Conservation: self-assessment guide

If you wish to make external improvements or alterations to your property, paintwork, signs, garden or surrounds, perhaps you will consider the following:

• Look at the front of your property from a distance. Note down its original and distinctive features. Are there any that seem more recent or seem out of character with the original features of your own property or those nearby?
• Now try standing closer to the house and note the details of the building. Roof, chimneys, eaves, windows, doors, brick or stonework etc.
• Next, repeat the process on each side of your property in order to get the full picture.
• Then examine the guidelines in this document and follow them.
• Consider the changes you have in mind. Will they be in keeping with the characteristics and details you have noted down? If not, consider how else your ultimate objective may be achieved in a manner that preserves the heritage of the property.
• Might the changes you have in mind remove some of the uncharacteristic features you have noted?
• Finally, it is suggested that you check your ideas with a builder or an architect, or the Planning team at Daventry District Council, who may suggest improvements.