Listed Buildings

Our services aim to assist clients in preserving and enhancing the historical significance of listed buildings while meeting their specific needs and complying with relevant regulations. These services include:

• Measured Building Surveys: We undertake detailed measured surveys to create accurate floor plans, elevations and sections. This is often the first step on our listed building projects.
• Architectural Design: Creative design services for extensions, renovations and conversions ensuring proposals respect the historical character of the building while meeting clients needs.
• Planning Applications: We handle the process of applying for planning permission, including preparing the necessary drawings and documents and liaising with the local planning authority.
• 3D Modelling: We use cutting-edge technology to create 3D models of buildings where required, to help clients visualise proposals and changes in design.
• Heritage Statements: We prepare heritage statements to assess the impact of the proposed works on the historical significance of the building.
• Listed Building Consent: Any alterations to a listed building require Listed Building Consent from the local planning authority. We prepare and submit the application and negotiate with the authority on our clients behalf.
• Conservation and Restoration: Professional advice on appropriate methods and materials for conserving and restoring historic buildings.

Why use SurveyCloud?

We have a comprehensive understanding of the entire process, from initial measured survey through design development to preparation and submission of the listed building consent application. This holistic approach has distinct advantages:

• Consistency: The same company will have a consistent understanding of the property, its history and the proposed changes, leading to a more coherent and well-structured application.
• Efficiency: Communication is streamlined when one company handles all tasks, saving time and preventing misunderstandings.
• Expertise: Survey data is presented in a way that supports the planning application, highlighting key features or issues that might impact the submission.
• Cost: It can be more cost-effective to use one service provider for all tasks.
• Responsibility: If any issues arise, there’s clear accountability.

Everything you need to know about Listed properties.

Listed properties in the UK are buildings or structures that have been placed on the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. These properties are legally protected from being demolished, extended, or altered without special permission from the local planning authority. Owning a listed property can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to understand the responsibilities and restrictions that come with it. Always seek professional advice before buying a listed property or carrying out any work on one. Here’s everything you need to know about them:

• Classification: Listed properties are classified into three categories: Grade I, Grade II*, and Grade II. 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.
• Listing Process: Buildings are listed by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England. Any member of the public can nominate a building or structure for listing.
• Restrictions: Owning a listed property comes with certain responsibilities and restrictions. Any changes that might affect the character of the building, including internal alterations, require Listed Building Consent from the local planning authority. This is in addition to any planning permissions that may be required.
• Maintenance: Owners of listed buildings are expected to maintain them in good repair. Failure to do so can result in legal action by the local planning authority.
• Insurance: Listed buildings often require specialist insurance due to their unique nature and the potential cost of repairs or restoration.
• Buying and Selling: Buying a listed property can be more complex than buying a non-listed property. Surveys and valuations may need to be carried out by specialists. Selling a listed property can also take longer, as potential buyers may need to arrange specialist finance and insurance.
• Grants and Funding: There are various grants and funding options available for the repair and maintenance of listed buildings. These are often provided by Historic England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and local authorities.
• Unlisted Changes: If changes have been made to a listed building without consent, the owner can be required to undo the changes, even if they were not responsible for them. This can apply to changes made by previous owners.
• Tax Relief: Listed properties may be eligible for VAT relief on certain types of work. This can include alterations, renovations and repairs.
• Penalties: Unauthorised work on a listed building is a criminal offence and can result in a fine or imprisonment. The local planning authority can also issue an enforcement notice requiring unauthorised work to be reversed.