CAN I AFFORD IT?
I’m going to view a Grade II listed property on Saturday but the last buyer pulled out because it looked like a ‘money pit’ as a new roof was needed and a damp cellar. I’m happy to give TLC if I can afford it. How much more expensive is it to buy a Grade II listed semi? Can my local authority help me know what I do if I want to replace windows, for example? This place needs some attention. Thank you.
Each listed building is very different from the next so it is difficult to give generic advice. It sounds to me as if you need advice from a good building surveyor who can look at the building with you and explain all the potential costs involved. The local council are unlikely to be able to help in this respect. I would recommend a conservation surveyor. A good place to start would be the LPOC Suppliers Directory which is available at the website.
Peter Bell, LPOC Conservation Advisor
DO I NEED AN ARCHITECT?
What are the benefits of using an architect for general listed building consent applications?
It all depends on the complexity of the proposed alteration.
The right architect is likely to understand how best to interpret and fulfil your brief, how to present the case for an alteration, how to design within a historic context and how to get the best outcome for you. You also get the benefits of a professional service which you may not get from a plan drawer or surveyor who is not bound by professional ethics.
For minor applications you may not need the services of an architect but if you are proposing an extension it is generally best to use one. I deal with people all the time who failed to get listed building consent or planning permission because they did not employ the right expertise and submitted applications which were poorly made and destined to be refused from the outset.
Peter Bell, LPOC Conservation Advisor
Listed Heritage Magazine September/October 2018 27 Continued >>
BEETLE ATTACK
Hi Peter, you may recall I spoke to you recently. We had been concerned about seeing frass on the dining room table. You advised to look out for any evidence of beetles particularly on window sills flying towards the light. We have seen a beetle as shown in the photograph. I am a bit concerned that it may be a deathwatch beetle. I would be very appreciative of your advice.
Peter Bell’s advice to the member was to get expert advice from Dr Brian Ridout, which he did. Dr Ridout responded as follows:
Your insect is a Larder Beetle (Dermestes lardarius). This is a common cosmopolitan minor pest species that feeds on protein- rich material such as old pet food or
even something like a dead mouse. If you have only found two then there cannot be a significant source.
They can attack wood, but only in situations like guano filled hen houses.
Nothing to worry about. Brian Ridout
WHAT’S LISTED?
I am considering buying a Grade II listed property as my family home but I’m finding it really hard to get the information I need to decide.
I want to understand what I can / cannot do to the property. Is there any way I can find out what is included in the house listing?
When a building is listed the whole building, inside and out (and anything within its curtilage) is protected by the listing.
The precise extent of what is architecturally and historically significant is not documented in the statutory list or anywhere else for that matter. Historic England offers enhanced advisory service (for a fee) which provides a much enhanced list description which can sometimes help.
If there are any specific issues or alterations that you want to discuss you are very welcome to give me a ring.
Peter Bell, LPOC Conservation Advisor
TREE TROUBLE
We are members of LPOC and have a huge holly tree in the garden which although adds height is causing injury to family members. We have 2 dogs and 2 children one preschool and as the leaves fall they are causing injuries to little ankles and furry feet.
Could we remove the tree without permission and plant something else to add height like a yew, or will the council need to grant permission? How likely are they to agree to this? I honestly think it was a weed and just left to grow. Holly pops up everywhere in the garden randomly.
You need to check with the local council to see if the tree is protected in any way. That can either be by a Tree Preservation Order or if it falls within a designated conservation area. Both designations may be available on the council’s website but if not they should be able to answer you enquiry by email or telephone.
If the tree is protected (as above) you will need consent from the council to fell and replace it. I would not expect it to be a problem unless they consider it to have high amenity value. If the tree is not protected you can fell it at your leisure.
Peter Bell, LPOC Conservation Advisor
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