YOUR PROJECT
Rescue checklist.
Start with the owner, the building’s condition, and a plan to keep it in use.
Talk to the owner
Confirm who owns the building and who can approve a sale, lease or repair project. Ask what the local community wants to keep.
Get a condition survey
Use a qualified conservation surveyor. Check the structure, roof, drainage, services and immediate safety work. Ask for a costed repair plan. Don’t enter an unsafe building.
Check the restrictions
Find out which heritage, planning and religious-use permissions apply. Check covenants, access rights and any burial-ground obligations with a local adviser.
Budget for the long term
Include surveys, permissions, specialist repairs, contingency, insurance and annual maintenance. Agree who will run the building and pay its bills.
Questions for the first call
Is the building still available?
What repairs are urgent, and who assessed them?
Which uses are permitted?
Is there a condition survey and repair budget?
What will it cost to maintain each year?
Help without taking ownership
Donate to an official repair appeal or ask the local team which skills it needs. Check whether a donation goes to the named building or to a wider programme. Volunteer work may require training, insurance and supervision.
Rules and costs vary by location. Get local legal, financial and conservation advice before committing.
Find conservation help