Australia Icomos Conservation Guidelines For Building Surveyors

A U S T R A L I A I C O M O S
CONSERVATION GUIDELINES
FOR
BUILDING SURVEYORS
______________________
FINAL REPORT
_____________________
PETER PHILLIPS AND DON TRUMAN
Australia ICOMOS 2002
InIormation presented in this material may be reproduced in whole or in part Ior study or training
purposes subject to the inclusion oI acknowledgement oI source and provided no commercial
usage or sale oI material occurs. Reproduction other than this requires the permission oI Australia
ICOMOS Inc.. Requests Ior permission should be addressed to the Australia ICOMOS Secretariat,
Faculty oI Arts, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood VIC 3125
Published by Australia ICOMOS Inc.
ISBN 0-9581987-0-5
Australia ICOMOS
Faculty oI Arts
Deakin University
221 Burwood Highway
Burwood VIC 3125
Australia
austicomosdeakin.edu.au
http://www.icomos.org/australia
Tel: 61 3 9251 7131
Fax: 61 3 9251 7158
CONSERVATION GUIDELINES FOR BUILDING SURVEYORS
CONTENTS
Page No.
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. HOW TO USE THESE GUIDELINES 1
3. BUILDING REGULATIONS AND THE BUILDING SURVEYOR 2
4. HERITAGE AND THE BUILDING SURVEYOR 2
4.1 What is heritage? 2
4.2 Heritage jargon 2
4.3 How do we decide what is valuable? 3
4.4 Heritage conservation in development and building controls 4
4.5 What does the building surveyor need to know? 4
5. THE BUILDING APPROVAL PROCESS 5
5.1 The BCA and heritage buildings 5
5.2 Why is the building surveyor important? 5
5.3 The assessment process Ior existing buildings 6
6. HERITAGE ISSUES IN BUILDING CONTROL 7
6.1 Size oI building 9
6.2 Class(es) oI occupancy 9
6.3 Structural system 9
6.4 Entrances, paths oI travel and exits 11
6.5 Fire and smoke resistance 14
6.6 Early Iire hazard indices 16
6.7 Areas and volumes oI Iire compartments 16
6.8 Fire Iighting equipment 17
6.9 Egress saIety equipment 20
6.10 Fire warning systems 21
6.11 Health and amenity 22
6.12 Fences 29
6.13 Subdivision 29
6.14 Driveways and pathways 30
6.15 Trees and gardens 31
6.16 Building services and plant location 31
6.17 Compatibility oI materials 32
6.18 Properties oI traditional materials 35
6.19 Colour schemes 38
6.20 Materials handling on site 39
6.21 Car parking 40
6.22 Civil engineering works 40
APPENDICES 42
A. Further Reading 42
B. Relevant Federal and State Legislation Regarding Heritage Matters 43
INDEX 49
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The preparation oI the Conservation Guidelines Ior Building Surveyors was carried out
with the assistance oI Iunds made available by the Commonwealth oI Australia under the
National Estate Grants Program.
The authors grateIully acknowledge the assistance oI the Iollowing people in the
preparation oI these guidelines:
David Logan Australia ICOMOS
Trevor Howse Building regulations consultant
Grahame Crockett Australian Heritage Commission
Alison Reed Australian Heritage Commission
Helen Truman
Jane Phillips
The authors also grateIully acknowledge the Iollowing people and organisations as sources
oI illustrations. All other illustrations were provided by the authors.
David Logan Figures 12 (drawings by John Sulman,
architect) and 15 (drawing by M Dunn,
architect) reproduced in Logan1987
Heritage Council oI NSW Figures 13 (drawing Irom draIt Technical
InIormation Sheet 4) and 18 (drawing Irom
Technical InIormation Sheet 3)
Paul Green, photographer Figure 20
Don Truman (as part oI Clive Lucas
Stapleton & Partners, Architects)
Figures 21, 35, 36, 41 and 48
Honeywell Limited Figure 24
Michael Fursland, Sutherland Shire Council Figures 30, 44 and 45
Michael Eagles, Camden Council Figures 37 and 38
Luigi Zaniol Figure 49
Fire Control Pty Ltd Figure 51
DISCLAIMER
This document is to be considered as guidelines only. Any representation, statement, opinion or advice,
expressed or implied in this document is made in good Iaith but on the basis that the authors, Australia
ICOMOS and the Australian Heritage Commission, their agents and employees are not liable (whether by
reason oI negligence, lack oI care or otherwise) to any person, company or other entity Ior any damage or
loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur in relation to that person, company or other entity taking or
not taking (as the case may be) action in respect oI any representation, statement or advice reIerred to above.
Australia ICOMOS Conservation Guidelines Ior Building Surveyors
1
CONSERVATION GUIDELINES FOR BUILDING SURVEYORS
1. INTRODUCTION
These guidelines are generally intended Ior use by practising building surveyors, although
they will be useIul Ior many people who deal with heritage buildings. The guidelines are
intended to help building surveyors and private certiIiers make good decisions about
heritage buildings and places, by highlighting commonly occurring problems and oIIering
solutions that have been achieved in similar situations. Being aware oI the heritage issues
is the key to solving the problems.
Most heritage buildings are unable to comply with current building regulations. This does
not necessarily mean that they are unsaIe or unhealthy. In most cases, heritage buildings
can be upgraded to meet the intention oI current building regulations. The challenge is to
do this without losing the qualities which give the buildings their heritage signiIicance.
The introduction oI a perIormance-based Building Code oI Australia (BCA) has made this
task a little easier.
2. HOW TO USE THESE GUIDELINES
The introductory sections deal with some basic heritage concepts which building surveyors
need to know. The basic terms used in heritage conservation are deIined. The intent is not
to conIuse the reader with heritage jargon, but to explain the terms used in conservation as
a means oI explaining the concepts. Then Iollows a brieI explanation oI the methodology
oI heritage conservation, and how this translates into heritage listings aIIecting buildings
and other places.
The guidelines themselves are laid out to correspond to the normal method oI assessing a
building Ior compliance with the BCA. They Iollow a typical building assessment process,
starting with general attributes oI the building (e.g. size, class oI occupancy) and
proceeding to particular issues oI structural saIety, access, Iire saIety, and health and
amenity. For each section, three questions are asked and answered:
N Do vou need to do anvthing? (is there really any non-compliance?)
N If so, what is the least vou can do? (to resolve any non-compliance that genuinely
exists)
N How have others done it? (what good ways have been Iound elsewhere to achieve
compliance?) Examples oI good (and occasionally bad) practice are illustrated.
The examples used are drawn mainly Irom New South Wales. However, the principles
illustrated can be applied throughout Australia.
Many issues aIIecting heritage places in which building surveyors become involved are not
necessarily directly related to the BCA, Ior example Iencing, subdivision and landscaping.
The guidelines thereIore include also some oI the more common issues oI this kind,
together with suggested procedures.
The reader can Iollow the assessment process through, or skip to a particular area oI
interest. Alternatively, the index can be used to Iind the relevant material.
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3. BUILDING REGULATIONS AND THE BUILDING SURVEYOR
The building surveyor`s job is to administer the building regulations embodied in the BCA
along with other relevant regulations, and in most cases to certiIy on behalI oI Council that
the perIormance requirements have been met. In some parts oI Australia this job is also
being done by private certiIiers.
In relation to heritage issues, building surveyors may have an expanded role when heritage
provisions are incorporated in building regulations (such as the demolition provisions oI
the NSW Local Government Act 1993). This is in addition to their ongoing role in
administering the detail oI building approvals relating to heritage buildings, and the new
role oI both building surveyors and private certiIiers in dealing with integrated
development and building applications.
4. HERITAGE AND THE BUILDING SURVEYOR
4.1 What is heritage?
Heritage in a broad sense means, simply, anything which we have inherited. Heritage as
usually understood reIers to those things Irom the past which we value today and wish to
pass on to our children. In other words, we need to make judgements today about things
which we think will be valued by those who come aIter us.
Widespread community concern Ior buildings oI the past is a relatively recent
phenomenon. Apart Irom a Iew isolated organisations such as the Society Ior the
Protection oI Ancient Buildings in Britain, the Iormation oI National Trusts and similar
bodies has mostly occurred since the Second World War. In Australia, the National Trust
was established in NSW in 1947, but it was a private organisation which could only
advocate conservation, not enIorce it. In 1975, Iollowing an inquiry into the National
Estate, the Australian Heritage Commission Act was passed which established the
Commission and a Register oI the National Estate. The Commission still had little power
to enIorce conservation oI heritage items except Ior those owned by the Commonwealth.
The Iirst place to be listed on the Register oI the National Estate was Fraser Island. This
occurred in 1977, the same year the NSW Heritage Act was passed. This established the
Heritage Council oI NSW which had power to make conservation orders over heritage
items and control what happened to them. Similar legislation had been implemented in
Victoria in 1974 and was subsequently passed in Western Australia (1990), the ACT and
Northern Territory (1991), South Australia and Queensland (1992) and Tasmania (1993).
At the same time, planning laws such as the NSW Environmental Planning and
Assessment Act (1979) and the South Australian Planning Act (1982) provided Ior
heritage controls to be incorporated into the local government planning process. A table oI
legislation controlling heritage in Australia is included as an Appendix to these guidelines.
4.2 Heritage jargon
Like all disciplines, the heritage industry has its jargon or shorthand language Ior
describing what it does. Most oI these terms are listed and deIined in acharter prepared by
Australia ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites), the Australian
branch oI a UNESCO organisation Ior heritage proIessionals. This document is popularly
known as the Burra Charter. A Iew deIinitions Irom the Charter will be helpIul:
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Adaptation means modiIying a place to suit proposed compatible uses.
Compatible use means a use which involves no change to the culturally signiIicant
fabric, changes which are substantially reversible, or changes which require a
minimal impact.
Conservation means all the processes oI looking aIter a place so as to retain its
cultural significance. It includes maintenance and may according to circumstances
include preservation, restoration, reconstruction and adaptation and will
commonly be a combination oI more than one oI these.
Cultural significance means aesthetic, historic, scientiIic or social value Ior past,
present or Iuture generations.
Fabric means all the physical material oI the place.
Maintenance means the continuous protective care oI the fabric, contents and
setting oI the place, and is to be distinguished Irom repair. Repair involves
restoration or reconstruction and it should be treated accordingly.
Place means a site, area, building or other work, group oI buildings or other works
together with associated contents and surrounds.
Preservation means maintaining the fabric oI a place in its existing state and
retarding deterioration.
Reconstruction means returning a place as nearly as possible to a known earlier
state and is distinguished by the introduction oI materials (new or old) into the
fabric. This is not to be conIused with either recreation or conjectural
reconstruction which are outside the scope oI the Charter.
