Where an outdoor system is not permitted, a different comfort approach may be needed. The survey should establish feasibility before promising a particular solution.