Heritage Archives - Fourth Wall

The Architecture and History of Cheltenham: Styles, Costs, Comparisons, and Surveying Insights

June 16, 2025 by Pete Nichols

Cheltenham, known as the cultural heart of the Cotswolds, is famed for its stunning Regency architecture, rich heritage, and meticulous town planning. Whether you’re a property buyer, architecture enthusiast, or a homeowner planning a restoration, understanding the architectural styles of Cheltenham, and their historical and structural implications, is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we explore … Read more

What Is ‘Minimum Intervention’ in Building Conservation and Why Does It Matter?

June 16, 2025June 16, 2025 by Joshua Weston BSc (Hons) MRICS

When it comes to building conservation, especially for heritage or listed buildings, one principle stands above the rest: minimum intervention. But what does this concept really mean, why is it so widely adopted in conservation work, and is it always the best approach? This article explores the cost implications, potential drawbacks, alternative conservation strategies, and … Read more

Chemical Damp Treatments: When Are They Really Necessary?

June 19, 2025June 9, 2025 by Joshua Weston BSc (Hons) MRICS

view of chemical damp proofing treatment in Sheffield

Chemical damp-proofing treatments are widely marketed as quick, affordable fixes for moisture problems in buildings—particularly rising damp. But in truth, they are frequently oversold, poorly applied, and often unnecessary, especially in older or traditionally built properties. In this article, we cut through the sales pitch to explore when chemical damp treatments are truly justified, how … Read more

Why ‘Rising Damp’ Is a Myth in Old Buildings—and What You Should Be Doing Instead

June 9, 2025 by Joshua Weston BSc (Hons) MRICS

“Rising damp” is one of the most misused and misunderstood terms in the world of property care and building pathology, especially when it comes to older buildings. Many homeowners, property buyers, and even some less experienced surveyors are led to believe it’s a common and inevitable defect. But is it really? As a Chartered Surveyor, … Read more

BS 7913:2013 – Your Guide to Historic Building Conservation

June 2, 2025 by Joshua Weston BSc (Hons) MRICS

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 … Read more

What to Do if You Discover Unauthorised Works on a Listed Building

May 29, 2025 by Liam Piercy

Owning a listed building is a privilege and a responsibility. These historic properties are protected for their architectural and cultural value, and any changes made without proper consent are a serious matter. But what happens if you discover unauthorised works, either while buying a listed home, or after you’ve already taken ownership? In this guide, … Read more

What to Do if You Discover Unauthorised Works on a Listed Building | Fourth Wall

May 23, 2025 by Liam Piercy

Owning a listed building is a privilege and a responsibility. These properties are protected for their historic and architectural significance, and any alterations, however minor they may seem, are subject to strict controls. But what happens if you uncover unauthorised works on a listed home—whether you’re in the process of buying, or already own it? … Read more

How Do Surveyors Check For Damp?

January 13, 2025 by Joshua Weston BSc (Hons) MRICS

Damp is a common issue that is present in many properties. If you are buying a property it’s good practice to look out for the signs of damp and be aware of the types of damp that may be present. But, how do surveyors check for damp? Surveyors have extensive experience in what to look … Read more

What Is a Heritage Impact Statement? A Guide to Assessing Historic Building Renovations

November 21, 2024October 19, 2024 by Joshua Weston BSc (Hons) MRICS

When planning renovations or development work on a historic building or site, it’s essential to consider its heritage value. This is where a Heritage Impact Statement (often part of a broader Heritage Impact Assessment) comes in. But what exactly is it, and why do you need one? This blog breaks down the key aspects of … Read more

10 Questions To Ask When Buying a Listed Property

September 17, 2024April 5, 2024 by Liam Piercy

It is estimated that there are currently over 500,000 listed buildings in the UK, so you’ll likely come across one when on your property buying journey. If you’re viewing a listed building, whether to live in, or for your business to occupy, you must gather the right bits of information in order to make an … Read more