Renovating a listed building can be a stressful process to get started on. If you’re not aware of the rules and regulations surrounding your property it can be incredibly difficult to know where to start, and what to look for.

What is a Listed Building?

A listed building is a building or structure which has been noted of national importance due to either its architectural or historic interest to the country, with Historic England approximating that there are over 400,000 listed buildings in England. 

The reason behind listed buildings is to help protect buildings that demonstrate our cultural heritage, and serve as evidence of the past, making it important that the historic integrity of these buildings are not damaged by new works.

What permissions do I need to renovate my listed building?

All listed buildings require listed building consent prior to undertaking any works to the building. This planning control ensures no work is being done that will affect the characteristics of the building that have awarded it a listed status. 

As well as listed building consent, listed buildings are often more likely to require planning permission where it may not be required on other buildings, so it is worth enlisting the right professional to help advise you on your renovations. 

Consult the right professionals 

It’s always important to hire the right professional when undertaking work on your property, however there are a number of reasons why finding the right fit is even more important when it comes to listed buildings. 

While there are many construction companies that are willing to undertake a wide range of works, undertaking specialists in heritage construction and restoration will give you the peace of mind that everything is being done to the highest quality and traditional methods, while also of course remaining fully compliant. 

Companies who specialise in this area are also able to point you in the right direction for other professionals you may need on the project. Through their years of experience within the industry, companies that specialise in the heritage and restoration field know quality when they see it, so their recommendations are truly worthwhile. Whether that’s sourcing the right materials, other kinds of works, the correct council contacts, or the perfect architect for your chosen project work. 

Work with clear communicators

Because your building is listed, you may not be able to achieve the very first vision of your property.

This is why it’s important you work with people who are clear communicators, who can take on board your wishes and explain exactly what is possible for you and your property. 

Working with people who understand your plans, and are able to work with you to create the perfect plan for your project whilst still being fully compliant with consent and regulations are ideal for these kinds of works, as it means you have a clear idea of what your final result will look like, all the while understanding why compromises may be needed to get to that shared end goal of creating your dream property. 

Think about what is best for your property 

Ultimately, listed buildings are protected to uphold the historic and architectural elements of the property, yet this doesn’t automatically mean you are completely restricted in what you can do.

When it comes down to it, there are an abundance of changes you can make to the building that both match the desired result for you and are in keeping with the rules. 

When planning your renovation, it is important to keep your building in mind in the context of its historic or architectural characteristics. Once you truly understand the history and specific characteristics that make your building so special, it will become easier to plan exactly what you want to achieve, while also keeping your building protected. 

By understanding the specific history of your building, and working with the right team to bring your visions to life, you will likely gain a new appreciation for your property, which could even bring new ideas for your renovation to light.

Still not sure where to start? 

At CG, we pride ourselves on our commitment to upkeeping the integrity of traditional and heritage buildings across Yorkshire, while simultaneously bringing in modern elements that make a property truly individual.

Our team has a wide range of specialties which enables us to use both traditional and state-of-the -art methods to provide an outstanding service.Get in touch today to find out more, or take a look at some of our previous heritage and high-end residential works to give you some well needed inspiration!