The Wharf: Home Front – June 11, 2009

Q. What are my responsibilities as an owner of a listed building and what happens if I wish to make alterations?

A. As an owner of a listed building it is your responsibility to ensure that the property is repaired and maintained, which in some cases may require “listed building consent”. Should an owner of a listed property cause unnecessary damage, neglect or carry out works without listed building consent, the local authority can take legal action against the owner, who could face criminal prosecution. Should a local authority believe a listed building is not being properly preserved they can serve a repairs notice on the property’s owner. This notice will state the works which the authority consider reasonably necessary for the proper preservation of the building. Non compliance within two months of this notice can result in the authority serving a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO). A listed building cannot be demolished, extended or altered without listed building consent from the local planning authority.

This type of consent may be required for changing windows, doors, painting over brickwork, removing external surfaces, installing roof lights, erection of aerials, satellite dishes or burglar alarms and moving or removing internal walls. Basically, if you change or alter anything that will affect the character or appearance of the property, it will require listed building consent.

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Daniela WeatherillOverseas Landlord

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David & Ginette Marks