Restoration means returning the EXISTING fabric oI a place to a known earlier
state by removing accretions or reassembling existing components without the
introduction oI new material.
Note that restoration in the Burra Charter has a much narrower and more precise meaning
than is generally used in everyday language.
Where the term heritage significance is used in these guidelines, it is meant to encompass
all possible kinds oI signiIicance being:
N natural signiIicance (including all things not introduced by man)
N cultural signiIicance (including all things aIIected or introduced by man), which can be
aboriginal or non-aboriginal
4.3 How do we decide what is valuable?
To reduce the inIluence oI personal opinion in deciding what is listed as heritage, a
method has been developed Ior assessing heritage places and deciding what is important
about them. The method is:
N Find out everything you can about the place
N Compare the place with other similar places
N Assess the cultural significance oI the place as a whole and the relative signiIicance oI
its components
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This method is (or should be) the basis oI every list oI heritage items, every statement oI
heritage impact (or heritage impact assessment) and every conservation plan. Standard
criteria Ior assessing heritage items have been developed to ensure that the assessments are
comparable, clear and as objective as possible.
4.4 Heritage conservation in development and building controls
In most cases, heritage issues are dealt with at the development application stage by
Council`s heritage planner or heritage adviser. However, management oI the approval
through detailed documentation and construction monitoring usually passes to the building
surveyor, and the heritage staII may not be involved. The implementation oI their advice is
thereIore in the hands oI the building surveyor.
4.5 What does the building surveyor need to know?
i) Is the building listed?
Does it appear on a statutory list (in NSW, is it listed as a heritage item in a Local
Environmental Plan (LEP), Regional Environmental Plan (REP), or listed on a State
heritage register?). There are many such lists or registers oI heritage place; and once can
reIer to the Appendix to these guidelines Ior a table oI the various Commonwealth, State
and Territory laws governing heritage. Find out iI the place is heritage listed Irom
Council`s rating inIormation, or consult the heritage planner or adviser Ior the local
Council or State heritage authority. Commonwealth property is bound by the Register oI
the National Estate which is administered by the Australian Heritage Commission. This
Register is also an authoritative (although non-binding) statement on the heritage
signiIicance oI non-Commonwealth owned property.
II not Iormally listed, does the building have an advisory listing? The most common oI
these is a National Trust listing. Other listings include the Register oI the Institution oI
Engineers and the Royal Australian Institute oI Architects Register oI 20th Century
Buildings oI SigniIicance. Again, the Council heritage planner or adviser is probably the
Iirst source oI inIormation. Many buildings which do not Iind their way on to statutory
lists may be included in heritage studies Ior a local government authority which in many
instances precede Iormal listing.
Even iI a building is not yet listed by anyone, this does not necessarily mean that it is not
worthy oI listing. The process oI identiIication is a continuous one, and at no stage can one
say that all places oI heritage signiIicance have been identiIied. Building surveyors need to
be alert to the possibility that unlisted buildings may be important, and their signiIicance is
oIten discovered only when they are being opened up Ior alteration or demolition.
ii) Does the listing include a statement of significance and schedule of elements of
significance?
In other words, has the building been proIessionally assessed by a conservation specialist
to identiIy:
N why it is important?
N what parts oI the building are essential to that importance; what parts contribute to that
importance; and what parts either make no contribution or detract Irom that
importance?
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This inIormation provides essential background to the decisions that building surveyors
have to make. In most cases, the signiIicance oI a place is explained principally by its
Iabric, and oIten the signiIicance oI the whole place relies on the sum oI its parts.
Conversely, where adaptation oI heritage items is necessary, any changes to the Iabric
should occur in the less signiIicant parts. II the inIormation on elements oI signiIicance has
not been provided, you need to ask Ior it. II it has, you may need to check that it is correct.
Council`s heritage planner or adviser can assist.
5. THE BUILDING APPROVAL PROCESS
5.1 The BCA and heritage buildings
The goals oI the BCA are worth restating here:
The goals of the BCA are to enable the achievement and maintenance of
acceptable standards of structural sufficiencv, safetv (including safetv from fire),
health and amenitv for the benefit of the communitv now and into the future.
These goals are applied so that the BCA extends no further than is necessarv in the
public interest, is cost effective, easilv understood, and is not needlesslv onerous in
its application.
The BCA is now a perIormance code. It includes objectives, Iunctional statements and
perIormance requirements as the primary regulations. It includes prescriptive requirements
only as deemed-to-satisIy provisions. In other words, compliance with the perIormance
criteria can be satisIied by compliance with the prescriptive rules, but can also be satisIied
in other ways.
Building surveyors and private certiIiers should always be mindIul oI the discretionary
powers that the authorities have to approve non-standard provisions iI they meet the
objectives oI the regulations and are reasonable in the circumstances oI each case.
5.2 Why is the building surveyor important?
The building surveyor and private certiIier have a primary role in representing Council as
the public guardian oI the welIare oI all building users. Conserving the community`s
heritage assets can be seen as part oI this responsibility.
SuccessIul building conservation needs awareness oI heritage issues, good detailing and
good building, all being considered by the building surveyor.
The building surveyor makes a major contribution particularly at two main stages:
i) Building approval
Building surveyors receive details oI structure, access, services and Iire protection as part
oI the approval submission. They have the knowledge to understand the impact oI these
elements on the Iabric oI the building, and iI armed with background heritage knowledge
can comment on the eIIect oI the proposals on the signiIicance oI the building. Building
surveyors can also suggest other solutions which achieve the perIormance requirements
with less impact.
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ii) Construction on site
The building surveyor is usually the person consulted iI site conditions are diIIerent Irom
those assumed at the time oI application, or iI client changes are proposed. This is oIten
the stage at which previously negotiated good outcomes are lost. In some cases,
unexpected signiIicant early or original Iabric can be exposed, requiring a review oI the
heritage assessment and possibly Iurther research which changes the understanding oI the
place. In such circumstances there is a great temptation Ior a builder or owner to avoid the
complications that this can cause. The building surveyor equipped with the right
knowledge can make a signiIicant contribution to the project on these occasions.
Building surveyors now Irequently have an opportunity to contribute to a project at the
design stage, either through initial applicant consultation with the local authority, or
through involvement oI private certiIiers or building consultants with the design team.
Comments Irom building surveyors at this stage can be crucial to the outcome.
5.3 The assessment process for existing buildings
A proposed assessment method Ior existing buildings, suggested in the AUBRCC
publication Guidelines for Achieving Fire Safetv When Recvcling a Building, mirrors the
assessment method Irequently adopted by building surveyors. In brieI, the method
advocates a progressive check oI the existing building and proposal, proceeding Irom
general to particular issues:
1. Size oI building (total Iloor area,
eIIective height, number oI storeys and
basements, maximum population,
storey heights)
Indicates scale of fire risk, and capacitv of
building to accommodate proposed uses and
number of occupants
2. Class(es) oI occupancy Indicates usage which affects fire risk (likelv
fire sources, combustible contents, and
capacitv of occupants to become aware of
fire and escape), structural loadings,
sanitarv facilities etc
3. Structural system (load paths,
resistance to earthquakes, load carrying
capacity)
Indicates capacitv of structure to perform
under current and future loads.
4. Number and nature oI entrances and
exits and paths oI travel
Indicates capacitv of building to provide safe
access, circulation and egress for people
with different mobilities
5. Fire and smoke resistance Tvpe of construction, fire and smoke
resistance of all building elements including
stair and corridor enclosures. Indicates
inherent capacitv of building structure and
design to perform in event of fire
6. Early Iire hazard indices Materials and finishes. Indicates risk of earlv
fire and smoke spread
7. Areas and volumes oI Iire
compartments
Indicates maximum si:e of fire to be expected
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8. Fire Iighting equipment (Iire main,
hydrants, hose reels, sprinklers)
Indicates potential for containing fire either
automaticallv or bv occupants or fire
brigade
9. Egress saIety equipment (stair
pressurisation, emergency lights, exit
signs)
Indicates capacitv of exits to remain safe for
occupants to leave the building
10. Fire warning systems (Iire and smoke
detection, emergency warning and
intercommunication)
Indicates the time within which occupants
and fire brigade can become aware of fire
11. Health and amenity (damp-prooIing,
light, ventilation, sanitary Iacilities and
heating)
Indicates potential for health or amenitv risk
6. HERITAGE ISSUES IN BUILDING CONTROL
The above method has been used as the model Ior the heritage guidelines below. Under
each assessment item listed above, common heritage issues are identiIied, together with
some suggestions Ior dealing with problems and solutions which have worked elsewhere.
Other issues outside the BCA in which building surveyors may become involved are also
dealt with in the same way.
Although Ior clarity each issue is dealt with separately in these guidelines, remember that
all buildings must be dealt with as a whole, using a package oI interdependent measures
which address all the issues together to achieve the perIormance requirements.
Remember too that although some aspects oI a building may Iall short oI the current
perIormance requirements, other aspects may considerably exceed the requirements. For
example, a stout hardwood post may have so much excess loadbearing capacity that it can
still carry the required load even aIter it has been reduced in cross-section by charring in a
Iire . This surplus perIormance in some areas can sometimes be 'traded oII against
shortcomings in other areas. Similarly, providing active means oI Iire protection such as
sprinklers can compensate or be a trade oII Ior deIiciencies in passive protection such as
unprotected timber Iloors.
In all heritage work, as the Burra Charter says, conservation is based on respect Ior the
existing Iabric. The objective oI conservation is not to make something old look new. On
the contrary, the existing place should retain its patina oI age and the evidence oI past uses
and wear. SigniIicant Iabric must thereIore be preserved wherever possible, as its
unnecessary removal breaks these tangible links with the past. The golden rule Ior work to
heritage places is 'as much as necessary, and as little as possible, or in other words 'iI it
ain`t broke don`t Iix it!
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Assessment item Heritage issues
6.1 Size of building
Do you need to do anything?
Many heritage buildings have small Iloor areas which
eIIectively limit their populations, and greater than normal
ceiling heights.
If so, what is the least you need to do?
Assess the size oI the building critically with a view to
identiIying aspects which can be used as a trade-oII Ior other
deIiciencies, such as greater than normal storey heights
which can be helpIul Ior smoke management.
How have others done it?
In PlayIair Terrace at the Rocks in Sydney, the limited
capacity oI the original domestic buildings (now used Ior
retail) meant that the existing narrow and steep stairs (which
also included winders) could be retained, although limited to
two storeys Ior public access.
