Spotlight On Insurance

Listed Buildings: What you need to know

Historic buildings are central to the unique character of British towns and villages. The most treasured of these buildings are categorised as ‘listed’ and as such are protected from out of character alterations and demolition. If you own, or hope to own, one of the 500,000 listed properties in the UK, you’ll need to be aware of the rules, regulations and protocol that surround them.

Renovating a listed building

If you want to undertake renovation work on a listed building, you need to contact your local council first. They will advise you on whether you can carry out the intended work or not. In some cases, they may defer a decision to English Heritage, who have been in charge of the listing process since 2005.

You will need Listed Building Consent for all work to a listed building that involves alterations, extensions or demolition and will affect its character as a building of interest.

Changing the inside of a listed building

The listing of a building applies to the inside of a property as well as the exterior. Internal changes require permission in exactly the same way. Outbuildings, associated lands and even trees are also usually listed along with the property.

Patience may be required

It often takes more than a couple of months for councils to consider and decide on planning applications, so it can be tempting to proceed without permission - especially in the case of smaller renovation tasks. However, undertaking unauthorised work on a listed building is a criminal offence.

Respect your building’s heritage

Once you have received permission to undertake any required works on your building, it’s important to respect its materials and craftsmanship. In order to preserve what makes your listed building special, try to use traditional building materials that match the existing structures in order to maintain the character of your home.

Have appropriate home insurance

If you are fortunate to own a listed building, you’ll understand the importance of giving it the protection it deserves. NFU Mutual understand that no two homes are the same and we offer two Home Insurance products that ensure your property has suitable cover, allowing you to enjoy living in your own piece of history.

Simon Godding, Agent, NFU Mutual Wessex

Protect your home with NFU Mutual Insurance

NFU Mutual Wessex, 10 & 12, Leanne Business Centre, Sandford Lane, Wareham, BH20 4DX | 01929 448643