As much of the UK moves towards Net Zero, there are many challenges surrounding working on listed or heritage buildings. In this article, we’ll be looking at some of the things to consider, to help lower your carbon footprint. It is important to be mindful of these requirements whilst working with listed buildings, so you don’t get caught out.
This article will provide some suggestions and rules to be aware of. Be mindful of these points and always seek advice whenever you are working on a listed or heritage building.
Preserving Significant Aspects
First, examine the significance of the different parts of the building. Consider focusing new works on the areas of less significance, so areas of most historical significance are retained as much as possible. It is important to consider that the original methods of construction may have used harmful materials, for example, many older buildings tend to have lead paint, which is hazardous to health. A surveyor can help by assessing the extent of risk, and advise on safe management whilst preserving the historic features. Surveyors can then help coordinate with specialists, ensure compliance with health and safety and heritage regulations and prepare clear specifications for the work.
Integrating Modern Amenities / Sustainability
It can be quite tricky to preserve the historical aspects of a listed building whilst adding in modern amenities. Additions such as insulation, solar panels and sound systems may require innovative solutions to attain listed building consent. So how can a surveyor support you in this process?
Solar Panels
There are specific requirements to be met when installing solar panels on listed buildings. When applying for permission, you need to specify how the panels will be installed and how they will visibly fit with the existing building. The structure is required to be in good condition before installation and the solar panels should not cause any damage to the structure.
A surveyor can help by evaluating the feasibility of adding solar panels and proposing discreet options like solar slates or ground-mounted panels. They can also assist with submitting planning permission and recommending energy storage to enhance efficiency. The main goal is to do so with minimal alterations. It is also important to contact your local authorities to be informed of likely requirements pertaining to whether your building is grade I, grade II* or grade II listed. Again, a good surveyor can be helpful in guiding you through the process and working with specialist contractors to advise on technical requirements. Dave Edwards from Chawton Hill and Chris Wright from Powercor go into more detail on PV and Solar Options in this article.
Insulation
Listed buildings are more likely to struggle with retaining heat.
Single glazed windows, the material of the walls and the type of heating used can all affect the heat retention of a listed building. In order to improve energy efficiency, you may want to install insulation. However, there are requirements when it comes to insulating these structures. Making changes to original features can be problematic, as reducing the cross ventilation that these structures are designed for can cause issues with condensation and mould.
A surveyor can assist in conducting thermal imaging and heat loss assessments to identify gaps that are allowing heat to escape. They can then recommend breathable insulation materials, which can help prevent moisture building up and damp damaging the structure. A surveyor can also help you through the process of attaining Listed Building Consent (LBC) and ensure you are in compliance with the conservation guidelines.
Replacing windows can be costly as you may be required to ensure they match the original windows on the structure. Another option for retaining heat is changing the heating system. This, along with changing the lighting are options that can help achieve higher heat and energy efficiency.
Sound Systems
Sound is another feature that may be problematic within an older building. High ceilings and hard surfaces are prevalent in listed buildings. This can lead to unwanted echoes and poor sound quality.
An acoustic assessment can help evaluate the buildings’ existing sound insulation. A surveyor may recommend ways to improve acoustics without damaging significant features. This could range from discreet cabling and vibration control methods, as well as suitable mounting techniques. If structural changes are necessary, a surveyor will guide you through the process of obtaining the required permission
Funding
You can get funding for refurbishing listed buildings from a range of different places, including government grants and charities. Historic England, the Architectural Heritage Fund and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, are some of the organisations that help preserve historical value. You may be able to get grants from local councils for Grade I and Grade II Listed buildings.
At Chawton Hill, we regularly support clients through the process of applying for funding. Working on listed / heritage buildings whilst preserving their historical value can be quite challenging, but there are many resources available to make this process achievable. By keeping up with the latest policies and consulting a surveyor, you can ensure that your refurbishments do not disrupt the historical value and significance of the building you are working on. At Chawton Hill our surveying team can help you apply for planning permission and funding to work on your heritage project. We will provide guidance to keep you compliant to the many regulations that come with listed buildings.
Contact us if you’d like help with any of the issues outlined in this article.