6.2 Class(es) of occupancy
Heritage buildings are Irequently unable to be used Ior their
original purpose. II they are to survive they need to be
adapted to ensure economic viability, which oIten involves
upgrading to meet modern standards. You always need to
assess the nature oI the proposed occupancy and its
consequences Ior the building. In some cases, these
consequences Ior a heritage building (Ior example, major
structural alteration) are so great that the best course is to
Iind another use.
Figure 1. Small guest
houses like this are now
classiIied as Class 1b rather
than Class 3.
You need to understand in detail the nature oI the proposed
occupancy. This may coincide with the BCA classiIication.
In the past, small guest houses were classiIied as Class 3
beIore Class 1b was introduced into the BCA. Class 1b
recognises that small buildings may represent a lower risk.
You can apply the same logic to other classes.
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6.3 Structural system
N Generally Do you need to do anything?
In most cases, building surveyors will be relying on
certiIication Irom project structural engineers that buildings
meet structural requirements. You need to be aware that
many engineers are not experienced in assessing the
adequacy oI existing buildings and may thereIore be over-
cautious. II a building has been standing adequately Ior a
century or more, then unless it has deteriorated badly it will
continue to perIorm (other things being equal).
Figure 2. This crack looks
serious, but has existed Ior
many years without change
and is not aIIecting
structural stability
II a building is still apparently sound when calculations
show that it is unsound, the calculations may well be wrong.
II in doubt obtain a second opinion Irom a heritage engineer,
or one experienced in the analysis oI existing structures oI
traditional construction.
II a building is cracked, the standard approach is to monitor
the cracks over time to see whether they are stationary (in
which case oIten no action is required), cyclical (caused by
changes in ground moisture in clay soils) or progressive.
Cyclical cracking has been treated by stabilising the
moisture content oI the ground, with no actual work to the
building.
N Load paths Do you need to do anything?
Other things being equal, a building will only collapse iI it
has exhausted all possible ways oI standing up. OIten the
building is carrying its load quite adequately, although not as
the designer intended.
Analyse the structure careIully with the aid oI a suitably
experienced structural engineer. Provide bracing or
additional support to supplement the existing structure.
Figure 3. The slipped
tracery oI the rose window
at the Great Synagogue,
Sydney
The rose window at the Great Synagogue, Sydney, has
settled over the years. A reinIorced concrete bracing Irame
was provided internally as a precaution against Iurther
movement.
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N Earthquake
resistance
II a building has resisted previous earthquakes, it may well
have the capacity to resist Iuture ones. The Newcastle
earthquake resulted in the needless demolition oI many
heritage buildings through incorrect assessment. One
building was condemned on the basis oI cracking which had
occurred in a previous earthquake.
Figure 4. This building in
Newcastle, supposedly in
danger oI imminent
collapse, took a ball and
chain crew nearly all day to
demolish.
Traditional structures rely mainly on gravity and mass to
keep them standing oIten their components are not tied
together. In many cases, providing connections between
walls and Iloors, and bracing Ireestanding elements such as
parapets and chimneys, will be suIIicient Ior heritage
structures up to about Iour storeys.
Australian Standard AS3826-1998 shows a number oI
standard methods oI upgrading existing buildings, which can
be adapted to suit heritage buildings.
N Load carrying
capacity
Figure 5. Typical
warehouse Iraming oI the
19th century
Many old buildings such as warehouses were designed to
carry much greater loads than a proposed change oI use may
generate. Even where the use is the same, old methods oI
structural design oIten led to spare structural capacity. A
proper analysis may show that the structure is perIectly
adequate Ior its new use.
Figure 6. Supplementary
rooI timbers at Glenmore,
Mulgoa
Have an experienced engineer check the capacity oI the
structure. II it is doubtIul, look at the points oI inadequacy
and strengthen those Iirst. For example, although timber
joists may be unable to comply with notional stress grades,
they are not necessarily unsaIe. Old timbers will be very well
seasoned and may be stronger than they look. II the timbers
genuinely need strengthening, it is best to leave the existing
members and add supplementary members. However, iI the
structure is seriously overloaded, question whether the
proposed use is appropriate in the Iirst place.
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At Elizabeth Farm, Parramatta, and Juniper Hall,
Paddington, NSW, very old timbers (including structural
beams) had been eaten out by termites. Rather than replace
the members, the engineers elected to strengthen them using
internal steel rods and epoxy.
6.4 Entrances, paths of travel and exits
N Access
Figure 7. 19th century
buildings had steps at
entrances
Most heritage buildings are not accessible to people with
physical disabilities. It was common to introduce steps at
entrances, partly Ior architectural eIIect and partly to raise
the Iloor above the damp ground. Hence some compromise
is almost always needed. ReIer to the Bibliography Ior
useIul reIerences on this subject.
The BCA now includes signiIicantly greater requirements in
relation to access, in particular the need Ior equitable and
dignified access. This Iollows the introduction oI the
Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act and its State
counterparts. The implementation oI these rules may have a
considerable eIIect on heritage signiIicance, and great care is
thereIore needed to develop appropriate solutions.
Figure 8. The new entrance
ramp at Hyde Park Barracks
gives access to the ground
Iloor only
IdentiIy possible ways oI providing the access that the BCA
requires. Assess the impact oI each way on the signiIicant
elements oI the building and its signiIicance as a whole.
Determine a reasonable extent oI compromise which will
achieve as much equitable access as possible without undue
loss oI signiIicance.
In some cases Iull equity oI access may not be achievable,
although Iull access can usually be provided with minimal
impact on signiIicance, using mechanical devices such as
wheelchair liIts.
12
At Duntroon, ACT, steps at doors Irom a stone Ilagged
verandah were eliminated by swaling the verandah surIace
up to Iorm ramps. At the Sydney Customs House, a new
entrance ramp was introduced over the existing steps and
lobby which were leIt intact underneath. At the Sydney
GPO, a new principal entrance was introduced on the
western side oI the building.
N Number of exits Do you need to do anything?
Check that the number oI exits is at least suIIicient Ior the
expected population. Many heritage buildings have more
exits than required which can be a trade-oII Ior other
deIiciencies.
Figure 9. New stair at Hyde
Park Barracks
Can another exit be provided without undue loss oI
signiIicance? II not, can the deIiciency in the number oI
exits be compensated Ior in other ways (such as an improved
detection and alarm system or minimising numbers oI
people using the building)?
Hyde Park Barracks, Sydney is a long three storey building
with a single stair towards one end. A new stair was
introduced at the other end, and unobtrusive Iull-height
doors with hold-open devices were provided in the central
corridor to smoke isolate both stairs.
N Fire-isolated exits
or external stairs
Assess the risks to the existing exits.
Figure 10. Glass smoke
doors at the Carrington
Hotel are held open on
magnetic catches and close
automatically iI smoke is
detected
OIten smoke isolation is all that is needed iI populations are
small and receive early warning. Consider whether the
isolation can be provided by enlarging the protected
compartment. Also consider whether active Iire protection
(sprinklers etc) can achieve suIIicient isolation with less
adverse impact on signiIicance, Ior example by using Iire-
resistant glass or drenchers to glazed partitions.
Alternatively, adding another stair, possibly externally at the
rear, may have less impact on signiIicance than enclosing an
important original internal stair, Ior example in a rural hotel.
13
The Carrington Hotel at Katoomba, NSW relied on a mix oI
new Iire isolated stairs (taking out a bedroom on each Iloor)
and smoke isolation oI existing stairs, coupled with
sprinklers.
N Exit travel
distances and
configuration
Assess risks associated with the exit paths. II the degree oI
non-compliance is slight |Ior example, a travel distance oI
21m rather than 20m| consider whether any action is really
needed.
Consider whether active systems such as a better than
normal early warning system can compensate Ior physical
deIiciencies.
In the CML Building in Hunter Street, Sydney, the Fire
Access and Services Advisory Panel oI the Heritage Council
oI NSW recommended approval oI stairs with
interconnected rising and descending Ilights, because the
stair conIiguration and visual cues such as changes in Iloor
Iinish were enough to promote saIe egress.
N Dimensions of
exits and paths of
travel
Research shows that, although in theory a commonly
required 1m stair can accommodate two people side by side,
in practice people still move down in single Iile. Existing
stairs, even 0.7m wide, may be perIectly adequate Ior an
emergency. Existing winders in traditional stairs can oIten
be tolerated especially in small buildings, and particularly iI
the occupants are Iamiliar with the building.
Figure 11. Existing service
stairs in an Inter-War block
oI Ilats, Potts Point, Sydney
In most Inter-War residential Ilat buildings, the service stairs
although very narrow have usually been considered
adequately wide Ior egress.
14
6.5 Fire and smoke resistance
N Fire resisting
construction
Figure 12. Early methods oI
Iire-resistant Iloor
construction recorded by
John Sulman
Assess the Iire resistance oI the existing construction in the
light oI the building`s conIiguration and proposed use. Many
heritage buildings have walls oI more than adequate Iire
resistance. Some buildings, especially commercial buildings,
were designed with early methods oI Iire resistant
construction which still provide useIul protection.
Consider whether active systems such as sprinklers can
compensate Ior deIiciencies. Alternatively, consider whether
active protection can be provided in a way which does not
impact adversely on Iabric or signiIicance.
Figure 13. Upgrading
traditional Iloor-ceiling
construction
A method oI upgrading lath-and-plaster ceilings using
vermiculite within the Iloor cavity has been tested by the
NSW Heritage Council`s Fire Advisory Panel, which can
enable traditional construction to remain in place and still
provide a 1 hour rating.
N Smoke hazard
management
Keeping smoke out oI the egress paths Iorms the basis oI the
Iire saIety solution in most heritage buildings. Conditions in
exit paths may remain tenable Ior an acceptable time in a
heritage building, because traditional buildings oIten have
much higher ceilings than modern ones.
In older smaller buildings, smoke management may involve
as little as smoke seals on upgraded doors, coupled with a
good smoke alarm system (see below). In larger buildings,
stair pressurisation or controlled mechanical ventilation may
be appropriate, although very careIul design is needed
because oI the size oI the necessary equipment and its
potentially severe impact on signiIicant Iabric.
15
Figure 14. Existing original
sliding Iire doors have been
given new control
mechanisms to allow them
to remain as part oI the Iire
saIety system
A large 1929 department store in Sydney is about to be
equipped with a complex automated system controlling the
mechanical ventilation and door systems.
At BMA House in Sydney, the principal stair opened
directly onto the liIt lobby, and separating it would have
required an intrusive enclosure protruding into this
signiIicant space. The Iire saIety system involved Iire
separating the whole liIt lobby using doors held open on
magnetic catches and released by the smoke alarm system,
and pressurising the combined stair and lobby using ducts in
the light wells.
