City of Casey Heritage Handbook

The City of Casey respects its heritage and is committed to the conservation and enhancement of it's heritage places. This is a practical resource for owners of historic buildings. It provides easy-to-follow guidance on how to: (1) Plan for maintenance and works to your heritage property (2) Understand what makes your property heritage significant (3) Maintain your heritage property (4) Make changes to your heritage property - Practical guidelines for owners of historic properties

HERITAGE HANDBOOK PRACTICAL GUIDELINES FOR OWNERS OF HISTORIC BUILDINGS

High Street Berwick c 1920s Source: Casey Cardinia Libraries

7 - 14 SEPTEMBER

Referencing Historical sources and reference material used in the preparation of this report are acknowledged and referenced as endnotes or footnotes and/or in figure captions. Reasonable effort has been made to identify and acknowledge material from the relevant copyright owners.

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION

5.0 MAKING CHANGES TO

YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

How to use this handbook

General principles

What is heritage?

Improving the environmental sustainability of your property

What is conservation?

Significant trees

2.0 PLANNING WORKS

Subdividing your property 39 External alterations to heritage properties 40 Recladding a roof 41 Replacing a fence 42 Internal alterations 43 Commercial properties 43

TO HERITAGE PROPERTIES

Step 1: Seek advice

Step 2: Understand significance

Step 3: Understand heritage and other controls

Step 4: Prepare a schedule of works

3.0 UNDERSTANDING HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE

6.0 SUPPORT AND INFORMATION

Heritage Advisory Service

Understanding Casey’s history

City of Casey Heritage Restoration Fund

Heritage properties in Casey

6.0 RESOURCES

4.0 MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

7.0 MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Roofs and chimneys

Exterior walls

Verandahs

Gutters and downpipes

Windows and doors

Fences

Trees and gardens

Foundations, footings and stumping

Dampness in walls

Pests

Asbestos

Interiors

Statement of Acknowledgement

Diversity Statement

The City of Casey proudly acknowledges the traditional owners, Casey’s Aboriginal communities and their rich culture and pays respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge Aboriginal people as Australia’s first peoples and as the traditional owners and custodians of the land on which we work and live.

The City of Casey is home to a remarkable diversity of cultures, languages, faiths, identities, landscapes, and stories. From our first Australians to our most recent arrivals and every wave between, the City of Casey welcomes and represents all community members and their respective ambitions to live healthy, rewarding, and happy lives. These intersecting and overlapping community stories form Casey’s collective identity and contribute to its evolving, rich history. We recognise this diversity as our strength and we aim to share, nurture, and celebrate it.

1 © City of Casey

1.0

INTRODUCTION

This handbook is for the owners of properties that are included in the Schedule to the Heritage Overlay of the City of Casey Planning Scheme. It does not include advice about places of Aboriginal cultural heritage.

This handbook has been produced as easy-to-follow guidance on how to:

Over 180 places in Casey are controlled under heritage legislation (Casey’s Heritage Overlay). Of these, three are precincts and three are also included in the State heritage register. Casey’s heritage places encompass a wide range of familiar and historic landmarks. Each place reveals and safeguards the story of our past and its conservation enriches our present and future. Despite development pressures faced by one of the fastest growing municipalities within Victoria, the City of Casey respects its heritage and is committed to the conservation and enhancement of its heritage places as an investment in Casey’s character and appeal.

– plan for maintenance and building works to your heritage property (Section 2.0); – understand what feature and attributes of your property are heritage significant for heritage reasons (Section 3.0); – maintain your heritage property (Section 4.0); and – make changes, such as an extension or renovation (Section 5.0) This handbook should be understood as an introductory resource only and does not replace advice from specialists. As indicated below, key points of reference should be understood as the applicable legislation and best practice frameworks, including the Burra Charter.

FRAMEWORK FOR INTERPRETING THIS HANDBOOK

Planning and Environment Act 1987 (VIC)

Heritage Handbook: Practical Guidelines for Owners of Historic Buildings

The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance 2013 (Burra Charter) (Burra Charter)

LEGISLATION GUIDING FRAMEWORKS

SUPPORTING INFORMAITON

LEGISLATION

Heritage Act 2017 (VIC)

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

LYSTERFIELD SOUTH

ENDEAVOUR HILLS

NARRE WARREN NORTH

DOVETON

HARKAWAY

EUMEMMERRING

NARRE WARREN

HALLAM

BERWICK

HAMPTON PARK

LYNBROOK

BEACONSFIELD

NARRE WARREN SOUTH

HEAT MAP INDICATING LOCATION AND NUMBER OF PLACES PROTECTED BY THE HERITAGE OVERLAY OF THE CASEY PLANNING SCHEME

LYNDHURST

CRANBOURNE NORTH

CLYDE NORTH

CRANBOURNE WEST

0 15

CRANBOURNE EAST

30 45 60

CRANBOURNE

JUNCTION VILLAGE

BOTANIC RIDGE

CRANBOURNE SOUTH

CLYDE

Tip for owners The City of Casey provides a free advisory service on matters including conservation and maintenance of heritage places. Advice can also be sought from consultants specialising in heritage conservation.

