Heritage Survey
Free Pre-Works Heritage Assessment
Every historic building should be understood before conservation work begins.
Lewis Heritage & Lime Mortar offers a free pre-works heritage assessment for suitable historic and period properties where you are considering appointing us to carry out the subsequent conservation work.
The assessment allows us to inspect the accessible brickwork, stonework and existing mortar, identify visible areas of deterioration, discuss previous repairs and consider the appropriate conservation approach before preparing a quotation.
Rather than pricing work purely on the amount of visible pointing, we look at the condition of the masonry, the compatibility of existing materials and the extent of intervention genuinely required. This helps ensure any proposed work is appropriate for the building and avoids unnecessary removal of sound historic fabric.
The free assessment forms part of our quotation and project-planning process and is intended for property owners considering Lewis Heritage & Lime Mortar for the physical conservation works.
Need independent specialist advice, a detailed diagnosis or a repair specification for another contractor?
Our separate Heritage Masonry Consultancy service provides paid independent assessments, written findings, lime mortar compatibility advice, conservation repair specifications and workmanship reviews.
What the Heritage Survey Includes
Our free pre-works heritage survey is designed to establish the condition and requirements of the proposed conservation work before we prepare a quotation.
During the visit, we will typically consider:
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The visible condition of the existing brickwork or stonework
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The condition and extent of existing mortar joints
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Evidence of previous cement or incompatible repairs
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Areas of visible masonry deterioration, including spalling, erosion or damaged arrises
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The general compatibility requirements of the proposed lime mortar
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Joint depth, profile and existing pointing characteristics
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Areas where existing historic mortar may be suitable for retention
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Access requirements and practical considerations for carrying out the work
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Vulnerable details such as chimneys, copings, window junctions and exposed elevations where relevant
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The most appropriate conservation approach for the work we are proposing to undertake
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Whether the project is better approached as a single phase or through planned stages
Following the survey, we can define an appropriate scope of conservation work and prepare a quotation based on the actual condition of the building rather than simply pricing the visible area.
What the Free Survey Does Not Include
The free heritage survey forms part of our pre-works and quotation process for suitable projects where Lewis Heritage & Lime Mortar is being considered for the subsequent conservation work.
It does not include a detailed written condition report, independent defect diagnosis, conservation repair specification for third-party contractors, pre-purchase assessment or ongoing review of another contractor's workmanship.
Where this level of independent specialist advice is required, our separate Heritage Masonry Consultancy service provides a more detailed assessment and reporting process.
The free survey establishes the work we may undertake. The consultancy service independently establishes what the building needs.
Why the Survey Matters
Historic masonry cannot be approached like modern brickwork. The survey ensures:
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the building is repaired safely
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the correct lime methodology is selected
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hidden defects are identified early
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moisture behaviour is respected
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conservation standards are followed
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the project is planned properly
It protects both the building and the long‑term success of the repointing.
Day‑Works Model (Post‑Survey)
All conservation repointing is carried out on a day‑works basis, not fixed price. This ensures the work follows correct lime‑mortar methodology, protects the historic fabric, and avoids the pressure of fixed‑price deadlines.
Day‑Works Rate: £750 per day This covers:
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Lead Mason (Sean)
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Skilled Heritage Labourer (Steve)
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Conservation‑grade tools and equipment
Materials charged at trade - Materials are charged separately at trade cost, with full transparency on quantities and pricing.
Payment is made fortnightly, keeping the project transparent, predictable, and aligned with conservation best practice.
Do You Need a Heritage Survey?
If your building is:
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pre‑1910
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built with lime mortar
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showing moisture‑related defects
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suffering from cement damage
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constructed with soft brick or stone
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located in a conservation area
…then the Heritage Survey is the correct first step.
It is the gateway to booking conservation work and ensures the building is treated with the care it requires.
Reserve a Heritage Survey
If your building requires heritage‑grade repointing, you can reserve a Heritage Survey for the upcoming season. My diary fills early each year due to the specialist nature of lime‑only conservation work.
Book Your Heritage Survey
A professional on‑site assessment with conservation‑grade recommendations for your building.