Figure 15. Typical Iloor
plan oI BMA House,
showing principles oI the
Iire saIety system
6.6 Early fire hazard indices
16
Old Iinishes are oIten highly signiIicant, and rarely present a
real Iire hazard. Some old Iinishes such as shellac have
actually been Iound to give some protection to timber in a
Iire.
compensate Ior deIiciencies.
Figure 16. These 1830s
cedar joinery elements
survived a Iire with
protection Irom their
original shellac covering.
6.7 Areas and volumes of fire compartments
N Compartmentation
and separation
Most heritage buildings are comparatively small. Larger
buildings such as old warehouses can usually be divided at
logical places. The main problems generally arise Irom
weaknesses in the ability oI some elements such as timber
Iloors to enclose the Iire compartments or prevent the
passage oI smoke.
compensate Ior deIiciencies. Alternatively, Ior example in
old warehouse buildings, consider the use oI Iloor toppings
oI concrete or magnesite in a reversible manner, which can
also Iacilitate new uses while allowing the original timber
Iloor construction to remain in situ and visible Irom
underneath.
Figure 17. A discreet
sprinkler head at Juniper
Hall
17
At Juniper Hall in Paddington, NSW, a sprinkler system was
introduced to allow the retention oI the original timber
Iloors, 6 panelled doors, and ceilings in a three storey
building with a caretaker`s Ilat on the top Iloor.
N Protection of
openings
Original doors, windows and hardware are vital to the
character oI most heritage buildings. However, they are
oIten the weak points in an otherwise acceptable smoke or
Iire compartment. Assess the risk iI the opening is not
protected.
Figure 18. Construction oI
the upgraded timber
panelled door
compensate Ior deIiciencies or whether tenable conditions
can be attained Ior saIe egress without aIIecting the
signiIicant Iabric. Smoke seals can oIten be Iitted to door
edges.
The NSW Heritage Council`s Fire, Access and Services
Advisory Panel has developed a method oI upgrading a
timber panelled door Irom the room side to achieve
approximately 30 minutes Iire rating. This allows corridors
in buildings such as old hotels or apartment blocks to retain
the original corridor appearance.
In the Customs House Hotel in Sydney, Council wanted
entrance doors to the main bar (which also served as Iinal
exit doors) rehung to open outwards, which would have
adversely aIIected their original external appearance. AIter
negotiation, the doors were allowed to remain opening
inward provided they were Iixed open during opening hours.
6.8 Fire fighting equipment
N Generally Fire Iighting equipment has a potentially major impact on
signiIicance; Ior example, upgrading the water supply may
involve a large tank at rooI level. Hydrants, hose reels and
sprinklers may require rooms Ior valves and booster pumps.
However, these services, iI careIully designed and installed,
can also avoid damage or removal oI signiIicant Iabric.
18
N Hydrants Do you need to do anything?
In residential buildings, the Iire brigade is oIten reluctant to
use hydrants because oI the large amount oI water damage
that can result. II the building has good external access,
consider asking the brigade to agree to a concession,
especially iI there are sprinklers installed.
Sometimes, the building already has a hydrant system
installed complete with hoses. Early Iire saIety systems can
be part oI the signiIicant Iabric oI the building.
Consider whether external hydrants are suIIicient. II not, try
to locate the main riser, outlets and associated equipment
where they will do least damage to signiIicant Iabric. For
example, locate penetrations in areas with plain ceilings
rather than where there are decorative ceilings. II there is an
existing early hydrant system, try to leave existing
equipment in place while adapting it so that the Fire Brigade
can still use it. Make use oI existing voids in a building
rather than creating new penetrations. II there is a reliable
water supply, consider iI a grade 2 supply would suIIice
instead oI grade 1.
In a block oI units at Potts Point, NSW, the hydrant riser was
brought through the void in the centre oI the Iire stair, with
branches at each level to the adjacent corridors, to avoid
unsightly pipework and penetrations in the lobbies.
N Hose reels Do you need to do anything?
Given that Iire extinguishers have become much easier to
use, and that trained staII can now be used as part oI the Iire
saIety system, consider whether hand-held extinguishers
would not be suIIicient, especially in buildings with
permanent staII such as hotels or shops.
19
Figure 19. Exposed hose
reels in the Argyle Centre,
Sydney
Select locations Ior hose reels and associated equipment
which will have minimal impact on signiIicant Iabric and
appearance. In many places, especially in Iormer warehouses
or industrial buildings, exposing the hose reels may be more
discreet than concealing them in cabinets.
At the Argyle Centre in Sydney, hose reels were leIt
exposed, blending in to the industrial character oI the
original building.
N Sprinklers Do you need to do anything?
Sprinklers are commonly accepted as providing an
alternative to passive (structural) Iire upgrading such as Iire-
rated ceilings. Although sprinklers are now regarded as
acceptable even where valuable contents are susceptible to
water damage, in some buildings installing sprinklers causes
more damage to signiIicant building Iabric than passive
protection.
Figure 20. Unobtrusive
sprinkler heads in an ornate
ceiling
Consider using a residential sprinkler system which needs
less associated equipment and water supply. Other options
include copper to reduce pipe sizes in critical areas, and side
wall or Ilush mounted sprinkler heads. Run concealed piping
within existing building cavities wherever possible, and
locate sprinkler heads to Iollow the pattern oI ornate
ceilings.
As with hydrants, consider iI a grade 2 supply will suIIice.
20
Figure 21. Sprinkler pipes
were concealed within the
Iloor space oI this
traditional building during
repairs to joists and
Iloorboards, allowing other
Iabric to remain
undisturbed.
In Sydney`s Queen Victoria Building, sprinklers were
installed underneath trachyte stairs using copper pipe and
side-throw heads. In Sydney`s Government House, sprinkler
heads have been 'concealed by locating them within the
pattern oI ornate ceilings.
6.9 Egress safety equipment
N Stair
pressurisation
In most heritage buildings, the size oI equipment required to
pressurise stairs is potentially very damaging to signiIicance.
As an alternative, consider smoke seals.
The system will need careIul design to minimise the size oI
compartment to be pressurised and thus the equipment
required to do it.
In the Iormer Mark Foys building (now the Downing
Centre), Sydney, generously proportioned Iire stairs were
pressurised using a duct through the stair void, to avoid
having to replace signiIicant metal windows. In BMA
House, the pressurisation system was installed in the light
wells (see above).
N Emergency lights Do you need to do anything?
Emergency lighting is usually one oI the easiest services to
install without undue damage to signiIicant Iabric.
Nevertheless, as with all services, the number oI lights needs
to be minimised.
Emergency lights should preIerably be integrated with
existing lighting; alternatively, use unobtrusive new Iittings.
Ensure that cabling is laid out and installed to cause minimal
damage.
21
Figure 22. Existing light
Iittings in Sydney Town
Hall also serve as
emergency lights.
In Sydney Town Hall, existing light Iittings were adapted to
Iunction as emergency lights.
N Exit signs Do you need to do anything?
Most buildings need exit signs in some locations. However,
where the paths oI travel are straightIorward and direct to
the outside, consider whether exit signs need be installed at
all.
Figure 23. Typical exit sign
in the Queen Victoria
building.
It is common to use exit signs as part oI the emergency
lighting system, resulting in a sign that is larger and brighter
than may be necessary. In residential or other buildings,
consider using (or retaining) signs painted on exit doors in
lettering appropriate to the style oI the building. In many
cases, a specially designed illuminated sign may be
warranted to avoid the unsightly visual impact.
Exit signs in the Queen Victoria Building in Sydney were
specially designed and made to minimise their visual impact.
6.10 Fire warning systems
N General Generally these services are an important and eIIective liIe
saIety provision needing little substantial intervention in the
signiIicant Iabric oI a building. In some instances however
the physical impact oI hard wired systems and the aesthetic
impact oI standard Iittings is an issue that needs to be
careIully addressed upon implementation.
N Fire and smoke
detection
Consider whether the size and use oI the building make a
detection system necessary at all. II so, it may be possible to
implement management practices which avoid the need to
install a Iull AS1670 system.
22
Assess the use and likely Iire hazard oI each space within the
building to determine the type and location oI smoke and
Iire detection devices. Reducing the extent oI hard wired
detection systems will minimise intervention in the Iabric, as
will installing wiring in existing voids (crevices, redundant
conduit, pipes or cavities in the Iloor structure )
Figure 24. Recently
accredited wireless smoke
detectors can be very
eIIective with minimal
physical intervention
Alternatives to conventional detectors include the VESDA
system, and the recently approved wireless smoke detection
systems which have been installed in multi-storey residential
apartment blocks.
N Emergency
warning and inter-
communication
system (EWIS)
Consider whether management practices (such as a Iire
warden system) together with the necessary alarms
associated with the Iire detection and protection systems are
suIIicient not to warrant the installation oI EWIS.
Like Iire and smoke detection systems, EWIS should be
reticulated in available crevices, redundant pipes, conduits
and cavities within the building structure. Discreet standard
or purpose designed concealed speaker systems will
minimise impact on aesthetic signiIicance.
6.11 Health and amenity
N Generally While Iire saIety measures are provided Ior events which
happen rarely iI at all, heritage buildings need adequate
health and amenity provisions Ior everyday use. As with Iire
saIety, many heritage buildings already incorporate
reasonable provision Ior these requirements, and any
additional measures need to be careIully designed Ior
speciIic cases.
23
N Sanitary and
cooking facilities
Many old buildings had no internal lavatories or kitchens,
and no proper bathrooms at all. Heritage buildings now
commonly require these Iacilities to be able to continue in
use. Consider whether adequate Iacilities can be provided
within the heritage building, or whether a new addition or
separate building may be preIerable. II the Iacilities already
exist and have worked satisIactorily in the past, they may
well continue to perIorm adequately and even cope with a
small increase in demand. Sometimes more diligent or
Irequent maintenance can be used to keep the existing
installation going rather than replace it.
The normal requirements throughout Australia Ior achieving
health standards in kitchens can be very damaging to the
signiIicance oI the place. For example, commercial kitchens
oIten require large ventilation ducts which can impact on
both appearance and Iabric, or impervious materials which
may cause substantial and irreversible damage to signiIicant
Iabric. Assess the signiIicance oI building Iabric in the space
proposed Ior the kitchen area, and the kind oI Iood
preparation processes proposed there. Consider the
objectives oI relevant health standards and whether the
selected space can be used without the need to do anything
which will interIere with Iabric. Critically assess the real
need Ior:
Figure 25. A modern
kitchen was installed in this
1830s house. Note that
original walls have been
careIully covered by
laminated sheet which
allows Ior easily cleaned
surIaces, but can be
reversible such that
intervention to original
Iabric is minimal
N impervious materials
N coved skirtings
N Iully washable surIaces
N removing joinery elements to prevent grease and dirt
accumulating
N Iloor wastes
N grease arrestors
N mechanical ventilation
24
Figure 26. Original joinery,
linings, architraves and
skirtings have been
preserved in adapting this
space Ior a kitchen. New
Iloor covering has been
Iitted to allow easy cleaning
yet original Iloor boards
remain intact
If so, what is the least you can do?
