Listed Building Repairs

Preserving our Architectural Heritage for Future Generations

UK Listed Building Grading Classifications

In the UK there around 500,000 listed buildings, recognised for their historical or architectural importance. In England, Historic England primarily oversees and dictates what can be done to a listed building, while English Heritage and local authorities also play specific roles. In Scotland, Historic Environment Scotland, in Wales: Cadw and in Northern Ireland: Historic Environment Division perform these roles, along with local authorities.

Listed buildings are classified numerically in England and alphabetically in Scotland:

• Grade I: Buildings of exceptional interest (Grade A in Scotland) representing about 2.5% of all listed properties in the UK.
• Grade II* (Grade II Star): Particularly important buildings (Grade B in Scotland) accounting for 5.5% of UK listed buildings.
• Grade II: Buildings of special interest (Grade C in Scotland) making up the majority (92%) of listed buildings in the UK.

Whether it’s a Grade I, Grade II*, or Grade II listed property in England (A, B or C in Scotland), we understand the unique regulations required to care for these historic structures, and work to ensure all work is compliant with local planning regulations and heritage conservation standards.

Listed Building Repair & Restoration Regulations

Listed buildings are protected by law. Repairs, restoration or alterations to listed buildings are subject to strict regulations to preserve their historical significance., and must be handled with care and precision.

Planning consent is normally required before any listed building repair or restoration work can begin. Such consent will also mandate that only approved materials and methods can be used, to preserve the original character of the building.

Architect & Other Professional Project Collaborations

We understand the importance of early-stage planning, particularly in heritage building projects. Our team works hand-in-hand with architects and designers to develop restoration plans that respect the building’s history while addressing modern needs.

Listed buildings are subject to stringent planning and building control regulations. By collaborating with conservation officers and building control, we ensure that every project preserves the integrity of the building while meeting modern requirements.

We can handle the planning application process, ensuring that all necessary permissions and approvals are obtained in a timely manner, while also ensuring that the project complies with both local authority regulations and conservation guidelines.

Regulation Compliance & Conservation Practices

We work in compliance with National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and local heritage guidelines to ensure all repairs are carried out in accordance with conservation regulations, including the use of traditional materials and methods — vital in preserving the authenticity of listed buildings.

Our team is trained to work with historic materials that match the original structure as closely as possible, to maintain the building’s historical character. For example lime mortar in brickwork and masonry to maintain flexibility and breathability, and breathable paints to protect historic buildings from damp while allowing the structure to breathe.