Whether you are just acquiring a listed property or if you already own one, navigating your way around the planning and listed building consent system can seem daunting and we are very happy to assist and guide you through it.  We specialise in residential and commercial listed property and can help you get the most from your property.

We understand the special nature of listed properties and have a real passion for the protection, restoration and enjoyment of such properties.  Many listed properties have been altered without the necessary permissions and we can help you put things right or devise an alternative solution. We have many trusted specialist architect and surveyor partners who can also help if you have a particular project in mind.

The implications of owning a listed property extend further than consent issues. They are, by their very nature, old and have special needs with regards to energy efficiency and insurance, and often may be affected by old rights or obligations. Listed properties are also prone to boundary disputes so our Litigation and Disputes team can assist if you help in this area.

For those who run a business from their listed property, our Commercial and Property teams are here to help you negotiate the legal minefields you may encounter.

We can also provide support for you and your family and have a responsive Private Client team who can assist you with tax or trust issues and prepare wills.

With offices in both London and the South East, we provide a personal and highly professional service to all of our clients, both UK based and globally.

We can advise in the following specialist areas:

Property

• Sales and purchases of residential and commercial property
• All aspects of agricultural property
• Planning and development
• Rights of way and access
• Title issues and first registration
• Viticulture
• Leisure Use
• Strategic land and property development

Litigation and Dispute Resolution

• Landlord and tenant disputes
• Securing possession of land/property
• Enforcement notices
• Partnership disputes
• Negligence, nuisance and trespass claims
• Tribunals
• EU regulations
• Boundary disputes
• Environmental and health & safety issues

Estate and Succession Planning

• Wills and estate planning
• Trust advice
• Personal taxation
• Powers of Attorney

 Commercial Matters

• Business structures (including partnerships)
• Joint venture agreements
• Contract farming
• Share agreements
• Sale and purchase of businesses
• Employment issues

Listed properties are unique…

• Only  500,000 houses in Britain are listed.
• Listing means that your home or business property needs more protection than ordinary properties.
• There are different Grades of Listing: Grade II, II* and I. Grade II is the most common.
• The special protection is enforced through local government: there is special consent – Listed Building Consent (LBC) – that you will need to make any changes to your property.
• Like for like repairs are allowed without LBC, but these must use the same items or materials.
• LBCs may be needed even if you don’t need planning or building regulation consent.
• The interior and exterior of a listed building is protected, including any curtilage or external area.
• Failure to obtain such a consent is a criminal offence. You can be prosecuted and face a jail sentence or a fine.
• Most councils choose to serve Enforcement Notices on properties where there have been unauthorised changes. In most cases, these require restoration to the original features and will specify a time limit. Failure to comply with an Enforcement Notice is also a criminal offence.
• Selling historic features from a protected building may also be an offence.

Help and advice can be obtained from your local authority Conservation Officer or from English Heritage.