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READERS QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
"A Listed building is defined as one which is of special architectural or historic interest, which has been included in a "List"compiled by the Government as required by Act of Parliament. The term"building" as used in the Town and Country Planning Act covers a wide range man-made structures and can include things such as bridges, walls, gates, telephone boxes, village pumps and many others. Once buildings are added to the List they are placed in one of three grades. Grade 1 (1.4% of the total) and grade 11* (4.1% of the total) are for the most important buildings, nationally. The majority (94.5%) are Listed Grade 11."
Given the layout of the property and the effects such works would have, I confirm that planning approval would not be required. I do believe however, that Listed Building Consent may be necessary depending upon the extent of the alterations or whether excessive damage would be caused to the fabric of the building by the works. I suggest that, as the works are minor, you contact your Conservation Officer direct, and revert to us if there are any problems. Q. I would
like details please of grant availabilities for re-thatching and
loft insulation? I have contacted your Conservation Officer regarding grants for re-thatching. He will come out to your property and inspect the roof. The grant available in your particular area is means tested although this is not always the case. It would be advisable to obtain three quotes from thatchers before your Officer arrives. We can organise this for you if you so wish. There are a number of avenues available to obtain grants for loft insulation. The first is the Home Energy Efficiency Scheme which is a national grant, and the telephone number for further information is: 0800 3166 011. Another option is to contact both your electricity and gas supplier. You will need to contact them direct as the householders themselves must make the application. They have a number of schemes for loft insulation. Finally, I have contacted your local council and have enclosed a contact name and telephone number as there is a 30% discount on loft insulation schemes which they are currently running themselves.
Is there anything specific we need to be aware of in terms of insuring
a thatched house? Anything
else I should be aware of when contemplating buying such a property?
Any pointers would be gratefully received. A.Because you have so many different questions, I am posting you one of our fact sheets to start with. This answers many of your questions regarding maintenance of the roof, costs involved etc, as well as information on open fires, wood burning stoves etc. I suggest you contact our Specialists Insurance Division on 01406 330007. They will be able to personally advise you and provide a quote. If you wish to have the property surveyed, please give us a call and we will organise it for you. Q. I have recently purchased a thatched property in Kent and have had the local thatcher to advise on the condition of the roof. He has recommended a total stripping of the roof and re-thatching at a considerable cost. I understand there are independent semi-retired thatchers who will visit a property and provide a less biased opinion, can you help? P Flanagan,
Via E-mail
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