Owning a listed building

Approximately 2% of the UK’s buildings are deemed to be of special architectural or historical interest and therefore protected by listing. This is literally a list: the National Heritage List for England is a comprehensive and searchable record of all significant buildings in the country. If the house you’re buying is on this list, then you’re responsible for maintaining it according to a stringent set of guidelines. In practical terms, this means that you’ll need listed-building consent (as well as planning permission) for any changes. Doing anything without it is a criminal offence, so it’s not to be taken lightly.

Don’t let this put you off, however. Living in a home of historical interest can be a huge source of pride and a fascinating insight into the past. There are three different categories for listing, and 92% of listed properties are Grade II, the lowest group, while 5.5% are Grade II* and 2.5% are Grade I, for buildings of the highest significance. Age is key: anything pre-1700 is certain to be listed, and anything pre-1840 is highly likely to have been added as well. More modern buildings can be on the list if they’re believed to have particular significance or are under threat.

Listing covers a whole building, including the interior, unless parts of it are specifically excluded in the list description. Because all listed buildings are different, what is actually covered by a listing can vary quite widely. Some listing records are more detailed than others, so it’s definitely worth looking up your property to see what it holds.

It’s not that you’re not allowed to make any changes to a listed building, but all changes will need to be approved for their suitability. One obvious point is windows: maintaining traditional windows is a priority, and it’s always preferable to repair rather than replace them – and new UPVC windows will almost never be suitable. Changes to the interior are also restricted: you will usually be expected to keep old walls, all the roof timbers, old floors and plaster ceilings. This doesn’t mean that it’s not possible to, say, embark on a loft conversion – but you’ll probably need to use a structural engineer as well as an architect or surveyor who will understand any repair issues as well as the historic importance of the house. 

In some cases, grants are available from Historic England towards the repair and conservation of listed buildings. But anyone buying a listed building should be aware that the cost of repairs and general maintenance is likely to be greater than with a non-listed property, and that some changes might just not be possible.  However, it’s still your house, after all, and all sorts of things will get approved if they’re handled sensitively. 

On the list

This Grade II Listed Georgian town house in Mylne Street, London EC1 has lots of original features, including wood panelling, cornicing and mantelpieces, and could benefit from some sensitive refurbishment. The house has five bedrooms, a paved garden and lots of natural light and it’s on the market with Winkworth Clerkenwell & City, 020 7405 1288 for £3.4m. 

This stunning detached Grade II period house dates back to the late 1500s and retains many period features, including leaded windows and an inglenook fireplace. Set in the South Downs National Park, it has a peaceful rural setting with views to the South Downs, as well as five bedrooms, a mature garden and a swimming pool. It’s available through Winkworth Lewes 01273 471471 for £1.7m. 

Cleveland Bridge was built in in 1827 for horse drawn vehicles and pedestrians to access the city of Bath. The bridge is a Grade II* listed structure with four former toll houses at either end of the bridge. Currently for sale is this intriguing two bedroom house arranged over three storeys leading down to a riverside patio and garden area. It’s on the market with Winkworth Bath 01225 829 000 for £550,000.