Code Of Practice
When Oxley Conservation work with traditional buildings, we will abide by the following code.
1 Respect existing resources
We will recognise the value to this and to future generations of what we have inherited, especially
• buildings,
• natural resources, and
• wildlife.
 |
Nest boxes installed during works to a building that housed a swift colony in an attempt to mitigate the effect of the essential repair works during the nesting season |
2 Understand the building before acting
• We will determine whether the building is formally protected.
• We will identify the special interest and value of each building and its fabric, irrespective of whether or not it is protected .
 |
The fireplace is a principal feature in this 1920s listed building |
• We will investigate the way the building was designed to perform, and how subsequent changes to the building have affected this performance.
3 Justify the need for any alterations or repairs to a building
4 Devise repair solutions that are appropriate to each individual building
• We will avoid a reliance on standard solutions.
• We will recommend solutions that are in accord with the original performance of the building.
5 Avoid conflicts of interest
• We will not rely on advice provided by those with a vested financial interest in their own recommendations.
6 Adopt a conservation-minded approach
We will be respectful to traditional buildings and their fabric. Wherever possible we will aim
• to maximize the retention of existing fabric,
 |
These repairs to a crown post were cut carefully to fit to the surviving timber, maximising retention of the fabric |
• to minimize intervention, and
• to ensure the reversibility of interventions and repairs.
 |
These steel strap and wire repairs are not "traditional", but they helped minimise intervention and they are reversible. |
7 Choose materials carefully
• We will ensure that new materials are proven to be compatible with the performance of the building.
• We will favour materials that have minimal environmental impact.
 |
Reed board and sheep's wool insulation chosen for their environmental credential and compatibility with the performance of the historic fabric |
8 Specify and promote appropriate and routine maintenance
9 Encourage good management of precious resources
We will advocate:
• reducing energy in use,
• minimising external pollution and environmental damage,
• reducing depletion of embodied energy and resources, and
• minimising internal pollution and damage to health.
10 Promote sustainable approaches
Sustainable approaches are those that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own need.