Listed buildings
Summary
A listed building has what is called ‘special architectural or historic interest’. The older it is, the more likely it is to be listed. Buildings built before 1700 which survive in anything like their original condition are listed, as are most built between 1700 and 1840.
After that, the criteria for listing becomes tighter with time, so that post-1945 buildings have to be exceptionally important to be listed.
This guide answers the questions we most often get about this issue, and it covers the implications of owning a listed building. Click on a question from the list below to get to the answer.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Grade I, II* and II?
- Who decides whether or not a building should be listed or de-listed?
- How can I find out if my building is listed?
- What is a list description?
- How can I get a copy of my list description?
- Is the whole of my building included in the listing?
- What is listed building consent?
- Do I need listed building consent to...
- How can I apply for listed building consent?
- What about VAT on works to my listed building?
- What happens if I carry out unauthorised works to my listed building?
- Can the Council take any action if a listed building falls into disrepair?
- Where can I get advice on repair/restoration work?
- Are there any grants available for repairs to a listed building?
What is the difference between Grade I, Grade II* & Grade II?
- Grade I - of exceptional national architectural or historic importance
- Grade II* - of particular national importance & special interest
Both Grade I and II* listed buildings are of great importance to the nation’s built heritage and their importance will generally be beyond dispute.
Grade II listed buildings are of special architectural or historic interest and make up about 94% of all listed buildings.
Who decides whether or not a building should be listed or de-listed?
The Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport is responsible for compiling the statutory list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest.
Anyone can apply to have a building listed. Applications should be sent to English Heritage, who administers the application process and provides expert advice to the Secretary of State on which buildings meet the criteria for listing. Further information is available on the English Heritage website [external link].
How can I find out if my building is listed?
The Images of England website [external link] website contains details of all listed buildings in the country. If you are cannot access this website we will be able to tell you if your building is listed as long it is in the South Norfolk area.
What is a list description?
List descriptions are a way of identifying the building and have no legal status.
How can I get a copy of my list description?
On the Images of England website [external link]. Searches can be made in several different ways (i.e. Parish/Street/House Name or No. etc.) For a small charge, you can get copies of the List Descriptions from us.
Is the whole of my building included in the listing?
Yes. Any object or structure fixed to the building itself, or forming part of the land and has done since before 1st July 1948, is also protected by the listing. The area of land surrounding a listed building within the property boundaries is referred to as the ‘curtilage’.
What is listed building consent?
Listed Building Consent is needed for any work to be carried out to a listed building that would affect its special character and appearance. It is a criminal offence to carry out such works without consent.
Do I need listed building consent to...
- Repair windows/doors – No, providing they are carried out in a like-for-like manner.
- Replace windows/doors - Yes, even if the new windows/doors are to be of the exact same design, material and finish.
- Build a conservatory – Yes if attached to the main building or curtilage buildings. Planning permission may also be required.
- Build a separate building or structure within the curtilage – No, but planning permission is required.
- Install a satellite dish – Yes, if the dish is to be erected on any part of the building or curtilage buildings. Planning permission may also be required.
- Repaint the exterior of the property – Yes, if the building has not been painted before or if the proposed new colour affects the character and appearance of the building.
- Repair/replace the roof covering – No, providing the repairs or replacement roof covering are done using exact same material. Where possible pantiles/tiles should be re-used. Consent is required if it is proposed to cover a timber roof structure with boarding as part of re-roofing works.
- Put up a fence or wall in the curtilage of a listed building – Yes if attached to the main building or curtilage building. If not then only planning permission is required.
If you are not sure whether or not the works you wish to carry out require listed building consent then you should contact us on the number below.
How can I apply for Listed Building consent?
Listed Building Consent forms can be downloaded from this website or you can apply for planning permission online. If you also need planning permission for your proposal then the two separate applications can be submitted together.
What about VAT on works to my Listed Building?
Where listed building consent is required for works then VAT could be 'zero rated', providing the building is designed as a dwelling or used for qualifying residential or non-business charity purposes (or is being converted to such use). As consent is not normally required for general repairs and maintenance, these works would be subject to VAT at the normal rate.
For more detailed information on VAT and listed buildings you should contact HM Customs & Excise, tel: 01603 704200
What happens if I carry out unauthorised works to my Listed Building?
It is an offence to carry out works to a listed building which affect its character and appearance without our prior approval. If you do, you could be liable to prosecution, and/or be made to change what you have done. The maximum penalty could include imprisonment and unlimited fines.
Can the Council take any action if a listed building falls into disrepair?
Yes. There are powers we can use to require owners to carry out urgent repairs to safeguard the future of a building and prevent further damage. In certain cases we can apply to ‘Compulsory Purchase’ a listed building.
Where can I get advice on repair/restoration work?
We have a team of conservation officers who are available to offer advice and guidance on repair and restoration works to Listed Buildings. If you require any information then please telephone us on the number below. Information is also available on the websites listed under 'External links' below.
Are there any grants available for repairs to a Listed Building?
There are no funds available other than for the repair of the buildings identified on the Buildings at Risk register.
Related pages on this website
External links
English Heritage
The organisation set up to 'protect and promote England's spectacular historic environment'.
English Heritage: Images of England
A photographic record of all England's listed buildings.
Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB)
Advice and guidance on the preservation of old buildings from the organisation founded by William Morris in 1877.
Buildingconservation.com
Website dedicated to the conservation and restoration of old buildings.
Contact us
| contact officer/team: | Conservation and Landscape Team |
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| web: | online enquiry form |
| email: | planning@s-norfolk.gov.uk |
| freephone: | 0808 168 3000 |
| telephone: | 01508 533818 |
| minicom/textphone: | 01508 533622 |
| address: | South Norfolk Council South Norfolk House Swan Lane Long Stratton Norwich NR15 2XE |
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