Listed marks the validation of appreciation of structural unique architectural and historic buildings which are protected by the law, so future generations have an appreciation of these marvels. The older the building and its rarity deem more likely to be listed.
A building that has been listed have been placed on a statutory National Heritage list. The motive behind this is to identify the most important buildings in the country. There are about half a million listed buildings in the UK from:
- Cottages
- Castles
- Victorian drunk tanks
- Pubs
- Etc…
Age plays a substantial part in being listed, all buildings built before 1700 which survive and upheld their original condition have a high percentage of being listed, as are buildings built between 1700-1850. Building less than 30 years old aren’t normally eligible for consideration to be listed as their rarity and longevity isn’t an issue.
There are three main categories of listed buildings (England & Wales):
- Grade I buildings are of exceptional interest,
- Grade II* buildings are particularly important buildings of more than special interest
- Grade II buildings are of special interest
These listing statuses apply to the whole building itself, internal and external factors of the whole building.
The statutory list of buildings of special architectural and historic interest is maintained in England by English heritage, in Wales by Cadw, in Scotland by Historic Scotland and in Northern Ireland by N. Ireland Environment Agency.
How will listing affect me?
Listing a building doesn’t make it a perseveration order but it does prevent it from destruction as changes without consent may lead to a criminal offence. Listed buildings enforcement notice can be issued if unauthorised work takes places forcing the owners to restore the listed building to its former state.