DEVON MEADOWS

CANNONS CREEK

BLIND BIGHT

PEARCEDALE

TOORADIN

Contact the City of Casey’s Heritage Planner for further information.

WARNEET

INTRODUCTION

WHAT IS HERITAGE?

We use the word ‘heritage’ to describe places of value that we want to maintain for future generations.

A place might have value because it:

– tells a story about an historical event, a person or a way of life; and/or – is a good example of an architectural style; and/or – is important to a particular community group

Together, the values of a place make up its ‘cultural significance’.

Casey’s rich history is expressed through a diverse range of buildings, streetscapes, landscapes, parks and gardens. Collectively, these heritage properties contribute to our identity, and assist us in navigating a path between where we have come from as a community, and where we are going in creating a sense of place and belonging. Casey also has an important Aboriginal history and heritage. However, this handbook does not include advice about the protection and management of Aboriginal cultural heritage. Aboriginal cultural heritage is managed under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and associated Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2018 . Learn more There are recognised ‘heritage criteria’ for determining whether a place is included in the Heritage Overlay: Applying the Heritage Overlay – Planning Practice Note 1 planning.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0011/11522/PPN1-Applying-the-Heritage- Overlay.pdf

Learn more To find out more about Aboriginal cultural heritage see:

– Aboriginal Victoria aboriginalvictoria.vic.gov.au/ aboriginal-culture-and-heritage – Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation bunuronglc.org – Australian Heritage Commission, Ask First: a guide to respecting Indigenous heritage places and values wipo.int/export/sites/www/tk/en/databases/ creative_heritage/docs/ask_first.pdf

Harkaway Public Hall, 1909 Source: Michael Drew, State Library of Victoria

4 CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

WHAT IS CONSERVATION?

Conservation means all the processes of looking after a place to retain its cultural significance.

Conservation can include:

– maintenance, including checking buildings for faults or pests, cleaning and gardening; – repairs, including replacing parts of a property that have decayed over time; and – upgrades or changes to a place that are respectful of heritage values and significant attributes.

Learn more The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance, 2013 (Burra Charter) established a best practice approach to understanding and conserving cultural significance: Australia ICOMOS, The Burra Charter: The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance , 2013 australia.icomos.org/wp-content/uploads/The- Burra-Charter-2013-Adopted-31.10.2013.pdf

Panorama of Berwick (between 1930 and 1954) Source: Rose Stereograph Co, State Library of Victoria

INTRODUCTION

2.0

PLANNING WORKS TO HERITAGE PROPERTIES

6 CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

STEP 1: SEEK ADVICE

STEP 2: UNDERSTAND SIGNIFICANCE

Changes to heritage properties need careful thought and may require a heritage permit or a planning permit. Seeking specialist advice early will help to avoid misunderstandings and costly mistakes. Some modern building techniques and materials can result in unintentional harm to a heritage place.

Understanding why your property is significant for heritage reasons will help you to plan works that protect its valued features and attributes (see also Section 3.0).

Learn more Your heritage property is listed in the Victorian Heritage Database. Search for your property at vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au to find useful information, including its date of construction, a statement of significance and a physical description. Conservation Management Plans In some cases, particularly for larger and more complex buildings, a Conservation Management Plan (CMP) is a useful document for explaining why a property is significant, and how that significance can be conserved into the future. It will establish guidelines for change to heritage places, such as proposals for repair, subdivision, additions and alterations. Speak to the City of Casey’s Heritage Planner or a heritage consultant about whether a CMP is appropriate for your property.

Advice can be provided by:

– the City of Casey’s Heritage Planner; and/or – an independent heritage consultant; and/or – a specialist tradesperson skilled in working with heritage buildings, gardens or materials

Tip for owners To assist in finding a suitable heritage consultant, visit ‘Heritage Victoria, Find a heritage consultant’, available at: heritage.vic.gov.au/protecting-our-heritage/ find-a-heritage-consultant

Tip for owners The Casey Heritage Restoration Fund may

provide financial assistance in the preparation of a Conservation Management Plan which provides for a Schedule of Works. Visit the Casey Heritage Restoration Fund website for further details at: casey.vic.gov.au/casey-heritage-restoration-fund

