There are approximately half a million listed homes in the UK, all of which are subject to strict regulations on planning and alterations. While the majority of buyers enter listed property ownership with their eyes open to these issues, it is The Listed Property Owners’ Club’s mission to help our members navigate these restrictions in the context of their own homes and renovation projects.

We don’t believe that buildings are listed to be fossilised. Sensitive alterations and extensions can help buildings adapt to serve new purposes and support modern lifestyles. Well considered conservation and alteration proposals can add to and sustain our heritage for this and future generations.

The Listed Property Owners’ Club is here to advise potential and current owners so their listed building renovation projects run smoothly.

 

Obtaining the appropriate permissions and expert advice

Listed building consent is required for all demolition, alteration or extension which affect the special architectural or historic character of a listed building or a curtilage listed building. Some projects will also require planning permission and building regulation approval as well as listed building consent. Applications are made to the local planning authority who will expect the applicant to demonstrate that the special character and significance of the listed building will not be harmed. All but minor applications are likely to require the services of an architect or surveyor. Details of how to apply, application forms and guidance notes on the level of information that is required to accompany an application are available on the council’s website or on the national Planning Portal. Local authorities aim to make a decision within 8 weeks.

Some homeowners may be able to arrange pre-application discussions with their local authorities before embarking on a formal application. This can be a hugely helpful in understanding the issues and reducing the possibility of delays and disappointment later down the processing line – do be aware however that some local councils now charge for this service, however large or small the query.

Our team of experts includes in-house Conservation Advisors who are available for similar discussions and is all included within the membership fee. They can act as impartial sounding boards operating on the basis of “if it was on my patch I would suggest”. This is a very popular service offered by the Club and provides owners the opportunity of getting totally independent advice from conservation professionals.

We will also be able to put you in touch with trusted, experienced architects who will be able to advise you on how best to design and present your project.

When choosing an architect and tradesmen for your project, is it vital to work with ones that understands listed properties and how best to sensitively develop them for 21^st Century living. For a list of conservation architects and skilled tradesmen, please visit our Suppliers Directory.

 

Using the right materials for your listed building repair

Serious damage has been caused in the past by the indiscriminate use of inappropriate materials for restoration and conservation work to listed buildings. The wrong materials can be visually damaging but they can also cause damp problems and result in rapid deterioration and decay of important historic fabric.

Understanding why some modern materials are incompatible traditional buildings is important. They can dramatically affect the building’s ability to regulate moisture levels, and in some cases can cause significant damage to structural components.

 

Don’t start a period property renovation without proper insurance

If you decide to take on the responsibility of owning and renovating a listed building, make sure that you are supported and covered by comprehensive listed building insurance. It is important to find a policy which will cover you both during the renovation and after, so that if there are any issues with the work carried out, you and your property are protected. Taking the time to select the right contractors and suppliers will, of course, reduce the chance of any issues occurring during your period of ownership, and hopefully long into the future.

The sooner you are able to notify your insurance provider of any plans to renovate your heritage building, the better. Once you have obtained all the necessary permissions, make sure that you supply your insurer with a copy of the proposed contract and any relevant liability insurance documents. If the worst does happen, it’s reassuring to know that you will receive the compensation necessary to restore you home.

If you would like to find out more about the insurance requirements of your listed building renovation, call us today on 01795 844939, or email insurance@lpoc.co.uk