London Corporate Relocation Agency - Understanding What Having A Listed Building/Home Means
Our London corporate relocation agency understands it can be a pain to renovate your home if the building is listed.
The 'listed building' term is unique to the UK. There are around half a million UK buildings which are listed, together with some specific UK historic monuments that are listed. Being “listed” marks those buildings that have special architectural and historic interest. This said, it also brings such buildings within the consideration of the planning system when it comes to its future (i.e if you're considering a home renovation).
All buildings built before 1700 which retain much of their original features are listed, as well as those built later but which are of some historic importance. Most of those between 1700 and 1840 are likely to be listed.
According to the English Heritage website:
Grade 1 buildings (of which 2.5% of listed buildings form) are of exceptional interest and considered to be internationally important.
Grade 11* buildings (of which there are about 5.5% of listed buildings) are particularly important and of more than special interest.
Grade 11 buildings (of which these form 92% of listed buildings) are nationally important and of special interest and would therefore be more likely to be owned by a home owner.
If you do want to buy a listed building and want to carry out certain works or extensions, then listed building consent will need to be applied for. You should always check if any work has already been carried out, and if it has been done with such consent from the Conservation Officer from the local council. Remember it is the person that you buy from that is liable for the correction of any alterations or additions.
Our London corporate relocation agency can help put you in touch with the right people, should you be thinking of buying a listed property. From checking if the property is listed, to solicitors who are familiar with checking the planning consents for such buildings. If you have already bought a listed building, and find unauthorised work, then our London corporate relocation agency can give you a list of suitable insurers.
