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What you need to be aware of when purchasing a heritage property.
Heritage properties have great appeal, but there are rules and restrictions that you may not be aware of. Here are a few things you need to know.
What is a heritage property?
A heritage property has historic, aesthetic or social features that have been assessed to be worth preserving for generations to come. Heritage properties are not always from the 19th century. Many homes from the 1970s or later are potentially considered to have heritage value.
What is a heritage overlay?
A heritage overlay can be considered as significant, contributory and non-contributory. Heritage Victoria can provide a detailed outline for each of these.
Regardless of their status, properties covered by a heritage overlay usually need a planning permit from the council for any changes that are obvious from the street, such as demolition, relocation or construction of buildings, external alterations and exterior painting. As a rule, permits are not required for general maintenance and repairs, internal alterations, and repainting using the same colours.
What obligations are required of a heritage home owner?
Anyone who owns a heritage-listed property is legally obliged to maintain it and ensure it does not fall into disrepair. Failure to do so may result in Heritage Victoria issuing a repair order, and heavy penalties apply if the required repairs are not carried out.
Can I renovate a heritage-listed property?
It’s possible to renovate or make changes to a heritage-listed property, as long as you have permission from Heritage Victoria. In most cases the heritage protection applies to the entire property, including land and buildings, so you’ll need a permit if you want to remove trees, demolish out-buildings or move a fence.
If you're considering purchasing a heritage property, visit Heritage Victoria website to find out all your obligations that are required for a Heritage property.
Article information courtesy of RACV: 10 questions to ask before buying a heritage house