Restoration Case Studies
Explore examples of our independent historic building assessments, defect investigations and restoration cost advice, drawing on 40 years of practical experience. These projects demonstrate how identifying serious building defects and accurately costing repairs can protect property owners from substantial financial losses.
The completed project included extensive timber frame repairs and replacements, removal of inappropriate modern materials and restoration using traditional, compatible building methods.
Grade II Listed Timber-Framed Townhouse Restoration
The Issue
An inadequate structural survey failed to identify serious defects affecting the historic timber-framed building. The gable end was structurally unsafe and required extensive remedial works, including complete rebuilding.
The defects represented a substantial and unexpected financial liability for the property owner.
Our Involvement
Drawing on 40 years of practical historic building restoration experience, we identified the significant building defects, assessed the necessary remedial works and provided detailed written quotations with itemised restoration costs.
Our findings and costings helped establish the extent of the required repairs and the financial implications of restoring the property.
The Outcome
The property owner successfully pursued a legal claim against the original surveying company and obtained substantial compensation towards the necessary structural repairs and restoration.
The project involved rebuilding the unsafe gable end and carrying out extensive repairs to the historic timber-framed structure.
Grade II Listed Thatched Cottage
The Issue
An inadequate building survey failed to identify significant structural defects, deteriorating timber framing and the damaging effects of inappropriate modern building materials. Cement-based renders, modern paint finishes and internal plasters were restricting moisture movement and contributing to the deterioration of the historic building.
Our Involvement
Drawing on 40 years of practical restoration experience, we investigated the defects, identified the necessary timber frame replacements and repairs, and recommended the removal of inappropriate cement renders, modern paint finishes and internal plasters.
We provided a detailed written quotation with itemised costs for the necessary restoration works, including the use of appropriate traditional, breathable materials.
We also referred the client to independent heritage consultants for listed building consent advice and suitably qualified structural engineers for specialist structural assessments.
The Outcome
The property owner successfully pursued a legal claim against the original surveying company and obtained substantial compensation towards the necessary restoration works.
Pre-Purchase Assessment – Over £150,000 Negotiated Off the Asking Price
Historic Thatched Cottage – Comprehensive Assessment & Restoration Cost Advice
Heritage House Advisory carried out a comprehensive pre-purchase assessment of this historic thatched cottage, identifying significant defects and the extensive restoration works required.
The assessment included detailed recommendations and itemised costings for substantial rebuilding of external walls, timber frame repairs and replacement panels, removal of inappropriate materials, internal refurbishment using traditional lime plaster, external brickwork, an oak-framed extension, and complete electrical and plumbing installations.
Armed with a clear understanding of the property’s condition and anticipated restoration costs, the purchasers successfully negotiated a reduction of over £150,000 from the asking price before proceeding with their purchase.
The Outcome: Independent technical advice and realistic restoration cost assessments enabled the clients to make an informed purchasing decision and achieve a substantial reduction in the purchase price.