What is the difference between Grade I, Grade II* and Grade II?

Grade I buildings are of exceptional interest - only around 2% of all listed buildings. Grade II* (two star) are particularly important buildings of more than special interest, around 5-6% of listings. Grade II are of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve them - around 92% of all listed buildings fall into this category.

What works require Listed Building Consent?

Listed Building Consent is required for any works that would affect the character of a listed building, including internal as well as external alterations. This includes replacing windows or doors, removing internal walls, altering fireplaces, repointing, re-roofing, adding extensions, and any changes to historic fabric. Ordinary maintenance and repair using matching materials generally does not require consent, but the line can be fine - always check with the local planning authority.

What happens if you alter a listed building without consent?

Carrying out works to a listed building without the required Listed Building Consent is a criminal offence under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. There is no time limit on prosecution. The offence can result in an unlimited fine, up to two years imprisonment, and a requirement to reinstate the original fabric at the owner's expense.

Listed Building - Construction Glossary

Q: What is a listed building?

A listed building is a structure placed on the National Heritage List for England (NHLE) because of its special architectural or historic interest. The listing gives it statutory protection under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, requiring Listed Building Consent for any works that would alter its character, in addition to any planning permission that might be required.

Definition

A listed building is a structure placed on the National Heritage List for England (NHLE) because of its special architectural or historic interest. The listing gives it statutory protection under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, requiring Listed Building Consent (LBC) for any works that would affect its character - in addition to any planning permission that might be needed.

In practice

There are three grades of listing in England. Grade I buildings are of exceptional interest - only around 2% of all listed buildings. Grade II* (two star) are particularly important, around 5-6%. Grade II are of special interest and account for approximately 92% of all listed buildings - around 370,000 individual entries on the NHLE. The listing covers the entire building including interior, all later extensions, and often structures within the curtilage.

Listed Building Consent is required for any works that would affect the character of the listed building - internal as well as external. This includes replacing windows or doors, repointing, re-roofing with different materials, removing internal walls, altering historic fireplaces or joinery, and adding extensions. Routine maintenance using matching materials generally does not require consent, but the boundary can be unclear - consent should always be sought before starting any works to a listed building.

Planning & Legal

LegislationPlanning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990

RegisterNational Heritage List for England (Historic England)

Consent requiredListed Building Consent - internal and external works

Penalty for breachUnlimited fine / up to 2 years imprisonment

Unauthorised works to a listed building are a criminal offence with no time limit on prosecution. Permitted development rights are automatically removed for listed buildings - all external works, and most internal alterations, require Listed Building Consent regardless of their scale. Separate planning permission may also be required for extensions or changes of use.

Full listed buildings guidance

Listed Building

Just so you know...