Extensions for listed buildings

Extending a listed building is something that requires sensible project planning there are several important factors that must be planned out and agreed prior to building works commencing. Many people do not realise but it is actually a criminal offence to alter a listed building without listed building consent. So it may well be necessary to obtain listed building consent, planning permission and building regulation approval before you even break ground. It is the conservation department who hold the responsibility of managing the approval of alterations and repairs to listed buildings and those buildings within conservation areas.
They will decide if your proposal keeps within the character, flavor and appearance of the original building and uses the same materials and techniques that were used in the original construction.
This can make extensions to listed buildings expensive; however the good news is that these repairs or alterations are zero rated for VAT. So you need to make sure your contractor is VAT registered and that he makes the necessary arrangements with the local VAT department so he can charge you zero VAT.