permission to change windows on a listed property

I have a house in Granada, about a year ago the facade of the house was listed.  I havent had this in writing but the officials came round and looked at the house and afterwards told my friend who showed them round as I was in the UK  that the facade is now listed .  The reason why it is  listed is because of the  old stonework around the doorway. The authorities have also told my neighbours who have this same work that their property is also listed in the same way.  

We want to replace the windows, with wooden ones again but this time double glazed because of the cold and because it can get very noisy in the late hours.  I dont want to take a chance and just do it as we have already had someone round from the town council with the police to have a look around when we were doing building work previously. Luckily it was before this and we had permission for the work!

Has anyone got any experience of changing anything on a listed property in Spain?  I would be really glad to receive any advice on how to go about it!

Thanks.

Think you need to talk to an Architect...there are many such in and around Granada, I can refer you to one in Moraleda which is about 30 kms west of Granada on the A92. (junc 211). Good blokes, both in their late twenties I would think and both speak reasonable English and not out to rob you blind either. Definitely you need professional guidance before starting anything. If you want to contact them let me know and I'll pm you the details.

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Yes, you need either an architect or a lawyer to review requirements for you

Best,

MAria

Ok thank you for advice. 

Not quite sure though why we need an architect?    We are only replacing the old one with more wooden ones. We dont need any planning done. I was just going to get local carpenter to do it if we got permission.

Hi Curious,

                  As with most things in Spain there is a high level of bureaucracy. You know what I mean forms, forms and forms and stamps.

I guess that is the case here and professionals are giving their advice.

Unfortunately, as is often the case, if you do not speak good Spanish you need some help. However if you do (speak Spanish) pop into your Town Hall and make enquiries. There will no doubt be forms to fill in and fees to pay but you may be able to do it alone.

I have some experience of facade repairs to Grade II listed buildings in the UK. I can assure you that was not easy either. Materials, style etc. were specified and work supervised. You see bureaucracy in the UK as well.

If you speak Spanish, or know someone who does, enquire at your Town Hall. Failing that you will need professional help.

Good Luck

Mick

Hi maylin. 

Thank you for your advice.

I do know someone who speaks very good spanish.  I will email them and ask them to accompany me to the town hall so I can make enquiries when I am over.  If that fails I will take Foxbat up on his offer of an Architect's contact number.

This holiday home has become very costly and I want to do it the cheapest way possible .  The only thing of architectual value is the stonework around front door , this is why it is listed.  So I dont see how it  will affect it having the windows changed, they are not original windows and the rest of the facade front of the house is wrecked already.  I suppose as you have already said, it won't be as  simple as that though based on my experience of owning a property in Spain so far!