Owning a period property can be a dream; however, it can come with its headaches.
Your windows play an important role in your home’s appearance, efficiency and security. When your windows aren’t as efficient anymore, listed buildings are protected, making potential upgrades difficult.
Knowing what to do when replacing windows in your home is important to ensure you comply with regulations. We’ve compiled a guide with all the information you need to gain Listed Building Consent, and why Residence 9 windows are a good choice for your listed home.
What Is A Listed Building?
A listed building is a property recommended for listing by Historic England and advised by the Secretary of State to be protected due to its historic, cultural or artistic heritage. Therefore, the building’s value needs to be preserved, and the owner has a duty to maintain the building and keep it in its original condition as closely as possible.
England has 500,000 listed buildings, and each building is one of three classifications: Grade I, Grade II* or Grade II.
Grade I Buildings
Grade I listed buildings have exceptional national, architectural or historical significance. These sites are important. Therefore, it is rare to find a Grade I listed building compared to a Grade II listed building. In fact, only 2.5% of listed buildings are Grade I.
Grade II* Buildings
A building of ‘particularly important buildings of more than special interest’ is Grade II* listed. Around 5.8% of listed buildings are classified Grade II*, as they are of more than special interest.
Grade II Buildings
Grade II listed buildings are the most common classification. These buildings are of special interest and warrant every effort to preserve them. Around 90% of listed buildings are Grade II.
What Is Listed Building Consent?
Listed building consent is a special form of planning permission. It is required in the UK if you wish to demolish, alter, or extend a protected building. This consent ensures that any changes made are sympathetic to the building’s historical and architectural significance. Listed building consent protects both the inside and outside of the property, and is required for structural changes, interior alterations and exterior changes, including replacing windows.
You should always check with a local authority Conservation Officer whether or not you are required to apply for listed building consent, depending on what you plan to do. You should also get guidance on acceptable changes and what may need to be adapted to ensure your application is accepted. This could save you a lot of time and money.
Any unauthorised works on a listed property are a criminal offence, and individuals can be prosecuted, resulting in substantial fines or even a prison sentence.
When Can I Replace Windows in a Listed Building?
You must receive formal Listed Building Consent before replacing any windows on a listed property. Replacements are only permitted if your windows are beyond repair or if previous non-historic replacements need to be replaced.
Like-for-like replacements typically do not require prior approval; it is always recommended that you check with your local planning department anyway, to be sure.
Can I Install Double Glazing Into A Listed Building?
Yes, you can install double glazing into a listed building, yet you will be required to gain Listed Building Consent, which is granted under the following conditions:
- The existing buildings are of no heritage value or beyond reasonable repair,
- The installation of secondary glazing is not feasible due to the window’s design,
- Habitable rooms in the listed building are subject to constant external noise or present unacceptable conditions for the occupier,
- Inserting traditionally detailed, double-glazed windows in instances where existing windows are inappropriate in material and design, have no historic value, and harm the building’s overall appearance.
Applying For Planning Permission To Replace Windows On A Listed Building
When you apply for planning permission, remember that the Listed Building status applies to both the interior and exterior of the property. Therefore, internal maintenance works and alterations must be signed off on first. This work could include structural changes to room plans, rebuilding features, exposing timber and brickwork and installing double glazing.
Your local council will grant your Listed Building Consent. The application process requires a Listed building form, which includes the elevations of your property, section drawings of the proposed replacement windows, and a schedule showing each item being replaced.
You may also be required to submit details on how the proposed windows relate to and protect the historic character of your building, and clear visual evidence of the existing windows and their current condition.
Listed building applications are free, and you will typically receive a decision within 8 to 12 weeks. It could take longer for sensitive or complex listed properties, taking up to 16 weeks or longer.
How Can Residence 9 or Residence 7 Windows Be Used For Listed Buildings?
Residence 9 and Residence 7 are excellent heritage alternatives to traditional timber windows. With authentic designs, flush aesthetics and historical proportions, local planning authorities often deem them suitable for listed buildings and conservation areas.
Both systems are designed to replicate traditional styles, often incorporating classic features including timber-effect woodgrain finishes.
However, whilst maintaining a traditional look, these windows are made from high-performance, multi-chambered uPVC frames. This means that they achieve excellent U-values, making your property more comfortable and future-proofed against energy price rises.
Residence 9 windows are specifically designed to replicate historical British architecture, such as Victorian and Georgian designs. With a 100mm frame depth and stylised finishes, this window is an excellent choice for heritage and listed properties.
Residence 7 windows are slightly more versatile, offering a 75mm frame depth. They have a flush sash on both sides and can be adapted to both traditional and contemporary properties, depending on your aesthetic preference and the conservation officer’s approval.
Listed buildings are rich with history, and it is important to maintain their character and charm. Here at Seal-Lite, we are a supplier of both Residence 9 and Residence 7 windows, and we can help you find the right finish for your home.
To discuss the Residence range in greater detail, speak to our team today. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.