Old buildings, handled with care.

What is listed building consent?

Listed building consent is a separate permission, granted under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, needed for any works that affect the special architectural or historic interest of a listed building. It applies to the whole building inside and out, and often to attached structures, boundary walls and outbuildings within the curtilage. It is required alongside planning permission where both apply.

When is listed building consent required — and when is it not?

Consent is required for alterations, extensions and demolition that affect character: changing windows or doors, removing internal walls, chimneypieces or staircases, replastering, rewiring routes, new bathrooms and kitchens, roof coverings, rooflights and satellite dishes. It is generally not required for genuine like-for-like repair using matching materials and methods, or for redecoration. The boundary between repair and alteration is where most disputes arise, so it is worth confirming before starting.

Grade II listed building restrictions

Around 92% of listed buildings in England are grade II. Grading does not change the legal test — all grades receive the same protection — it reflects relative significance. In practice grade I and II* buildings attract closer scrutiny and Historic England consultation, while grade II work is usually determined by the borough's conservation officer.

How long does listed building consent take, and what does it cost?

The statutory determination period is eight weeks from validation, and there is no application fee for listed building consent itself, though planning fees apply where a parallel planning application is needed. Consent lasts three years from the date granted unless a condition says otherwise.

Unauthorised work and enforcement

Carrying out work to a listed building without consent is a criminal offence, and there is no time limit on enforcement. Where work has already happened, we prepare retrospective applications and heritage justification to regularise the position.

Also need planning permission? See planning applications →

Conservation areas across London

London has over a thousand conservation areas. Even where a building is not listed, an Article 4 direction inside a conservation area commonly removes rights to change windows, doors, roofs and front boundary treatments. We check both designations together before advising.