A background briefing on listed buildings from English Heritage

Why are buildings listed?

Buildings are listed in order to identify the most architecturally or historically important buildings in the country and protect them by making sure their special interest is taken fully into account in the future. They can be listed because of their age, rarity, architectural merit or method of construction.

How does it happen?

Anyone can suggest a building to English Heritage for listing. We examine the case and give our advice back to the Secretary of State for the Department of Culture Media and Sport (DCMS). The Secretary of State may also take the advice of other experts and then makes the final decision. The Secretary of State cannot consider any factors other than architectural or historic interest.

How old does a building have to be?

The older a building is, the more likely it is to be listed. All buildings built before 1700 which survive in anything like their original condition are listed, as are most of those built between 1700 and 1840. After that date greater selectivity is required. A building has normally to be over 30 years old to be eligible for listing.

What do the different grades mean?

The grades reflect the relative architectural and historic interest of buildings:

- Grade I buildings are of exceptional interest and are considered to be internationally important.

- Grade II* buildings are particularly important buildings of more than special interest.

- Grade II buildings are nationally important and of special interest. The 93% of all listed buildings are in this class and it is the most likely grade of listing for a home owner.

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