PLANNING WORKS TO HERITAGE PROPERTIES

STEP 3: UNDERSTAND HERITAGE AND OTHER CONTROLS

Victorian Heritage Register If your property is included in the Victorian Heritage Register, it is protected under the Heritage Act 2017 (Victoria), and you will need a permit or a permit exemption from Heritage Victoria (rather than the City of Casey) to make changes. Casey Planning Scheme If your property is included in the Heritage Overlay, it is protected under the Casey Planning Scheme, which is established under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Victoria). You may need a planning permit for works to your heritage property. You can check if additional heritage controls (tree, internal, paint, fence or outbuilding controls) apply to your property by checking the Schedule to Clause 43.01 (Heritage Overlay) in the Casey Planning Scheme (Available at planning-schemes. delwp.vic.gov.au/schemes/casey ) Table 1 gives some examples of when a planning permit is or is not needed for works to a heritage property. There may be other planning controls which affect your property and require additional planning permit approval, such as the requirements of the Zone, Design Development Overlay, Environment Significance Overlay, Native Vegetation, etc. This is general advice only – consult with the City of Casey’s Statutory Planning team to confirm if you need a planning permit. Understand other requirements There are a range of permits that apply to building works, including Building, Asset Protection and Hoarding Permits. There may also be other legislation that you must comply with, such as rules around pool and spa safety. If your property is a public, commercial or Class 1b, Class 2 or Class 3 residential building (which includes boarding houses, guest houses, hostels, residential care units and apartment buildings), then the Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010 may apply.

Demolition Under the Building Act 1993 , demolition will require report and consent by the City of Casey if: – the proposed demolition (including any other demolition within the last 3 years) amounts to more than half the volume of the building, or – the demolition affects part of the street-facing façade, including walls, roof or chimney that faces and is at least partly visible from the street A demolition permit will not be granted if the works require a planning permit or approval by Heritage Victoria, and this has not been obtained, or the demolition is inconsistent with an issued permit. In 2021, the Planning and Environment Act 1987 was amended to allow a planning scheme to provide for the regulation or prohibition of development where a heritage building has been unlawfully demolished or fallen into disrepair. At the time of writing, this amendment is new and the full implications for owners are not yet clear. You may wish to consult City of Casey to understand your obligations

Tip for owners Contact the City of Casey’s Building Services team to find out whether you need a permit for works.

Learn more Victorian Heritage Register heritage.vic.gov.au

City of Casey, Building Services casey.vic.gov.au/building-services

Victorian Building Authority, Practice Note 14: Access to Buildings for people with a disability, 2018, vba.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0004/99364/PN-14-Access-to-buildings- for-people-with-a-Disability.pdf Victorian Building Authority, Demolition, Version2.0, June 2021, vba.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0007/136528/Building-Practice-Note-DE-01- Demolition-of-buildings-Final-Approval.pdf

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

STEP 4: PREPARE A WORKS SCHEDULE

TABLE 1 PLANNING PERMITS

It is a good idea to plan and budget for conservation works. If your building is in good condition, this might be a simple guide for general maintenance (see Section 8.0). If you are planning more substantial changes, you may need help from a heritage consultant, architect or builder to prepare a schedule of conservation works. This will usually identify the significant elements of a property that need to be repaired or restored. Tip for owners The Casey Heritage Restoration Fund may provide financial assistance in the preparation of a Schedule of Works. Visit the Casey Heritage Restoration Fund website for further details at

PLANNING PERMIT NEEDED TO:

Demolish or relocate buildings

Subdivide or consolidate land

Construct or extend buildings

Change the external features of buildings (such as window frames, front doors, external walls)

Erect signage or advertising

Works including roadworks such as a driveway

Swimming pool if it is visible from the street

Construct a fence if it is visible from the street or a public park

https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/casey-heritage- restoration-fund

Remove or lop trees (if tree controls apply)*

Replace part of the building with new materials (such as re-roofing with a new material or replacing hardwood timber) Change the appearance of a building through painting an unpainted surface, rendering, sandblasting

PLANNING PERMIT NOT NEEDED TO:

Add water tanks, solar panels or air-conditioning units if they are not visible from the street or a public park

Repaint (unless external paint controls apply)*

Change internal features (unless internal controls apply)*

Clean or tidy buildings or garden areas, or control pests or weeds

Repairs that match or maintain existing details, specifications and materials

PLANNING WORKS TO HERITAGE PROPERTIES

3.0

UNDERSTANDING HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

Heritage properties are recognised to have a special value, which can be aesthetic, architectural or historical. Heritage properties in Casey are expressive of Casey’s history.

UNDERSTANDING CASEY’S HISTORY

This section provides a brief overview of this history, and identifies typical (or common) heritage properties in the municipality.