Rather than enIorce all prescriptive requirements oI health
codes, consider alternatives which may achieve the same
objective but with less impact on signiIicant Iabric:
Impervious walls and floors
On walls, sealing junctions oI the walls and Iloors with sills,
linings, architraves and skirtings can be an acceptable
alternative to removing all such joinery. Gloss paint on a
reasonably dense plaster or masonry wall may be acceptable
in lieu oI tiling. Over more delicate surIaces a timber Iramed
and tiled Ialse wall may be the only solution. On timber
Iloors, sheet vinyl or linoleum may be an appropriate and
less damaging substitute Ior tiles. Alternatively, iI a Iloor
waste is required an impervious membrane can be laid over
a timber Iloor, Iollowed by a weak reinIorced cement base
laid to Ialls, and Iinally tiles or sheet.
Figure 27. This services
stack, housing essential
services (under
construction), is located in a
Iormer air shaIt and light
well area which was inIilled
during the mid 20
th
century
Service pipes and penetrations
Existing pipes should continue to be used Ior as long as
possible. Any new pipes should be taken through existing
holes in the Iabric, or located in areas oI low signiIicance. II
Iloor wastes and traps are needed, shallow traps can be used
with pipes running in the direction oI joists to minimise
cutting. Alternatively, iI the space and ceiling below are oI
low signiIicance, drainage pipes may be exposed or enclosed
in a bulkhead. Water supply pipes can be surIace mounted,
or concealed behind a tiled Ialse wall.
25
Figure 28. This under-
ground grease arrestor was
installed next to the Hyde
Park Barracks caIe with
minimal intervention to
signiIicant interior Iabric or
archaeological deposits
Grease arrestors
II there is an existing grease arrestor which is technically
inadequate Ior the new use, consider alternatives to replacing
it such as limiting the number oI patrons or requiring more
Irequent maintenance. II a new grease trap is unavoidable, it
should be located in an area oI relative minor signiIicance.
Other mechanical means such as pumping can also be used
to minimise the need to interIere with signiIicant Iabric.
II an external or subterranean grease arrester is required, it
should be located away Irom areas oI potential
archaeological sensitivity so that the excavation will not
damage evidence oI Iormer use oI the place below the
ground surIace.
N Drainage services The introduction or upgrading oI sewer and stormwater
drainage in existing heritage places can potentially have a
substantial impact on signiIicance. Strict compliance with
modern regulations may require additional services to be
provided; Ior example, many authorities now require that
stormwater retention tanks be installed in new developments
which may impact on landscape Ieatures or archaeological
relics.
II the systems are working reasonably well at the moment,
there may be no need Ior any change. A typical example is a
stormwater gully in a small inner city yard which discharges
into the sewer system. II the amount oI water involved is
small there may be no justiIication to disturb the Iabric Ior
the installation oI a new stormwater drain.
II replacement oI services is unavoidable, reuse existing
penetrations, or alternatively rationalise services stacks in
coordinated positions, to minimise intervention to Iabric.
26
Where underground services lines are to be installed or
replaced, be mindIul oI archaeologically sensitive areas and
any statutory requirements (Ior example, excavation permits
under the NSW Heritage Act). Rationalise the services lines
to minimise the number oI trenches required. On sites oI
known or predicted archaeological sensitivity it may be
necessary Ior excavations to be monitored by an
archaeologist.
N Damp-proofing Ways oI protecting a building against moisture Irom outside
have varied widely throughout Australia`s history. It is
important to be aware oI the traditional methods and work
with them rather than against them. Implementing modern
day requirements strictly to old buildings can do substantial
damage to signiIicant Iabric, and using the wrong modern
treatment may make the damp problems worse. Also
remember that even aIter the cause oI the damp problem has
been correctly diagnosed and treated, the damp may persist
Ior some time aIterwards until the Iabric has dried out.
Figure 29. Damp prooI
course installation should
only be considered aIter
exploring all other possible
causes oI rising damp. This
example oI a chemically
injected dampcourse is used
to illustrate the technique
rather than the unacceptable
manner oI patch repair
Firstly, explore all possible causes oI the damp problem.
OIten it is simply excessive water, caused by Iaulty gutters,
broken downpipes or drains; drains blocked by tree roots, or
a change in overland or subsurIace Ilow caused by later
development within the vicinity. Other possibilities include
well-watered garden beds next to walls, build up oI
surrounding earth against walls; or construction oI concrete
or other impervious paths against old buildings.
The Iirst step is to eliminate the excess water. In many cases
correct management oI subsoil and surIace water will solve
the problem without any need Ior additional measures.
II additional treatment is needed, start with the simple and
cheap remedies beIore embarking on the more expensive
ones. One possible measure is additional subIloor vents to
increase subIloor ventilation, although this may have a
considerable adverse impact on both appearance and Iabric.
27
As a last resort against rising damp, installation oI a damp
prooI course may be necessary. Some methods oI installing
damp prooI courses (such as chemical injection
techniques).do less damage to buildings than others.
Applying cement render hardly ever solves rising damp
problems; in Iact it usually makes them worse. A better
solution is a weak lime based render which decays
preIerentially as it draws the salts out oI the masonry.
N Natural light Modern day technology and liIestyles have resulted in new
buildings having larger areas oI glass than old ones. Many
old buildings have less natural light than current codes
require. Increasing window or glazing sizes can have
substantial eIIects on the signiIicance oI a place. In most
instances large expanses oI uninterrupted glass are not
appropriate to buildings oI heritage signiIicance.
Figure 30. Sensitive design
in traditional materials and
details allows this porch
opening to be enclosed and
Ior more Ilexible use oI the
space internally.
Many places oI heritage signiIicance will have acceptable
levels oI natural light within them. II view rather than light
is the real issue, consider whether a verandah can be adapted
instead oI introducing larger windows.
Explore the possibility oI adjusting spatial planning oI the
building so as not to make substantial changes to Iabric or
appearance yet still achieve acceptable views. In some
instances it may be acceptable to install rooI lights within
the existing rooI plane to improve natural light. As a last
resort, iI new windows have to be inserted, they should have
traditional proportions and detailing.
N Ventilation and
thermal comfort
Ventilation, thermal design and heating methods Ior
traditional buildings have evolved over time in response to
Australia`s varied climatic conditions. The range oI
responses to those conditions varies Irom the traditional
elevated timber Iramed 'Queensland House in northern
areas, to the thermally massive masonry oI Tasmanian
buildings in the south.
28
Figure 31. Traditional
openable transom lights can
provide good cross
ventilation
You need to understand how traditional buildings have been
designed and constructed to respond to the environment in
various areas oI Australia. This will provide an insight into
whether there is a need to improve the natural ventilation or
thermal perIormance oI those buildings, and iI so how it can
occur with least impact on signiIicant Iabric.
Traditional buildings relied on natural ventilation and many
had eIIicient systems involving devices such as openable
transom lights and high wall vents. In many instances simply
repairing or reinstating the original method oI operation will
restore eIIective ventilation. Generally, air conditioning in
old buildings is neither necessary nor appropriate.
Internal bathrooms and commercial kitchens need
mechanical ventilation which oIten requires large ducts.
These can potentially do great harm to signiIicant Iabric. In
the case oI kitchens, consider whether the kind oI Iood
preparation proposed really warrants mechanical ventilation,
and iI so whether the duct can be located where it will have
minimal heritage impact.
Figure 32. Original
elements oI this Iireplace, in
particular the marble pieces
incorporated into the
reconstructed chimney
piece were Iound behind the
covered Iireplace opening
during conservation oI the
house.
Traditional Iireplaces and chimneys oIten produce better
heating than modern appliances. The move to replace
Iireplaces with modern gas or electric systems is oIten
excused by a reported lack oI replacements Ior missing
parts. However, in most instances the parts can be sourced,
and indeed will sometimes be Iound concealed on site
behind the Ilap opening (iI the Iireplace has a Iitted register
grate).
The capabilities oI Iireplaces to draw smoke can be aIIected
by modern intervention such as capping the chimney Ilue,
installing inappropriate chimney pots or simply Iailing to
clean and maintain the Ilue. Tradesmen still exist who can
rectiIy these problems to enable the chimney and Iireplace to
operate eIIectively.
29
6.12 Fences
Fences can play an important role in the historic and
aesthetic signiIicance oI heritage places, one which can
easily be overlooked in assessing proposed works to them.
Retaining original Ience alignments helps to delineate
historical boundaries, and contributes to the setting oI a
heritage building.
Wherever possible historical Ience lines should be
preserved. Fences should generally be maintained in their
existing positions, unless this has a detrimental eIIect on the
signiIicance oI a place.
Figure 33. While the base
oI this signiIicant picket
Ience needs repair, epoxy
patching and painting oI
existing Iabric can be used
to preserve most oI the
signiIicant elements without
need Ior replacement.
Only those parts oI a Ience which are rotten or damaged
need to be replaced, not the whole Ience. Keeping the sound
parts oI the Ience achieves conservation objectives and may
also be cheaper. However, it is important to repair using the
same jointing, Iixing, proIiles and materials as the original
Iences. In some cases, supplementary propping can be used
to avoid replacing major elements.
6.13 Subdivision
The subdivision pattern oI a place can tell us a lot about its
historical development and the events which have aIIected
it. Tangible, physical links between signiIicant elements oI a
place can be lost by subdividing it, aIIecting our ability to
understand and interpret the original arrangement.
Outbuildings, wells, gardens, trees, orchards, access ways,
Ience lines, archaeological relics, garbage deposits and other
elements oI the cultural and natural landscape can have
important links to the evolution oI that place.
30
Figure 34. This house and
outbuildings at the rear
Iormed part oI an original
chicken Iarm. Subsequent
subdivision and develop-
ment oI residential Ilats
placed pressure on
redevelopment oI this site.
Incentives to an adjoining
residential development
resulted in the total
conservation oI the whole
site including its remaining
lot boundaries and rear out
buildings and Iormer Iowl
houses.
Assess whether the subdivision pattern being proposed will
have an impact on signiIicant elements, and whether there
are any elements on the area to be subdivided Irom a place
which may have substantial links to the signiIicance oI the
place.
