Category: News
Living in a listed building or a conservation area in the UK is a privilege, but it comes with certain responsibilities, especially when it comes to maintaining the historical integrity of the property. Changing windows and replacing doors in a listed building comes with more to think about compared to an ordinary home, as these elements often define its character and heritage.
So, what do you need to know before taking on a replacement project?
Changing the windows and doors in a listed building
If your property is a listed building, it is protected under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, meaning that you must seek planning permission to replace windows or doors.
All listed buildings in the UK are classified by grade, reflecting their historical or architectural importance. Grade I buildings are of exceptional national interest, Grade II* buildings are particularly important, and Grade II buildings are of special interest. If your property falls under Grade I or Grade II*, your application will likely face more scrutiny, potentially requiring advice from Historic England.
If your windows and doors are original, local authorities will usually prefer you to repair rather than replace them, unless they have deteriorated beyond repair, or a previous owner has installed inappropriate designs.
You can apply for planning permission through the National Planning Portal or by submitting a request directly to your local authority. Without this permission, any work undertaken could be deemed a criminal offence, leading to legal consequences or even the requirement to undo the changes you’ve made at your own expense.
The process usually takes between eight and 13 weeks, depending on the project. This includes a 21-day consultation period where neighbours and other interested parties can comment on your plans.
Planning authorities will expect your new windows or doors to match the original design and construction, or at least replicate their appearance. So, it’s key to find a joinery company who is experienced in heritage work and creating windows or doors for listed buildings. Teams like Tucker Joinery will be able to produce like-for-like replacements of doors and windows, even if they have unusual features or dimensions.
Your joiner should also guide you through the planning process, and work closely with planning officers to ensure that the new windows or doors maintain the historic character of the building.
What about homes in conservation areas?
Even if your property isn’t listed, it may be located within one of the UK’s 10,000+ conservation areas, which aim to preserve the character of historically significant regions. You may still need planning permission to replace doors or windows on properties in these areas, particularly if they are subject to an Article 4 direction, usually the case in places where cultural importance is threatened by development.
Conservation areas have strict standards around retaining the original style and materials used for windows and doors. It’s a good idea to work with joiners who have experience and expertise in creating bespoke timber windows and doors that’ll be sympathetic to the history and culture of the area.
To work with a joiner who knows exactly what’s required when replacing doors and windows on listed buildings and in conservation areas, contact Tucker Joinery today.
