1. Is my building listed?
You can check by searching the Buildings Databases on the EHS website or contact Historic Buildings Unit
2. Can I get Historic Buildings grant to help with improvements to my property?
No. EHS will only grant aid items of repair and maintenance to the fabric of historic listed buildings where it can be demonstrated that the works are necessary and when it is carried out to the required EHS standards.
3..Can I get any help with professional fees?
We may offer assistance with reasonable professional fees up to a maximum of 75% incurred in relation to eligible works.
4..How do I find out about VAT?
For all VAT queries you should contact HM customs and revenue at www.hmrc.gov.uk.
Churches may be eligible for a VAT rebate through the Listed Places of Worship Scheme, details of which can be found on http://www.lpwscheme.org.uk
5..If I do not want to employ a professional advisor for the scheme can I still get grant?
EHS expects that professional advisors will be engaged on all schemes where EHS consider it appropriate. However, in minor schemes this requirement may be waived.
6..What elements of work does EHS grant aid?
Normally the elements of work will be:
This list is not exhaustive.
7. What approvals do I need to have?
If it is proposed to carry out repairs, alterations or demolitions which would affect the character of a listed building, then Listed Building Consent must be obtained. Your divisional Planning Office (www.planningni.gov.uk ) will advise you on whether the proposed works will require Listed Building Consent and can supply you with the appropriate application forms. In many cases a separate application for Planning Permission will also be required. The Divisional Planning Office can give you further advice.
Listed Building Consent is not required before carrying out maintenance and repairs which do not affect your building’s character.
EHS Area architects will need to approve the works.
8. I am an owner/occupier. Do I have to allow public access to my property if I accept grant?
EHS encourages all listed building owners who avail of grant aid to consider ways of providing public access to their property and to take part in the annual European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) event. If you are the owner of a property that normally has public access EHS will expect participation in EHOD.
9. How long does it take to process my application?
It can take around 6 months (assuming that you have provided all required information) to finalise an agreed scheme. In some cases minor schemes can be dealt with much quicker than this.
10. If I receive grant from other sources can I still apply to the EHS Historic Building Grant Scheme?
Yes, in most cases. You will need to provide full details of any other funders before we can decide.
11. I have already applied for grant under the old scheme. Can I apply for the new scheme?
You will need to discuss with the Grants team at the following contact numbers (028 90 53072, 028 90 543073 and 90 543038).
12. What is the position regarding grant-aid for churches and Ecclesiastical Exemption?
Ecclesiastical buildings are currently treated differently from other buildings within our legislation - they are (in effect) exempt from the normal Listed Building Consent controls as they apply to demolition, alteration or extension of a listed building. Following our public consultation, we propose to give this issue further thought. This will involve a review of the comments received as part of the consultation exercise and we will also be undertaking further consultation with Church Groups.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Historic Buildings Unit on numbers 028 90 543058 or 028 90. 543075.