Court Design & Conservation

read moreAndrew Hayes BSc DipBldgCons MRICS IHBC is a Chartered Building Surveyor who was elected a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in 1987. In 1997 he established Court Design & Conservation to specialise in historic buildings and to assist their owners through the issues peculiar to these unique buildings and settings. He holds the RICS Diploma in Building Conservation and is a member of the RICS Conservation Forum and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. At the beginning of 2003 he was elected a member of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation.

read moreA pre-purchase survey is one of the most valuable documents that any potential new owner should have in their possession before completing a building purchase, even more so when it relates to a period or protected building. The detailed report describes the form of construction, the condition of accessible elements and provides initial advice on any repairs and appropriate methods of implementing them. The report also provides the purchaser with a clear picture of what they are about to get involved in.

read moreThis also applies to any object or structure fixed to the listed building or which forms part of its historic curtilage. Conservation Officer to establish what alterations may be considered appropriate and acceptable within the confines of the protected building and curtilage. Do not buy an old building unless you are prepared to accept its particular character and quirks. It is essential that you adapt to it rather than trying to impose inappropriate alterations and extensions on to it. In addition to the legal action further enforcement action in order to remedy the damage or reinstate the building as it was may be taken against the owner of the building (current owner) and there is no time limit for this enforcement action.

read moreThe renovation or change of use of an historic building requires great care, a sympathetic approach and a thorough understanding of the building's development. All Court Design & Conservation design proposals come from a developed philosophy that respects the existing building, understands its history, uses materials and methods to preserve and enhance the existing building whilst at the same time providing for the long term survival of the building.