What is a Listed Building?
21 August
A Listed Building can be a building, object or even a structure which holds a national importance (historically or architecturally). Listed Buildings are included on a register called ‘The List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest’.
The register is put together by the DCMS (Department for Culture, Media and Sports) and is subject/under the provisions of the ‘Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990’.
The types of Listed Buildings:
Grade I buildings are of exceptional interest, only 2.5% of listed buildings are Grade I.
Grade II* buildings are particularly important buildings of more than special interest; 5.8% of listed buildings are Grade II*.
Grade II buildings are of special interest; 91.7% of all listed buildings are in this class and it is the most likely grade of listing for a homeowner.
Requirements for Listed Buildings:
Listed buildings require specialist management. They typically require more maintenance, and care must be taken to preserve the buildings.
Periodic reviews of the building's condition are recommended. At set periodic periods, renewals should be made to the building to maintain its unique characteristics.
Preventative maintenance plans are essential for listed buildings. As the cost of maintenance can be high, having plans in place which clearly detail required works help with spreading the cost.
When completing works to listed buildings, you need to be sure that any required consents are obtained. This can be for changes to signage, windows, structure etc., various items can require consent. If you are not sure if works you are planning require consent, then it is recommended you seek advice from a professional.
At Apex Property Management, we have experience of managing various listed buildings throughout Devon and Cornwall. We have a pool of contractors who specialise in listed buildings and understand the techniques and standards required. We have worked with Historic England on projects for listed buildings, and fully understand the processes required.
(Pictured - Listed Bacon smokehouse, 1877 by Charles Bell for ER Parker, provisions merchant. Converted to offices in the late C20.)
