What work can be carried out on a listed building? Commercial Property

Carrying out works to a listed building, whether internal or external, needs careful consideration.

It is a criminal offence to carry out works to a listed building without having the relevant planning permission and listed building consent in place. In addition the planning authority can take enforcement action to compel the owner to rectify the unauthorised work and return the building to its original state.

Regular maintenance and minor ‘like for like’ repairs do not need listed building consent unless they involve altering or replacing historic features.

Internal painting and decorating does not usually need consent, unless historic decoration is affected, but external painting may require consent as it could affect the character of the building.

Emergency work can be carried out to a listed building without prior consent, providing you can prove the work was necessary due to health and safety or preservation of the building, that minimum measures were taken and that you notified your local authority in writing as soon as possible after carrying out the work.

As a rule of thumb, if you are carrying out a repair or renewal to a listed building that would affect its character, listed building consent will be required.

If in doubt, speak to your local planning authority or seek legal advice.