Heritage assets and building regulations
Building regulations set standards for design and construction, in order to ensure reasonable standards of access, health and safety.
The regulations apply to most new buildings, as well as many alterations to existing buildings, including listed buildings.
The building regulations only apply to new work and there is no general requirement to upgrade all existing buildings to meet these standards. Where a building did not comply with the regulations before the alteration, the proposals should be undertaken so that when complete, the building's compliance is equal or, ideally, improved.
You can view current building regulations – GOV.UK.
Heat efficiency and thermal improvements
Listed buildings, buildings within a conservation area and scheduled monuments are exempt from compliance with the energy efficiency requirements of Part L of building regulations, when it can be demonstrated that the requirements would unacceptably alter the character or appearance of these buildings. Some other buildings of historical significance also qualify for special consideration in this guidance.
Part L of the Building Regulations legislation can be downloaded from the gov.uk website.
We’re often asked about window improvements and thermal upgrading in listed buildings. The detailed Historic England guidance on modifying historic windows as part of retrofitting energy saving measures is a good place to start.
Building regulations compliance is monitored and certified in our district by East Midlands Building Control. You should contact them about what regulations will apply to your development project and what procedures you need to follow. Alternatively, there are accredited professionals who can provide building regulations advice and approval on a self-certification basis.