In the United Kingdom, the process of adding important Buildings or monuments to a protected list came about as a result of extensive bomb damaged caused during then Second World War. Enemy action was responsible for a good deal of destruction of important buildings and monuments and owners were often finding it more convenient and economical to simply demolish a building and erect a new structure in its place. In the immediate years after the war, conservation and heritage were not at the forefront of most property owners mind and the government found themselves in the position of having to protect property by statue to stop more buildings from disappearing for ever.
Lists were drawn up of the most important buildings and laws were passed forbidding their alteration or demolition without approval first being obtained. On the whole the scheme has been a success, as years have passed more and more buildings have been added to the lists and much property that would have been lost has been saved for future generations to enjoy.
Listing has now reached almost every area and type of property in the country. Although many owners of listed buildings find some of the rules relating to the upkeep of a property to be fairly cumbersome most are proud to be considered as guardians of our nations architectural heritage.
The responsibility for compiling the list falls under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of State for media and culture and English Heritage plays a big part in deciding what goes on the lists as do members of the public who are often the first to raise alarm bells that a property is in danger.
There is no one reason why a building is placed on the list suffice to say that are building considered has to be “special” for a particular reason that is deemed acceptable to the registration body.
Contrary to many beliefs, a listed building is not always a stately home or indeed such an important structure such as The Tower of London or Buckingham Palace, often listed buildings are small workman cottages that may have been listed simply because of their location or because they have some architectural merit. Often a building is listed because a famous person was once a resident or the area many have been the scene of an important event or battle. As well as dwelling houses, barns, schools, churches, monuments and even telephone boxes have been listed in the past.
Listed buildings fall in to different categories depending on their importance, at the present moment; the following classifications are in existence.
Grade 1- These buildings are considered to be very important and of national and international interest.
Grade2 * These buildings are considered to be of exceptional interest.
Grade 2- These buildings are considered to be of special interest.
In Scotland, the terms A,B, C can be substituted for the above. Owners of listed buildings often find it difficult to obtain insurance. Many of the main stream insurance companies shy way from providing cover as in many cases buildings are deemed to be of non standard construction by modern day standards. Often, the property to be insured will have a good deal of timber in the construction and many also contain other more esoteric building materials pertinent to the location such as Wattle & Dub.
It is possible to obtain insurance for this type of property but it is best to contact a company that specialise in their cover. Remember to always mention the exact construction of the property as this may well have a bearing on the actual premium you are charged.