Why BS 7913 Matters for Homeowners, Buyers and Developers
BS 7913:2013 – Guide to the Conservation of Historic Buildings is a key British Standard that sets out best practices for inspecting, managing, and maintaining traditional and historic buildings. Whether you’re a homeowner with a Victorian terrace, a buyer considering a listed property, or a developer working on Georgian heritage assets, understanding this guide is essential.
Unlike outdated industry approaches that rely heavily on chemical treatments and invasive repairs, BS 7913 promotes a holistic, minimal intervention philosophy. This guide focuses on accurate diagnosis, sustainable methods, and preserving the character and fabric of buildings.
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The Problem with Traditional Damp and Timber Surveys
One of the most crucial aspects of BS 7913 is its guidance on dampness, timber decay, and insect infestation in historic buildings. The Standard directly challenges the outdated requirement often cited by mortgage valuers:
“We require a timber and damp survey by a member of the Property Care Association (PCA).”
– Standard Mortgage Lender Recommendation, 2025
This phrase has led to widespread unnecessary chemical treatments, inappropriate interventions, and permanent damage to period properties. According to BS 7913:
“In most cases, chemical treatment is unnecessary.”
– BS 7913
Instead, it encourages intelligent, cost-effective diagnosis—emphasising issues like ground levels, ventilation, and moisture control.
Learn more about our surveys of traditional properties here
Key Takeaways from BS 7913: Condition and Diagnosis
BS 7913 provides practical guidance on how to:
- Assess moisture and water ingress
- Understand structural movement
- Identify fungal and insect attack
- Implement preventive maintenance with minimal environmental impact
Highlights from Section 6.1:
- Timber decay is typically moisture-related; maintain timber moisture content below 20% to halt fungal activity—no chemicals required.
- Insecticidal treatment should be a last resort, and only when absolutely necessary.
- Damp issues are often due to poor drainage, impermeable materials, or ventilation issues—not rising damp.
“Precautionary treatment should not be applied to unaffected timbers.”
See Historic England’s guidance on damp and timber decay.
The Environmental and Legal Consequences of Misguided Treatment
BS 7913 also addresses the ecological impact of indiscriminate chemical spraying, especially in bat-inhabited roof spaces, where toxic treatments can be illegal without a license.
“Insecticidal treatment might require licenses for protected species and can cause environmental damage.”
This is especially relevant for developers and surveyors who may unknowingly breach wildlife protection laws.
Refer to Natural England’s bat conservation licensing.
Repointing and Mortar Repairs: Avoiding Unnecessary Damage
BS 7913 makes it clear that repointing should only occur when absolutely necessary. Overzealous use of hard cement mortars can accelerate masonry decay.
- Only repoint where mortar is significantly deteriorated
- Use unpowered hand tools—never disc cutters
- Avoid hard cement in favour of breathable lime mortars
Read our guide to traditional materials.
Designing Alterations and Reinstatements: Reversibility is Key
When altering a historic building, BS 7913 encourages reversibility—meaning any change should be removable without permanent damage.
It also guides decision-making on reinstating lost features, urging professionals to assess:
- Historical evidence of original features
- Practicality of reinstatement
- Impact on significance and value
Is BS 7913 Only for Specialists? Absolutely Not.
While some of its language (e.g., “strategic conservation management plans”) may seem off-putting, BS 7913 is intended for everyone involved with historic buildings, including:
- Homeowners and occupiers
- Builders and contractors
- Local councils and planning authorities
- Surveyors, architects, and developers
This inclusive approach is crucial at a time when formal guidance is being reduced and poor practices proliferate.
How to Use BS 7913 to Protect Your Property
To make the most of BS 7913:
- Buy and read a copy – it’s an investment in your property’s future.
- Share it with your surveyor or contractor before any work.
- Challenge mortgage valuation reports that insist on PCA reports.
- Refer to Section 6.1 and 6.2 for guidance on assessing timber, damp, and moisture.
- Use it as a basis for listed building consent decisions and conservation planning.
Facing pushback from a valuer?
f you’re working with or buying a historic building, ensure your surveyor is conservation-aware and familiar with BS 7913. Challenge any recommendation based on chemical treatment without a proper environmental diagnosis. It’s not just about compliance, it’s about caring for the buildings that carry our heritage.
Need help navigating BS 7913? Contact Fourth Wall Building Consultancy for expert conservation advice and surveys grounded in best practice.
Speak to an Expert TodayFrequently Asked Questions
What is BS 7913:2013?
BS 7913:2013 is the British Standard for the conservation of historic buildings. It provides best practice guidance for inspecting, maintaining, and making alterations to traditional and heritage structures.
Is BS 7913 legally binding?
No, it’s not law. However, it is a recognised best practice guide and can be used to support planning applications, building surveys, and conservation strategies.
How can BS 7913 help me avoid unnecessary damp treatments?
BS 7913 outlines that damp is often caused by environmental factors and not rising damp. It promotes practical, non-invasive solutions like improving ventilation, rather than costly and damaging chemical treatments.
Do banks accept BS 7913-based surveys?
Currently, many banks still insist on PCA surveys, but BS 7913 offers a strong, authoritative counterpoint that surveyors and homeowners can use to challenge this outdated requirement.
Where can I get a copy of BS 7913?
You can purchase the full standard via the British Standards Institution (BSI).