Explore alternatives Ior altering the proposed subdivision
boundaries to allow Ior those links to be preserved and
maintained. Investigate possible incentives to encourage
either adjustment oI the subdivision boundaries or avoiding
subdivision altogether. Such incentives could include
amended provisions Ior setbacks, height limits, densities,
land use, access, car parking, or Iinancial contributions. The
objective is to achieve more acceptable outcomes Ior the site
Irom a conservation point oI view while also satisIying the
applicant`s desire to develop it.
6.14 Driveways and pathways
Introduction oI new driveways or pathways can have a
substantial impact on the interpretation oI a place by
removing or concealing the historical alignments oI previous
driveways and pathways.
Figures 35 and 36.
Historical research and
selective excavation
uncovered this important
remnant oI a signiIicant
section oI paving (above)
Irom which the pathway
alignment and design was
reconstructed (below)
II the original layout oI paths and driveways survives, assess
whether there is any good reason to change it. Deteriorated
Iinishes can be patched or repaired, and undesirable Iinishes
can oIten be adapted.
Investigate the original locations oI pathways, garden beds
and driveways within a place. II these have changed, good
evidence oI them may still be available. In general, at least
the alignment oI traditional, historical driveways and
pathways should be maintained.
31
It is preIerable Ior the original surIace, edging, drainage and
planting to be preserved or reconstructed as well. II there is
deterioration oI the original (Ior example Irom tree roots or
soil subsidence) investigate the causes and rectiIy them Iirst.
Changes Irom existing or signiIicant alignments may
involve disturbance oI potential archaeological deposits or
Iormer garden planting. These should be assessed and
managed, preIerably in consultation with experienced
practitioners.
6.15 Trees and gardens
Figures 37 and 38. Whether
purpose planted or selI-
sown, this tree is obviously
causing damage to the
adjoining building (above
and below).
The traditional landscaped setting oI a place can be
Iundamental to its signiIicance. As much damage can be
done by inappropriate new plantings as by removal oI
original plants and trees.
Assess critically the arguments advanced Ior the removal oI
signiIicant landscape elements. Typically these include
damage to nearby buildings, roads or drains, or risks to
buildings or public saIety Irom Ialling trees or branches.
Seek advice Irom specialist practitioners including
experienced engineers, landscape architects, arborists or
botanists. Proper advice on the structural stability, age, or
condition oI landscape elements may help avoid wrong
decisions to remove or replace signiIicant plantings.
The need to remove trees or gardens oIten arises Irom their
eIIect on existing buildings, or their location in relation to
proposed new buildings or other elements such as
driveways.
Consult specialists with a view to determining the minimum
work necessary to control the eIIects oI trees or reduce
adverse impact to signiIicant gardens. Trimming or pruning
oI trees or roots is almost always preIerable to removal.
6.16 Building services and plant location
Arguably the most damaging impact on the signiIicant Iabric
oI any heritage place (buildings particularly) is the
introduction oI services to suit modern needs.
32
ou need to do anything?
All too oIten there is a tendency to replace all the existing
services even iI they are perIorming adequately, because
they are considered old-Iashioned. In some cases the
services to be replaced have high historic or scientiIic
(technical) signiIicance in themselves. It is always worth
considering whether existing services can be maintained in
use through appropriate management practices.
Figure 39. Sewage ejector
pots are becoming
increasingly rare because
they are replaced by many
people who consider them
antiquated. However, the
technology remains sound
and iI in good condition
these pots can usually be
retained.
aintaining the existing services in operation and prolonging
their liIe will not achieve all that is required, consider
supplementing those services with new services. To avoid
compromising the signiIicance oI a place, new services
should be introduced in the same locations as existing
redundant services, and make use oI the same penetrations.
Figure 40. Wires can be
easily threaded through
Iloor cavities and behind
purpose designed skirtings
as above.
The location oI new plant and equipment is crucial to
minimising its potential adverse impact on signiIicance.
Services need to be installed in zones oI lesser signiIicance,
both within the building and underground. Existing building
cavities should be used Ior reticulation wherever possible. It
is always worth asking Ior the services to be marked out on
site prior to any cutting or chasing so that the proposed route
can be reviewed beIore any damage is done.
Figure 41. Discreet
installation oI mechanical
plant at rooI level
In a very restricted City building with a small Iloor area, all
mechanical ventilation plant was rationalised and grouped
on the rear (and most discreet) side oI the rooI, keeping its
size and height as small as possible and minimising
intervention to signiIicant interior Iabric and spaces
6.17 Compatibility of materials
Old and new materials do not always go together. Using
modern materials and methods incorrectly with traditional
construction can cause a great deal oI damage to signiIicant
Iabric, in many cases turning a small problem into a much
larger one.
33
II partial replacement oI damaged Iabric is proposed, assess
whether leaving the original Iabric in place and repairing it
is practicable (it is almost always preIerable). Just because a
corrugated iron rooI is surIace rusted does not necessarily
mean it needs to be replaced. Rust converters and 'cold
galvanising paints combined with a responsible
maintenance routine will prolong the liIe oI the original
material. In the same way, spalling stone can sometimes be
cleaned and rubbed back rather than replaced.
Figure 42. Where
incompatible metals are in
contact, or water Ilows Irom
one to another, rapid
corrosion may occur. In this
example, a copper
condensate drain has
corroded the galvanised
steel tray and been extended
in a crude manner with
ordinary garden hose.
It is important to understand how traditional building
materials and methods work, and how they might react with
modern materials. For example, corrugated galvanised iron
or steel rooIing was originally used in conjunction with lead
Ilashings. The modern equivalent, zincalume steel, is not
compatible with lead and the use oI the two materials
together will lead to rapid corrosion. Zincalume rooIing used
with galvanised steel gutters also produces corrosion.
As a general rule, repairs to traditional materials are best
done using the same materials and techniques as were used
originally, especially where the old material is being patched
rather than replaced which is generally the preIerred method
Ior repair oI traditional Iabric. The use oI modern materials
to patch traditional Iabric is more oIten than not an
inappropriate means oI repair because oI the incompatibility
oI the materials.
N Replacement of
corrugated
iron/steel roofing
The replacement oI old corrugated rooIs with modern
zincalume or Colorbond steel is widespread. As well as the
potential problem oI incompatible metals, using the modern
material will change the traditional appearance oI the rooI.
New steel sheet rooIing is usually Iixed in single length
sheets Irom top to bottom, with hexagonal head Iixings,
whereas the original rooI will usually have two or more
shorter sheets lapped, and domed slotted screws with lead
washers. Also, instead oI the traditional soIt Ilashings at
abutments, modern rooIs tend to have pre-Iolded sheet
Ilashings.
34
Figure 43. Something as
simple as rooI Iixings will
have an impact on the
signiIicance oI a place iI not
undertaken in a proper,
traditional manner. Domed
slotted screws with lead
washers can still be sourced
iI the desire is there
The combination oI these changes is a loss oI correct visual
detail which diminishes the signiIicance oI the building. It is
still possible to repair corrugated iron with corrugated
galvanised steel products Iixed and Ilashed in the traditional
manner. One other advantage oI galvanised steel over
zincalume is that it will weather more quickly to reduce
glare.
N Cement mortar
and traditional
masonry
Up to the end oI the Iirst World War, mortars with a high
cement content were not traditionally used, and most
masonry was built in lime mortar. Consequently, patching or
repointing traditional masonry with cement-rich mortar is
inappropriate and can have long lasting, damaging eIIects on
the masonry elements oI a building.
Figures 44 and 45.
Inappropriate cement-rich
repointing and rendering to
this stone building (above
and below) has probably
been done in response to a
breakdown in the original
lime based mortar. This is a
classic example oI what not
to do. Cement rendering is
not the answer to rising
damp as it only pushes the
damage higher up the wall.
The principle oI traditional masonry was that the mortar was
weaker than the brick or stone, so that any damage caused by
evaporating moisture would occur preIerentially in the
mortar joints which could readily be repointed. However,
where the mortar has a high cement content and is denser
than the weaker masonry elements, the moisture (and
soluble salts within) cannot escape through the mortar and
thereIore cause breakdown in the masonry elements, leading
to spalling oI the brick or stone with the mortar remaining
unaIIected.
The other problem with cement-rich mortar is its structural
strength. Lime mortar allows the masonry to move slightly
to adjust to structural movements, Ior example Irom
Ioundation movement in clay soils. As a result, iI any
cracking occurs in the wall it will be slight and will occur in
the joints only. However, walls repaired in cement mortar
will be unable to adjust in this way, and cracks when they
occur will oIten be more severe and through the bricks as
well as the joints.
35
N Masonry walls
and enamel (oil
based) paint
Figure 46. The bubbling oI
paint shown above is a
'balloon oI moisture Irom
the wet masonry surIace
behind which cannot escape
the oil based painted
surIace
Stone and Iace brick which were intended to have their
original surIaces exposed should not be painted. Some brick
walls were however originally painted. II repainting oI
previously painted masonry surIaces is required, acrylic
paints should be used in preIerence to oil based enamel
paint.
The reason is that most traditional walls were built in solid
masonry without cavities, and rely on evaporation oI
moisture Irom the outside to keep the inside surIace dry. Oil
based paints, or modern liquid membranes, prevent the wall
Irom 'breathing and may Iorce the moisture to evaporate
Irom the inside Iace, making the damp problem worse.
N Ferrous products
in traditional
masonry
Figure 47. Poorly prepared
and maintained Ierrous
Iixing in this instance has
caused breakdown in the
masonry reveal. Note the
inappropriate patching in
hard cement based mortar
Where wrought iron or steel products such as iron palisade
Iences or security bars on windows are used, they are prone
to corrosion unless properly protected or continually
maintained. The use oI lead sleeving with iron pickets or
bars when bedded into masonry assists in sealing the
masonry/iron junction and preventing corrosion oI the iron.
Where precautions such as this are not taken, the iron or
steel corrodes in the damp masonry causing eventual
deterioration oI the stonework or brickwork.
6.18 Properties of traditional materials
Many traditional materials and methods oI construction have
inherent properties which are not widely understood. As a
result, signiIicant elements are needlessly removed Irom old
buildings, or discounted when buildings are being upgraded.
36
Understand the capability oI the existing building and its
elements. In many cases, the original Iabric will be adequate
Ior its purpose, without any Iurther upgrading Ior health or
saIety. Some examples are discussed below.
N Traditional
hardwood
framing
Figure 48. The hardwood
Iraming conserved in this
warehouse was previously
exposed to Iire, with
minimal charring oI the
structural members.
In a number oI traditional buildings (particularly
warehouses), hardwood Iraming was used which has high
inherent Iire resisting capabilities. Indeed, aIter recent Iires
in turn-oI-the-century Sydney warehouses, hardwood
structural elements were Iound to have perIormed better than
iron or steel. Hardwood structures may thereIore need no
additional Iire protection.
N Shellac Shellac-based products Ior clear Iinishes on traditional
joinery elements have been Iound to provide some inherent
Iire protection to the timber.
N Terracotta lumber
Figure 49. Terracotta
lumber used as part oI a
wall.
Terracotta lumber was a lightweight building block used in
the late 19th and early 20th century Ior 'IireprooI
construction, in lightweight walls and also as protection to
beams and Iloors.
37
N Wired glass
Figure 50. Wired glass Iire
resistant window as shown
in the original pane below
The use oI wired glass in traditional Iire windows was a
Iormerly accepted method oI Iire resistance. Steel Iramed Iire
windows were made with Iusible links so that they would
close automatically when the link melted, and were used to
protect openings in external walls in early to mid 20
th
century
buildings.
N Tin clad fire doors
Figure 51. Tin clad Iire
doors as shown below can
achieve acceptable Iire
resistance
Tin clad Iire doors which were prevalent Irom the early part
oI the 20
th
century have been Iound in practice to have good
Iire resistance capabilities, although not tested to modern
standards.
N
38
N Sand-lime
pugging
Figure 52. Sand and lime
pugging, in this instance
between joists, was a
common Iorm oI sound and
thermal insulation
In numerous traditional buildings, sand and lime mixed
pugging (usually between joists in timber Iramed buildings)
was used as a sound and thermal insulator. The mass Iormed
by lath and plaster walls on timber Iraming can also have
surprising sound attenuating capabilities.
Although traditional construction elements have usually not
been tested to current standards, they can make a
contribution to the perIormance oI the whole building. The
properties oI such elements should not be discounted in the
assessment oI the total package
6.19 Colour schemes
Inappropriate use oI colours on traditional buildings can
have substantial eIIects on the aesthetic signiIicance oI a
place.
It is always important to maintain the paintwork oI a place in
order to ensure the continuing protective care oI elements
subject to deterioration. It is also important to know what the
early colour schemes were, which can be Iound by careIully
scraping away the paint on nominated building elements to
reveal the layers underneath. Both the choice oI colours, and
the placement oI those colours on speciIic elements oI a
building, aIIect the success oI the colour scheme.
39
Figures 53 and 54. These
beIore and aIter photo-
graphs (above and below)
show the result oI a well
considered colour scheme
based on scrapes Irom the
building. Note the
placement oI colours which
is critical Ior a successIul
scheme.
Provided that the colours selected are Irom a range available
at the appropriate period in time Ior the building, and are
used in the traditional ways and locations, it is not essential
to reproduce the original colour scheme. It is important that
the correct type oI paint is used, and that only surIaces
intended Ior painting are painted.
It may be beneIicial Ior the colour scheme to be determined
by a conservation practitioner.
6.20 Materials handling on site
The handling oI materials on site requires great care to avoid
damage to the heritage item. Small constrained sites and
those in heavily built up areas present special diIIiculties.
Damage can be done when signiIicant Iabric or elements
(including landscape elements) need to be removed or
substantially altered in order to move or store materials on
site. For example, substantial holes may have to be made in
Iloors and walls oI a building in order to move materials
Irom one Iloor to another.
Obviously, in any building project materials must be moved
on to and around the site. Explore all ways to use existing
spaces and services (such as liIts, stairways, disused shaIts
or voids), and existing openings (or new openings to be
made in the Iinished building) to allow the movement oI
materials within the site without aIIecting other elements oI
signiIicance.
Plan the work thoroughly in consultation with the builder to
minimise or preIerably eliminate openings required only Ior
construction. Investigate appropriate materials handling
machinery.
40
6.21 Car parking
Car parking can have substantial detrimental eIIects on the
signiIicance oI a place, although it can also help a heritage
property remain viable.
Figure 55. Large expanses
oI hard surIace car parking
area can be soItened by
choosing an appropriate
surIace material pea gravel
in the above example The
treatment oI surIaces near
traditional buildings needs
careIul landscape design.
Consider whether there needs to be any car parking on site at
all, especially iI it will have a strong adverse impact on the
signiIicance oI a place. Council oIten has discretion to vary
its normal parking requirements when dealing with heritage
items.
If so what is the least you can do?
Using the assessment oI signiIicance, locate areas on the site
oI higher and lower signiIicance. Factors to consider include
aesthetic qualities oI the place and its setting, research
potential oI areas such as original garden beds, pathways or
driveways, or historical boundaries or Ience lines.
Having regard to those elements oI signiIicance, select the
most appropriate place Ior car parking and determine how it
will be provided. For example, vast areas oI hard surIace car
parking in the Iront garden oI a signiIicant building is
probably not the most appropriate way to provide parking
Iacilities. For small numbers oI vehicles, existing Iacilities
(Iormer garages, stables, coach houses or storage areas in the
past) may be able to be adapted Ior car parking.
6.22 Civil engineering works
The local authority`s own civil works, such as new
Iootpaths, road widening, street Iurniture, and signage, have
great potential Ior both positive and negative impacts on the
cultural signiIicance oI a place. The signiIicant qualities oI
traditional streetscapes or townscapes or even individual
places can be substantially compromised by inappropriate
civil works.
41
Figure 56. Excavation Ior
Iootpath works (above) can
uncover archaeologically
sensitive relics and
signiIicant services to
adjoining buildings, and
needs careIul pre-planning.
Figure 57. Well considered,
modern design such as the
new bus shelter above can
sit well in an otherwise
traditional townscape.
Consider whether a comprehensive upgrading or
replacement program needs to be undertaken, or whether the
existing inIrastructure is reasonably intact and requires only
patching and repairing. Heritage towns oIten retain much oI
their original Iabric and need only a careIully directed eIIort
to remove intrusive items, make repairs and coordinate
acceptable colour schemes.
Most civil engineering works involve excavation.
Investigate whether there are any archaeologically sensitive
areas or deposits likely to be exposed or damaged during the
works. Proper archaeological assessment beIore works begin
(possibly with an archaeological management plan in place)
can avert destruction oI signiIicant relics during the course
oI the works.
Civil engineering works need to be designed and constructed
with care Ior their potential impact upon signiIicant cultural
and natural landscapes, the setting oI signiIicant places, and
traditional subdivision patterns. Materials should be selected
with due regard Ior their setting and historical context, and
may involve traditional materials including brick, stone or
granite (trachyte) kerb and guttering; concrete, bitumen or
masonry Ilagged paving elements; or garden edging
elements.
The design and placement oI street Iurniture including sign
posts, garbage bins, street lighting, seating, bus shelters,
drinking Iountains and bollards should have due regard to
the signiIicance oI the place in which they are to be
installed.
42
APPENDIX A
Further Reading
Apperly, Richard, Irving, Robert and Reynolds, Peter. A Pictorial Guide to IdentiIying
Australian Architecture. Angus & Robertson 1989.
Australian Heritage Commission. The Heritage oI Australia: The Illustrated Register oI the
National Estate. Macmillan 1981.
Australian UniIorm Building Regulations Coordination Council. Guidelines Ior Achieving
Fire SaIety When Recycling a Building 1992.
Evans, Ian. Caring Ior Old Houses. Flannel Flower Press 1988.
Evans, Ian, Lucas, Clive and Stapleton, Ian. Colour Schemes Ior Old Australian Houses.
Flannel Flower Press 1984.
Evans, Ian, Lucas, Clive and Stapleton, Ian. More Colour Schemes Ior Old Australian
Houses. Flannel Flower Press 1992.
Evans, Ian. Restoring Old Houses. Macmillan Sun 2nd edition 1986.
Freeman, Peter and Martin, Eric. Building Conservation in Australia. Royal Australian
Institute oI Architects 1985.
Heritage Council oI NSW and Royal Australian Institute oI Architects (NSW Chapter).
InIill. NSW Department oI Planning 1988.
Logan, David. Fire SaIety Provisions in Heritage Buildings. Graduate Project Report Ior
degree oI M Built Env (Building Conservation). University oI NSW Graduate School oI
the Built Environment March 1987.
Marquis-Kyle, Peter and Walker, Meredith. The Illustrated Burra Charter. Australia
ICOMOS Inc 1992.
Kerr, James Semple. The Conservation Plan. National Trust oI Australia (NSW) 4th
edition 1996.
Nangle, James. Australian Building Practice. Sydney Technical College 1911.
NSW Department oI Planning. Getting the Details Right. Flannel Flower Press 1989.
NSW Department oI Urban AIIairs and Planning. Fire and Heritage. 1995.
NSW Heritage OIIice. NSW Heritage Manual 1995.
NSW Heritage OIIice. Maintaining Heritage Assets: A Guide to Good Practice 1997.
Stapleton, Ian. How to Restore the Old Aussie House. Flannel Flower Press 2nd edition
1991.
Many oI the above books contain bibliographies giving Iurther reIerences. In addition, the
Heritage Council or its equivalent and National Trust oI Australia all publish material on
heritage and conservation.
43
APPENDIX B
Relevant Federal and State Legislation Regarding Heritage Matters
State Act Summary of Provisions
Common-
wealth
Australian
Heritage
Commission Act
1975
Established Australian Heritage Commission and
Register oI the National Estate. Control limited to
Commonwealth-owned properties.
Aboriginal and
Torres Strait
Islander Heritage
Protection Act
1984
Protects Aboriginal cultural heritage in all States
and Territories.
S21A(1) provides Ior emergency declarations and
temporary or permanent declarations to protect
cultural heritage.
Minister keeps Register oI Declarations.
Aboriginal cultural heritage agreements possible.
Queensland
Qld Heritage Act
1992
Heritage Council determines iI a place satisIies on
or more criteria in Act (S20(4)).
Listed in Register with statement oI heritage
signiIicance.
Development application made to Heritage
Council or its delegate, Local Council
Objections to listing made to panel oI assessors
who advise Heritage Council.
Appeal to Planning Environment Court
a) against listing on grounds 'not oI cultural
signiIicance or does not satisIy criterion
b) within 30 days iI development application
reIused by Heritage Council
Non-development order Ior up to 10 years iI owner
convicted oI oIIence.
Minister may make emergency preservation orders
Heritage Agreements available.
Local Government
( Planning and
Environment) Act
1990
Conservation plans may be made Ior local areas.
Cultural Record
(Landscapes Qld
and Qld Estate)
Act 1987
Governor may declare a designated area.
Minister keeps Register oI Queensland Estate
Minister`s authority needed Ior interIerence or
entry.
Local Government
(Aboriginal Lands)
Act 1978
Regulates entry to Aboriginal Lands.
44
Australian
Capital
Territory
Land (Planning
and Environment)
Act 1991
Part III Heritage
Heritage Council assesses according to criteria in
Schedule 2.
Listed in Heritage Places Register.
