Your guide to listed building home insurance

What Is a Listed Building?

A listed building is a structure recognised for its architectural or historic importance. These properties are classified into different grades. Grade I is for exceptional interest. Grade II* is for particularly important sites. Grade II is for those of special interest. If you own a listed property, you may have to follow specific rules and regulations around what and how to repair and renovate your buildings and their interiors.

Guide to Maintenance and Repairs

Listed buildings can need regular maintenance to prevent issues from escalating. Here are several key factors:

Regular inspections

Conduct routine checks to identify early signs of damage, such as damp, cracked masonry, or deteriorating woodwork.

Pay special attention to roofs, chimneys, gutters, and drainage systems, as these can be vulnerable to damage in older properties.

Use traditional materials

Repairs must be carried out using specialist materials that match the original structure, such as lime mortar, slate, or timber. Avoid modern substitutes like cement or PVC, which can harm the building’s integrity.

Employ skilled professionals

Hire conservation specialists, such as architects, builders, and surveyors, experienced in working with listed properties.

Ensure that contractors are familiar with the nuances of listed building regulations because you may need their help when you’re applying for permissions from Local Planning Authorities.

Address damp and weathering

Many listed buildings suffer from damp due to their construction methods. Address moisture issues by ensuring proper ventilation, repairing leaks, and using breathable insulation materials.

Keep stone or brick exteriors clean but avoid abrasive methods that could cause irreversible damage.

Obtain listed building consent

Before making any alterations, secure consent from your local planning authority. In some cases, making unauthorised changes to a listed building can be illegal and could invalidate your insurance policy.

Planning for the unexpected

Even with meticulous care, listed buildings can be impacted by certain events, such as storm damage, accidental fires, or structural issues uncovered during routine repairs. Listed Building Home Insurance provides financial peace of mind, covering the cost of reinstating the property to its original state.

Emergency repairs

Ensure your insurance policy allows for emergency repairs to stabilize the building while permanent restoration work is arranged.

Keep records of all maintenance and repairs to support any claims.

Download our complimentary maintenance guide here

What Listed Building Insurance Covers

Listed building insurance is a specialised type of property insurance designed for buildings of historical or architectural significance that are protected under national preservation laws. These properties are classified as “listed” because of their cultural importance. Listed building home insurance provides coverage tailored to the unique needs of these properties, addressing risks that standard home insurance might not cover. Insurance for listed homes typically includes:

Structural repairs and restoration

One of the key elements of listed building insurance is coverage for structural damage caused by events like fires, storms, or accidental damage. Since listed buildings require restoration to their original state, insurance can cover the cost of repairs or rebuild using approved materials and traditional techniques. This often includes sourcing specialist craftsmen or materials to ensure compliance with legal and conservation requirements.

Property features

The policy typically extends to cover unique or historic features of the building, such as ornate plasterwork, timber framing, stained glass windows, or period fireplaces. These elements can be costly to replace or restore, and listed building insurance accounts for their high value and the specific expertise required for repairs.

Contents and fixtures

While primarily focused on the structure, many policies offer additional coverage for the contents of the building, including antiques or period furniture, if owned by the property owner. Fixtures and fittings, such as bespoke cabinetry or built-in historical features, are also often included in the coverage.

Legal and professional Fees

Given the legal obligations associated with listed buildings, insurance often covers expenses related to obtaining permissions or adhering to regulations during repairs. This includes planning consents, architectural consultations, and surveys needed to meet listed status requirements.

Alternative accommodation

If the property becomes uninhabitable due to an insured event, the policy typically covers the cost of temporary accommodation for the occupants until the building is restored.

Liability protection

Many listed building insurance policies include liability coverage. This protects the homeowner against claims from third parties, such as visitors or contractors, for injuries or damages sustained on the property.

However, it’s important to note that listed building insurance may not cover wear and tear, gradual deterioration, or unauthorised alterations. Owners are responsible for maintaining the property to prevent avoidable damage.