What part of a listed building is listed?

The entire building is listed, including interior features, attached structures and sometimes curtilage structures within the boundary. Protection applies to the whole asset, not just the façade.

Can I delist or unlist my House

Delisting is possible but uncommon. An application must be made to Historic England, demonstrating that the building no longer meets listing criteria.

What happens if I don't have Listed Building Consent (LBC)?

Carrying out unauthorised works to a listed building is a criminal offence. Local Authorities can require reinstatement and may pursue enforcement action.

Can I alter or repair my listed building without consent?

Minor like-for-like repairs may not require consent. However, alterations affecting character almost always require listed building consent. Professional advice is strongly recommended.

What survey do I need for a listed building?

A RICS Level 3 Building Survey is typically recommended. If works are proposed, you may also require a heritage survey or heritage statement.

How much does a listed building survey cost?

Costs vary depending on size, complexity and condition. Heritage buildings generally require more detailed inspection and reporting.

How much does listed building consent cost?

There is no planning application fee for listed building consent in England. However, professional fees for surveys, drawings and supporting documentation apply.

What areas do you cover?

We provide heritage surveys and conservation consultancy across England & Wales, with strong regional coverage in Liverpool, Manchester and the North West.

An old English cottage that is an example of a listed building in the UK

HERITAGE SURVEYS,
CONSERVATION AND RESTORATION

Heritage buildings require specialist knowledge, sensitivity and technical expertise. We provide professional heritage surveys, historic building surveys and conservation advice to protect architecturally and culturally significant properties.

From listed building consent and heritage statements to condition surveys and restoration support, we deliver clear, compliant reporting to help you make informed decisions. Working across Liverpool, Manchester, Preston and throughout England & Wales, we support owners, developers and custodians of heritage assets at every stage.

CONTACT US

THE CHOSEN SPECIALIST SURVEYORS

OUR EXPERT HERITAGE SURVEYS

A heritage survey is a structured process of identifying, documenting and assessing the historical, architectural and cultural significance of a heritage building.

As experienced heritage house surveyors, we provide tailored services depending on the building’s age, designation and intended works. Our heritage surveys typically fall into three key categories:

HERITAGE PROPERTY BLOG

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LISTED BUILDING CONSENT & PLANNING SUPPORT

If you are proposing alterations to a listed building, you will likely require listed building consent. We prepare supporting documentation and provide technical advice to ensure compliance with planning legislation.

Our expertise in heritage conservation ensures proposals respect historical character while accommodating practical requirements. We work closely with Local Planning Authorities to streamline the consent process.

HISTORIC BUILDING SURVEYS

Our historic building surveys provide a detailed assessment of condition, structural integrity and fabric performance.

These surveys are essential when:

Purchasing a heritage building
Planning restoration works
Investigating defects
Managing long-term conservation

Reports identify defects, assess structural movement, highlight inappropriate alterations and provide conservation-led repair recommendations.

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DESIGN & PROJECT MANAGEMENT FOR HERITAGE BUILDINGS

Restoring or adapting a historic property requires coordinated expertise. We provide architectural design, technical detailing and project management services specifically for heritage projects.

Our integrated approach ensures that design intent, conservation principles and regulatory compliance are aligned from concept to completion.

Based in Liverpool, which has one of the highest concentrations of listed buildings outside London, we draw on extensive regional and national experience in heritage conservation.

Our practice is based in Liverpool, which we think is iconic given that Liverpool has the most listed buildings outside of London. This gives us a wealth of experience, drawing on our heritage as expert custodians of building conservation to offer our clients the well-informed reporting they require.

WHAT IS A HERITAGE SURVEY?

A heritage survey combines research, site inspection and professional assessment to understand a building’s significance and condition.

Our process typically includes:

Research & Background Study: Reviewing historical documents, archive material, maps and previous alterations.

Field Survey: Undertaking a thorough inspection of the building, recording construction methods, materials and defects.

Documentation: Producing a detailed report outlining architectural features, structural performance and historical development.

Assessment of Significance: Evaluating architectural, evidential, historical and communal value in line with recognised heritage guidance.

Recommendations for Conservation: Providing practical advice for preservation, repair, adaptive reuse or further investigation.

OUR PROJECTS

BUILDING SURVEYS

WHY WE CONDUCT HERITAGE SURVEYS

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

Heritage surveys play a vital role in safeguarding the built environment while enabling responsible development.

TO PRESERVE CULTURAL AND HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE

Heritage surveys identify the elements that contribute to a building’s importance, ensuring these features are protected for future generations.

TO INFORM PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Historic building surveys and heritage statements provide Local Planning Authorities with the information required to assess proposals affecting designated and non-designated heritage assets.

TO SUPPORT HERITAGE CONSERVATION

Heritage conservation relies on accurate data. Surveys provide the technical evidence required to prioritise repairs, allocate resources and justify interventions.

Planning permissions may include conditions requiring Historic Building Recording (Levels 1–4), depending on significance. We prepare compliant reports to discharge these conditions effectively.

TO RAISE AWARENESS AND EDUCATE

Documenting heritage assets contributes to community identity and historical understanding. Heritage surveys support local listings, conservation areas and long-term stewardship.

City Hall in St. Peter's Square, Manchester, England, UK

LISTED BUILDING CONSULTANCY

Understanding what alterations are permitted within a listed building can be complex.

While like-for-like repairs may not require consent, most alterations that affect character will require listed building consent. We provide specialist consultancy for: