There are three key considerations when working with historic buildings and considering their energy efficiency:

1. Understand the building, its heritage significance and how it performs from an energy perspective;
2. The objective of the works being considered and its impact upon the identified significance of the building; and
3. The type of heritage designation e.g. whether the building is listed or in a conservation area.

With regard to Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas, legislation clearly outlines the need to preserve architectural and historical interest in listed buildings and the specialist interest of a Conservation Area. As such the understanding from where a heritage asset draws its own bespoke significance is key to forming acceptable proposals and managing appropriate change.