Applications Ior approvals Ior development to
Minister.
Heritage Council comments on applications.
On Councils advice, Minister may reIuse to grant
application.
Objections go to Land and Planning Appeals
Board.
Decisions oI Appeals Board may be reIerred on
question oI law only to Supreme Court.
Minister may apply to Supreme Court Ior
injunction to stop controlled activities.
Div 2 oI Act requires Aboriginal heritage places to
be speciIied as such in Heritage Places Register.
NotiIication oI places oI signiIicance to Aboriginal
people.
Heritage Objects
Act 1991
Similar provisions as above but Ior objects rather
than places or land.
New South
Wales
Heritage Act 1977 Minister makes interim heritage orders on advice
oI Heritage Council.
Establishment oI State Heritage Register oI items
oI State signiIicance.
Application Ior development must be made to
Heritage Council.
S170 requires a list oI State Government-owned or
controlled heritage items to be prepared and
maintained.
S136 Minister or Chairman oI Heritage Council
may make emergency orders to control demolition
without advice oI Heritage Council.
Environmental and
Planning and
Assessment Act
1979
Local Councils assess places in area.
Lists in Local Environment Plans (LEPs) and
Regional Environment Plans (REPs).
Development proposals reIerred to speciIications
in LEPs and REPs.
II a place is also on State Heritage Register
development proposals go to Heritage Council..
Historic Houses
Act 1980
Provides Ior Historic Houses Trust and
management oI particular historic houses and
museums.
45
National Parks and
WildliIe Act 1974
Minister declares place, relic Ior purposes oI Act
(particularly relevant to Aboriginal heritage).
Director oI National Parks and WildliIe
responsible Ior care, preservation and restoration
exhibition oI relics.
Director must produce plans oI management
Conservation Agreements possible.
Victoria
Heritage Act 1995
Planning and
Environment Act
1987
Local Councils include heritage places in planning
schemes iI not on register and regulate accordingly
Appeals to Heritage Council, Minister has Iinal
discretion.
Victorian
Conservation Trust
Act 1972
Western
Australia
Heritage oI
Western Australia
1990
Heritage Council advises Minister on places
meeting criteria set out in Act (S47).
Minister lists places on Register oI Heritage
Places.
Development applications reIerred to Heritage
Council Ior its advice.
Conservation Orders available whether place on
Register or not.
Appeal to Town and Planning Appeal Tribunal
S62 provides Ior restoration orders iI demolition
without approval.
46
Local Government
Act 1960,
Town Planning
and Development
Act 1928,
Metropolitan
Region Town
Planning Scheme
Act 1959,
Strata Titles Act
1985
All provide Ior development applications Ior
registered places to be reIerred to the Heritage
Council.
Aboriginal
Heritage Act 1972
Aboriginal sites must be reIerred to Trustee or
Police OIIicer.
Trustee recommends to Minister iI site oI
outstanding signiIicance.
Trustee may recommend to Minister Ior
declaration as protected area.
Land use with Minister`s consent.
Act administered by Aboriginal Cultural Material
Committee.
Conservation and
Land
Management Act
1984
Administered by Land and Forests Commission
and National Park and National Conservation
Authority.
Sets up Department oI Conservation and Land
Management.
Environment
Protection Act
1986
South
Australia
South Australia
Heritage Act 1992
State Heritage Authority assesses heritage places
according to criteria set out in Act.
Listed on Register, subject to removal by Minister;
interim listing possible.
Authority may make emergency orders prohibiting
actions destroying or reducing heritage values oI a
heritage place.
Act provides Ior restoration orders and non-
development orders Ior up to ten years.
Schedule 2 provides Ior Aboriginal Heritage
Agreements.
South Australian
Development Act
1993
National Trust oI
South Australia
Act 1955
47
Aboriginal
Heritage
Protection Act
1994
Private owners report discovery oI place/item to
Minister.
Minister may direct preservation, or prohibit or
restrict use.
S3 traditionally secret inIormation may not be
divulged.
Administered by Aboriginal Heritage Committee.
South Australia
Planning Act 1982
No development oI heritage item or place without
consent oI planning Authority.
Aboriginal sites must be reIerred to Minister
responsible Ior Aboriginal Heritage Act.
Northern
Territory
Heritage
Conservation Act
1991
Heritage Advisory Council advises Minister on
places meeting criteria prepared in accordance with
Act Listed on Register.
Register must note iI place is Aboriginal sacred
site.
Council includes one nominee oI Aboriginal Areas
Protection Authority.
Development consent oI Minister or delegate.
Appeal on question oI law to Local Court.
Council may obtain interim conservation orders
Irom Minister or Territory Council.
Council may prepare conservation management
plan .
Heritage Agreements may be entered into (S37).
Aboriginal Sacred
Sites Act 1989
Custodian oI sacred sites may apply to Aboriginal
Areas.
Protection Authority.
Listed in Register oI Sacred Sites deemed to be
registered once application made.
National Parks and
WildliIe
Conservation Act
1974 (Cth)
Commonwealth legislation which applies to Uluru-
Kata Tjuta and to Kakadu National Park.
Plans oI management Ior sites/areas oI signiIicance
to Aboriginals.
Conservation
Commission Act
Environment
Assessment Act
Tasmania
Local Government
(Building and
Miscellaneous
Provisions) Act
1993 Part 8
National Trust recommends preservation orders to
Local Council.
Listed by Recorder oI Tiles under Land Titles Act
1980 or Registration oI Deeds Act 1935.
48
Port Arthur
Historic Site
Management Act
1986,
Theatre Royal
Management Act
1986,
Tasmanian
Development Act
1983,
National Trust oI
Australia
(Tasmania) Act
1975
SpeciIic management provisions.
Aboriginals Relics
Act 1975
Applies to relics on land where they are situated.
Director oI National Parks and WildliIe
recommends to Minister Ior declaration as
protected site.
Director manages and maintains.
Does not apply to any object aIter 1876.
Aboriginal Relics Advisory Council advises
Minister and Director.
The above appendix is based on research contained in draIt document as part oI stage 1
guidelines Ior building surveyors undertaken Ior Australia ICOMOS and the Australian
Heritage Commission.
49
INDEX
Access 11 Building Assessment and Heritage
Amenity, and Health 22 (continued)
Appendices 42 Fences 29
Further Reading 42 Fire and Smoke Detection 21
Relevant Federal and State Fire Fighting Equipment 17
Heritage Legislation 43 Fire Isolated Exits 12
Approval Process 3 Fire Resistance 14
Areas oI Fire Compartments 16 Fire Resisting Construction 14
Assessment process Fire Warning Systems 21
Ior building regulation 6 Health and Amenity 22
Ior heritage signiIicance 3 Hose Reels 18
within these guidelines 7 Hydrants 18
Australian Heritage Commission 2, 43 Load Carrying Capacity 10
Load Paths 9
Bibliography 42 Materials Handling 39
Building Approval Process 5 Natural Light 27
Building Assessment & Heritage Number oI Exits 12
Access 11 Pathways 30
Areas and Volumes oI Plant Location 31
Fire Compartments 16 Properties oI Traditional
Car Parking 40 Materials 35
Civil Engineering 40 Fire doors (Tin Clad) 37
Class(es) oI Occupancy 8 Pugging 38
Colour Schemes 38 Shellac 16, 36
Compartmentation and Terracotta Lumber 36
Separation 16 Wired Glass 37
Compatibility oI Materials 32 Protection oI Openings 17
Cooking Facilities 23 Sanitary Facilities 23
Damp ProoIing 26 Services Reticulation 32
Dimensions oI Exits and Size oI Building 8
Paths oI Travel 13 Smoke Hazard Management 14
Driveways 30 Smoke Resistance 14
Early Fire Hazard Indices 16 Sprinklers 19
Earthquake Resistance 10 Stair Pressurisation 20
Egress SaIety Equipment 20 Structural System 9
Emergency Lights 20 Subdivision 29
Emergency Warning and Thermal ComIort 27
Intercommunication Trees and Gardens 31
System(EWIS) 22 Building Control and Heritage
Entrances, Paths oI Travel Issues 7
and Exits 11 Building Regulations
Exit Signs 21 and the Building Surveyor 2
Exit Travel Distances and Building Code oI Australia 5
ConIiguration 13 Building Surveyors
External Stairs 12 building approval 5
50
Building Surveyors (continued) Heritage Legislation (continued)
construction on site 6 New South Wales 44
Burra Charter 2 Northern Territory 47
Queensland 43
Car Parking 40 South Australia 46
Cement Based Mortars 34 Tasmania 47
Civil Engineering Works 40 Victoria 45
Class(es) oI Occupancy 8 Western Australia 45
Colour Schemes 38
Compatibility oI Materials 32 Impervious Walls and Floors 24
Conservation 3 Indices (Early Fire Hazard) 16
Corrugated Iron/Steel RooIing 33
Joinery 24
Disability Discrimination Act 11
Drainage Services 25 Kitchens 23
Driveways 30
Legislation, Heritage 43
Early Fire Hazard Indices 16
Early Warning Systems 21 Materials Handling 39
Egress SaIety Equipment 20 Mechanical Ventilation 28
Entrances 11
Exits 12 National Trust oI Australia 2, 4
Natural Light 27
Fences 29 Natural Ventilation 28
Ferrous Products: use oI 35
Fire, Access and Services Advisory Painting Masonry SurIaces 35
Panel (Heritage Council oI NSW) 13,17 Paths oI Travel (Entrances and
Fire and Smoke Resistance 14 Exits) 11
Fire Fighting Equipment 17 Pathways 30
Fireplaces and Chimneys 28 Plant Location 31
Fire Warning Systems 21 Private CertiIiers 2
Floors 16,24 Pugging 38
Gardens 31 Register oI the National Estate 2, 4
Grease Arrestors 25
Sanitary Services 23
Health, and Amenity 22 Services 31
Heritage 2 Service Pipes and Penetrations 24
Jargon 2 Shellac 16, 36
Listings 4 Size oI Buildings 8
Methodology 3 Smoke (and Fire) Resistance 14
in Building Control 7 Statements oI SigniIicance 4
Heritage Council oI NSW 2,44 Steel (Iire resistant) Windows 37
Heritage Issues in Building Control 7 Structural Systems 9
Heritage Legislation 43 Subdivision 29
ACT 44 Terracotta Lumber 36
Commonwealth 43 Timber Iraming (Hardwood) 10, 36
51
Tin clad Fire Doors 37 Ventilation Ducts 28
Traditional Materials, properties 35 Volumes oI Fire Compartments 16
Trees and Gardens 31
Waste Pipes 24
Using these guidelines 1 Wired glass 37

Australia Icomos Conservation Guidelines For Building Surveyors

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