Can you Change a Fireplace in a Grade 2 Listed Building?

Fireplaces are a very common feature in older properties. However, while some people might wish to keep these authentic original pieces, we often see property owners looking to upgrade their existing fireplaces.

This is because modern fireplaces usually offer a far higher performance standard, are much easier to maintain, and are available in a huge variety of designs.

In the case of some older properties, however, changing a fireplace might not be a straightforward task. In fact, if your property is a listed building, you might first need to gain planning permission.

Below, we’ve provided specific guidance for owners of Grade 2 listed buildings, including a detailed breakdown of what you can and can’t do with any fireplaces in your property.

Why is planning permission required for changes to Grade 2 listed properties?

For any major changes to Grade 2 listed properties, planning permission is required.

This is because Grade 2 listed properties are deemed to be of special significance, either for their architecture or history.

Grade 2 listed properties can include properties that have a key contribution to cultural heritage, are of historical interest, or are a great example of the architecture of a specific era, for example.

So, the requirement of planning permission means that these properties are legally protected against any changes that could negatively impact them. Planning permission is designed to prevent inappropriate changes to the property, conserve any important features, and ensure that any changes respect the property’s historical significance.

This way, these important properties can be owned and lived in, while still being preserved for the future.

What can’t you do with fireplaces in a Grade 2 listed building?

In the UK, fireplaces are included under the planning permission requirements for Grade 2 listed buildings.

This means that, before altering the fireplace in a Grade 2 listed building, you will need to get planning permission.

Furthermore, if you want to alter, remove or replace the fireplace in your property, there are a number of restrictions in place, which could impact your ability to do so.

Although these restrictions can vary depending on the specific property and the local area, common limitations for fireplaces in Grade 2 listed buildings include:

• Removal – if the existing fireplace is an authentic original feature, it is unlikely that you would get permission to remove it.
• Alteration – you may be prevented from significantly altering an original fireplace. For example, this could include adding or removing the chimney, or its tiles or surrounds.
• Materials choice – for any repairs or replacements, you may be required to choose appropriate materials. If so, these would need to fit with the existing structure, and be authentic to the time period of the property.
• Adhere to conservation standards – in fact, in some cases, if the fireplace cannot be repaired and needs to be removed, you might be required to find a replica fireplace to replace it with.
• Moving – you might need planning permission to move the fireplace to another part of the property.
• Altering the finish – these restrictions may also apply to any original finishes, such as any original fireplace tiles.

It is also important to note that, if the fireplace itself has any historical or cultural significance, then it is highly likely that these regulations will be even stricter.

What can you do with fireplaces in a Grade 2 listed building?

You can still make some changes to your fireplace, even if it is in a Grade 2 listed building.

Although alterations and improvements are allowed, they are only granted in specific circumstances. What’s more, the changes still need to be deemed appropriate, and respectful of the property’s history.

Some examples of things that you can do with fireplaces in a Grade 2 listed building include:

• • • Restoration
    • Repairs (as long as they are conservation-appropriate)
    • Cleaning
    • Maintenance
    • The replacement of non-original elements
    • Adding any missing features or components
    • Adding fireplace fire safety equipment
    • Modernising (so long as this is done in a conservation-appropriate way)

If you have any questions about your planned fireplace alteration, or if you aren’t sure what is permissible for your specific property, speak to a local heritage professional or a fireplace specialist. They will be able to advise you, and help you find the best fit solution for your property, while remaining in-line with planning permission requirements.

What do you need to be aware of when renovating a Grade 2 listed property?

When it comes to renovating a Grade 2 listed property, there are a number of specific points that you need to be aware of. These include restrictions, regulations that you will need to consider, and bodies that you will need to be in contact with, before your renovation can proceed.

The key considerations that Grade 2 listed property owners will need to adhere to include:

• • • Listed Building Consent
    • Planning permission
    • Conservation principles – and what conservation-appropriate changes mean for your specific property
    • The requirements of your local planning authority
    • Record keeping and documentation of the renovation process
    • The preservation of existing, original historical features – in addition to your fireplace, this could also include its surrounds, decorations and the property’s chimney.

If you have any further questions about fireplaces in Grade 2 listed buildings, or if you are looking for a fireplace specialist with experience working with listed properties, speak to the Rotherham Fireplace Centre today.