Heritage Assessment NSW
A heritage assessment evaluates whether a property, building, or place has heritage significance. This process is distinct from a Statement of Heritage Impact, which assesses the effect of proposed works on an already-listed item. Heritage assessments are used to determine whether a place should be heritage listed, or to understand the significance of a property prior to planning decisions.
Who Needs a Heritage Assessment?
- —Property owners who want to understand if their property has heritage significance before undertaking development
- —Local councils preparing or reviewing heritage schedules for their Local Environmental Plans
- —Developers acquiring sites where heritage may be a consideration
- —Government agencies managing public buildings and infrastructure
- —Community groups seeking heritage recognition for places of local significance
The Heritage Assessment Process
Historical Research
We conduct thorough historical research using primary and secondary sources including council archives, State Records, Lands Registry, parish maps, historical photographs, and published histories. This research establishes the chronology of the site and identifies associations with significant people, events, or movements.
Physical Analysis
A detailed site inspection documents the physical characteristics of the place, including its form, materials, construction techniques, alterations, and current condition. This analysis identifies which elements of the building fabric are original and which have been modified over time.
Comparative Analysis
The property is compared with similar places in the local area and across NSW to establish its relative rarity and representativeness. This step is important for understanding the place within its broader historical and architectural context.
Assessment Against NSW Heritage Criteria
We assess the place against the seven NSW Heritage Assessment Criteria: historical significance, associative significance, aesthetic significance, social significance, technical significance, rarity, and representativeness. This structured assessment determines whether the place meets the threshold for heritage listing at local or state level.
Statement of Significance
The assessment culminates in a concise statement of significance that articulates why the place is important and what elements contribute to that significance. This statement guides future management and development decisions.
Contact our team to discuss your heritage project requirements.
Get in Touch