Consultancy and reports

Historic Building Condition Reports

Nationwide service with particular expertise in historic timber-framed buildings.

For over 20 years we’ve combined hands-on conservation with postgraduate study and ongoing research. Our condition surveys diagnose causes of decay, set out practical remedies, and help you make confident decisions—whether you’re buying, selling or planning repairs.

When to commission a survey

• Pre-Sale – understand the building’s condition, set a realistic price and reduce renegotiation risks.

• Pre-Purchase – specialist insight rarely covered by standard homebuyer surveys (especially for timber frames).

• Concern or Defect – investigate specific issues (movement, moisture ingress, failed repairs, inappropriate materials).

• Planning, Grants & Management – evidence for applications and long-term maintenance planning.

What we survey

Reports can focus on a single timber, one panel, an elevation, or the entire building—depending on your aims and budget.

What you receive (every report)

• Clear findings in plain English.

• Root-cause diagnosis (e.g., moisture ingress or inappropriate modern materials).

• Prioritised recommendations with conservation-based repair options.

Levels of reporting

1) Verbal Report (on site)

A concise on-the-day debrief identifying areas of concern.
Best for: a quick sense check.
Limitations: no written document; no repair scheme.

2) Simple Written Report

A short written summary of the principal defects with an outline repair strategy.
Best for: straightforward issues and early decision-making.

3) Detailed Written Report (comprehensive)

A thorough investigation describing primary and secondary timbers, all areas of concern, and a bespoke repair schemefor each element, considering:

• Position within the frame and load paths

• Required flexibility of joints and members

• Historic features (e.g., redundant mortices)

• Longevity, material retention and visual impact

• Environment, exposure and future use of the building

• Visibility of repairs (honest, readable conservation)

Included deliverables:

• Scaled elevation drawings keyed to each defect/observation

• Annotated photographs and repair diagrams

• Component-by-component structural appraisal

• Noted historical features and any available contextual history

Optional add-on: full methodology/specifications for each repair (for use by a contractor if we’re not undertaking the work).

Nationwide availability

Our consultancy and reporting services are available nationwide. (Hands-on conservation work is delivered locally from North Yorkshire and West Sussex—see our coverage on the homepage.)

Ready to book a survey?
Contact us for an initial conversation and we’ll recommend the most suitable level of report for your needs.

See examples of our Condition Reports Here

Contact us to commission a report on your historic home.

Telephone 07748758569 or Email rolandlocke@hbcandr.com

Historic Building Interpretation & Recording Reports

Nationwide service

A Historic Building Interpretation is a research-based study that draws on documentary sources and architectural evidence to create a written record of a building’s social, architectural and historical development.

Why commission an interpretation?

Interpretation and recording may be required for:

• Planning or grant applications – supporting heritage statements and conservation proposals.

• Environmental or impact assessments – providing historical context and analysis.

• Property management – guiding conservation, repair and alteration decisions.

• Personal interest – uncovering the story of your home, its construction, and its former inhabitants.

• Genealogical research – linking family history to place.

Our approach

We believe a sound understanding of a building’s past is the foundation for any conservation decision. Our work includes:

• Detailed on-site surveys of cottages, barns, farmhouses, town houses, pubs, factories and more.

• Analysis of architectural style, features, design and construction methods.

• Exploration of cellars, attics and other hidden spaces to trace building evolution.

• Archival and documentary research in local records and archives.

• Measured drawings and photographic records.

What you receive

A clear, illustrated written report that sets out:

• The development and history of your building in its regional and chronological context.

• Evidence of repairs and alterations carried out over time.

• Insight into the building’s design, function and social story.

• Information that helps shape future conservation decisions — and gives you a fascinating record of your home.

Interested in uncovering your building’s history?
Contact us to discuss commissioning an Interpretation Report.

See examples of our Interpretations here

Telephone 07748758569 or Email rolandlocke@hbcandr.com

Historic Building Significance & Impact Reports

Nationwide service

Preserving the significance of historic buildings is not just a matter of care and respect — it is often a legal requirement. Local authorities frequently request a Significance or Impact Report to support a Listed Building Consent application. These reports help decision-makers understand a building’s cultural importance and the potential effect of proposed works, whether repairs, additions, or alterations.

Why these reports matter

• Planning & permissions – essential for Listed Building Applications and approvals.

• Heritage compliance – align with local and national conservation standards.

• Risk reduction – avoid costly delays, redesigns or legal challenges.

• Evidence of care – demonstrate your due diligence to conservation officers and heritage bodies.

• Future sustainability – provide a framework for long-term stewardship.

Our expertise

With over 20 years’ hands-on conservation experience, we combine practical repair knowledge with academic study and regulatory insight. Our reports are:

• Compliant with the standards required by national and local heritage agencies.

• Detailed in their assessment of cultural, architectural, and historical value.

• Practical in setting out the impact of your proposed works.

• Proactive in recommending ways to mitigate or minimise harm.

What you receive

A clear, professional report that:

• Explains your building’s historic significance and cultural value.

• Assesses the impact of proposed works.

• Provides recommendations to reduce or avoid harm.

• Supports and strengthens your application to local authorities.

At HBC&R, we take the complexity out of conservation compliance. Our reports allow you to move forward with confidence, knowing your project respects both the law and the legacy of your building.

Planning work on a listed building? Contact us to discuss a Significance or Impact Report.

Contact us today:

Telephone 07748758569 or Email rolandlocke@hbcandr.com