Listed building works and consents in Kent

When listed building consent is needed

Listed building consent is needed for works that affect a listed building's character as a building of special architectural or historic interest. That applies inside and out, and to the whole building, not just the features mentioned in the list entry. It can include some repairs, even like-for-like ones, where they affect historic fabric, as well as alterations, extensions and demolition. Carrying out unauthorised works to a listed building can be a criminal offence, and the owner can be required to put things back. Talk to your council's conservation officer before starting anything.

Heritage statements and applications

A listed building consent application usually needs drawings and a heritage statement, which explains the significance of the building and the parts affected, and how the proposals affect them. Some councils also ask for a schedule of works and method statements. Specialists who prepare these understand historic fabric and how councils assess proposals. Planning permission may be needed alongside consent, for example for an extension. Many councils offer pre-application advice, which can save time on larger projects, and Historic England publishes clear guidance for owners of listed buildings.

Insurance, VAT and conservation areas

Insurance for a listed home should reflect the cost of rebuilding with traditional materials and methods, which can differ a lot from a standard rebuild figure, so tell your insurer the home is listed. Alterations to listed buildings are now generally standard-rated for VAT, as the zero rate ended in 2012, so check with an accountant or HMRC for your project. If your home is in a conservation area rather than listed, there are still restrictions, and Article 4 directions may remove some permitted development rights, so check with your council.

Jobs we can find a restoration specialist for

Heritage statements and significance assessments
Listed building consent applications
Pre-application advice requests
Measured surveys and drawings
Schedules of work and method statements
Advice on conservation area restrictions

Get a quote for listed building works and consents

Available across Kent

Dartford Gravesend Medway Maidstone Sevenoaks Tonbridge & Tunbridge Wells Ashford Canterbury Thanet Folkestone & Hythe Dover & Deal Swale

Other services

Sash window restoration and draught-proofing · Lime pointing, lime render and lime plaster · Brick, stone and flint repairs · Timber frame and weatherboarding repairs · Period joinery, doors and staircases

Listed building works and consents: common questions

Do I need consent for like-for-like repairs on a listed building?

Sometimes. Minor like-for-like repairs may not need consent, but where repairs affect historic fabric or character, they can. Check with the council's conservation officer before work starts.

What happens if work was done without consent?

Unauthorised works to a listed building can be a criminal offence, and the council can require the work to be reversed. If you've bought a home with unauthorised alterations, talk to the conservation officer and get specialist advice.

How do I find out if my house is listed?

Search the National Heritage List for England on the Historic England website, or ask your council. The council can also tell you whether you're in a conservation area or covered by an Article 4 direction.