Do you fancy living in a church?
Are you a budding property developer? Then a church or chapel might not be the most obvious choice but can really make for stunning renovation. With church-goers unfortunately reducing in numbers many empty once proud places of worship are being left to decay.
For the Church of England alone about 20 churches and chapels a year have to close, and other denominations are left with the same choice as congregations fall.
Achieving planning consent can be hard enough and there are many other obstacles to overcome before you even get this far, so renovating a church is not for the faint hearted. Churches no longer in use have to be closed formally and church authorities are reluctant to see their former buildings converted to residential property. Applications for community buildings or even office space are likely to be considered as more valuable than residential property alone so you may be in for a long wait before a church will be considered for private property.
You must also be aware that there will be people who may still wish to visit the graves of loved ones, you cannot just fence this area off and not allow access. If you want to remove the gravestones there are certain procedures that need to be adhered to and the graves will need to be exhumed. This process can progress slowly and brings with it an immense amount of paperwork.
Churches and chapels are exempt from VAT however it is more than likely that the building is ‘listed’. Renovating a listed building in itself does carry additional restrictions and you will need to bear this in mind.
Churches or chapels bring with them a sense of drama and intrigue that can really release your creativity as you design your perfect home. Stained glass windows, elegant buttresses and beautiful high vaulted ceilings will bring real character and a truly unique living space. But always try to make sure your design is in keeping with the majesty and character of the building. Reclamation yards can be great places to obtain traditional flooring, pews and much more.
If you need some expert advice, then speak to trusted conveyancing solicitors today.
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