Discuss the proposed work first
A listed building’s interest can include its interior, layout, materials and details as well as its exterior. An original floor or plaster finish may therefore be relevant when planning access to a suspected leak.
Ask ADI what the investigation is expected to involve, then discuss any work that could affect protected fabric with the relevant planning authority or your conservation adviser. Owner permission to enter a room is different from statutory permission to alter it.
Not every repair requires listed building consent, and investigations are not universally exempt. The decision depends on the proposal and the building.
Listed building consent in England
Seek advice from the local planning authority or conservation officer before work that may affect the listed building’s special interest. The proposed method, extent and materials are relevant to deciding whether listed building consent is needed.
Historic England’s Listed Building Consent advice note explains the approach. Its heritage consents guidance also distinguishes the different permissions that may apply.
Listed building consent in Wales
Cadw’s guidance highlights historic form, layout, materials and details inside and outside the building. Even where a proposed repair appears like-for-like, check with the local planning authority before assuming no consent is needed.
Read Cadw’s guidance on listed building consent and explain the particular access or work being considered.
Listed building consent in Scotland
Discuss proposed changes with the planning authority before carrying them out. Listed building consent is required for changes that may affect the building’s character.
Historic Environment Scotland’s consent guidance is the relevant national starting point. The authority can advise on the individual proposal.
Linking the leak investigation and consent
Useful information includes the area affected, the proposed access, any original finishes and advice already received. Agree who will speak to the authority or adviser, and tell ADI about the resulting restrictions.
ADI provides the agreed leak investigation. It is not presented here as a conservation practice or as an authority-approved heritage service. Its report may support the next conversation, but does not itself grant permission for work.
For practical visit arrangements, see preparing access. This general guidance was checked against the linked national sources on 10 September 2026; obtain advice for your building and proposal.