Heritage Property Preservation

Frequently Asked Questions

How often is maintenance required on listed buildings?

Owners of listed properties are required to carry out routine maintenance work to upkeep the property. As mentioned above if you use skilled craftsman with like for like materials you will not need planning for this work. But if you fail to maintain the building to an acceptable standard your local council have the right to intervene. In addition to this routine maintenance is more cost effective than future remedial works should the property be allowed to decay.

Do I need listed building consent?

It depends on your project. If you are looking to carry out routine works of maintenance using original materials, like for like, you do not need consent. However, You will need listed building consent if you plan to demolish a listed building or you wish to extend or make alterations to a building which could affect its original character or historical interest. You can find more information on https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200126/applications/60/consent_types/7

How do I apply for listed building consent?

The first port of call to apply for listed building consent is to speak to your local authority as it may be possible to download the relevant forms online or fill them in online. If you are unsure whether your project requires consent please call our team to discuss on 01525 838202.

What is the difference between Grade I, Grade II* & Grade II?

Grade I buildings category covers a very small percentage of buildings. These buildings usually hold historic or exceptional architectural interest.

Grade II listed buildings are deemed to have a particular merit such as exceptional exterior.

Grade II listed buildings category covers the majority of listed buildings and they are of special interest.

Should I use a lime based render?

The simple answer is yes. If you are repairing a historic building using a lime render will allow the property to breathe. Therefore preventing damp and rot to the structure of the property in a way a concrete render would not accommodate for.

Why is my property damp?

There are many causes of damp to your property, the most common reason is poor maintenance. Poorly maintained gutters and drainage pipes seem harmless but these can cause concentrated leakage points. A lack of ventilation can also cause damp or even the ground level outside.

There are three different kinds of damp, rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation. It is vital that you diagnose the problem properly before you begin any work

See https://content.historicengland.org.uk/images-books/publications/guide-for-owners-of-listed-buildings/guide-for-owners-listed-buildings.pdf/ for more information.

Need Help?

If you have not found the answer you are looking for or want more information on any of our services please do not hesitate to contact the team. We are happy to support and advise you on the preservation of your historic building.