Any structure older than 60 years is automatically protected by the National Heritage Resources Act. Historical properties may not be demolished or altered without obtaining approval issued by the relevant provincial heritage resource authority.
The National Heritage Resources Act define alter as any action affecting the structure, appearance or physical properties of a place or object, whether by way of structural or other works, by painting, plastering or other decoration or any other means. Failing to obtain the necessary approval is a contravention of the National Heritage Resources Act and will result in penalties as set out in the Act.
Heritage resources are graded to determine which level of government is responsible for its management.
There are three tiers with regards to historical properties:
Tier 1: Heritage overlay Zones. Usually found in historic suburbs which protects the area.
Tier 2: Is specific to individual properties and buildings older than 60 years, or of particular architectural value.
Tier 3: Applies only to buildings officially classified as national monuments.
If the property falls within one of these tiers, approval must be obtained for any building work. The higher the tier the more stringent the rules.
Proper disclosure of the nature of the property must be made to the purchaser when dealing with a historical home, especially if a purchaser has hopes to renovate or renew the home.