Learn more Sources of information about the history of Casey include the following: – Chris Johnston et al, City of Casey Thematic Environmental History, 2004, Context casey.vic.gov.au/historical-publications – Local History, Casey Cardinia Libraries cclc.vic.gov.au/browse/local-history/ – City of Casey, Aboriginal Sites in Casey, https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/aboriginal-sites- casey

UNDERSTANDING HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE

A dairy farm established by prominent doctor Ernst Gottlob Wanke who purchased land in Harkaway in 1853 Source: E J Frazer, State Library of Victoria

Aboriginal sites in Casey take many forms, including scar trees. Source: David Westlake

An early house in Harkaway Source: E J Frazer, State Library of Victoria

Pastoral era (1830s to 1860s)

Aboriginal cultural heritage (Millennia)

The first squatters arrived in Casey in the 1830s. Activities included grazing and some farming, near the German settlement at Harkaway. The first townships, roads and councils were also established in this period.

The Bunurong/Boonwurrung people have cared for, lived on and moved through this land for thousands of years. Their knowledge of the land is reflected in place names and in early routes and tracks used by non-Indigenous people since the 1830s.

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

The main street of the growing town of Berwick in 1907 – the hilltop heritage property ‘Kilkieran’ is visible in the distance, Source: Casey Cardinia Libraries

Aerial photograph, 1968, showing the growth of new residential subdivisions after World War II Source: Landata Victoria, Historic Aerial Photography

Properties such as Eyrecourt demonstrate the growing prosperity of the municipality in the 1880s Source: Ruth Hollick, State Library of Victoria

After World War II (post 1945)

Selection and agricultural era (1860s to early twentieth century)

After World War II, major manufacturing centres were established just outside of Casey at Dandenong and Hallam. As jobs increased, nearby residential suburbs including Doveton, Endeavour Hills, Hallam and Fountain Gate, also expanded, based on new town planning principles of estate layout and design. Continued residential subdivision in Casey was encouraged by State government growth policies, especially in the north of the municipality.

A series of Land Acts enabled ‘selection’ of land in Casey. This led to a decline in grazing and the development of diverse agricultural activities, including dairying, cheese-making, vegetable growing, horse and cattle breeding and orchards. These activities shaped a landscape pattern of clusters of farm buildings with windrows of Monterey Pine and Cypress and hedgerows along fence lines emphasising a traditional grid pattern of rural subdivision. Casey’s heritage properties include surviving farm complexes (ranging from early cottages to substantial homesteads) outbuildings, and remnants of hedges, windrows and orchards. Berwick and Cranbourne became important municipal and retail centres. As these centres prospered, grand residential, civic and commercial buildings were built to serve the growing townships.

UNDERSTANDING HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE

HERITAGE PROPERTIES IN CASEY

Generally, features and fabric that are original (or early) are more likely to be significant than later additions. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and care should be taken when planning change to any area or feature of a heritage building.

The following identifies key eras and features of heritage properties in Casey that typically contribute to significance. There are comparatively few commercial heritage properties in Casey. As such, the following focuses on residential buildings. Mid-Victorian (c 1850 to 1870s) Exterior walls: Usually timber weatherboard; some brick or ‘mock ashlar’ Windows: Rectangular, timber-framed double hung windows (occasionally with sidelights) Roofs: Hipped, M-hip or gabled roofs usually clad in galvanised iron (occasionally slate) Chimneys: Brick chimneys, occasionally with decorative brickwork, corbels or render Verandahs: Straight or concave verandahs with turned timber posts and cast-iron lacework or timber friezes Form: Symmetrical, simple layout Doors: Four panelled timber doors often with a fanlight above Flooring: Hardwood timber flooring or floor tiles Gardens: May have contained fruit trees and vegetables with limited ornamental plants, simple picket fences

Typical Victorian weatherboard cottage Source: State Library of Victoria

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

A late Victorian villa Source: Donald McDonald, State Library of Victoria

Federation/Edwardian (c 1895 to 1914) Form: Often asymmetrical and deliberately complex Exterior walls: Timber weatherboard or ashlar, often with roughcast stucco, or tuck-pointed red brick. Half-timbering below gables Roofs: Roof forms are a key feature. Often clad in terracotta Marseille tiles or corrugated iron, with ridge decorations. Deep eaves and exposed rafters Chimneys: Red brick with render, sometimes with plain terracotta pots Windows: Double hung timber framed sash, or side hung double casement. May feature sunshades to north or west. Doors: Three-panelled doors, sometimes with a glazed arched panel at the top. Fences: Often timber pickets

Late-Victorian (c 1880s to 1901) Form: More elaborate than earlier buildings. May be symmetrical or asymmetrical, usually with horizontal proportions Exterior walls: Timber weatherboard; mock ashlar or brick. Decorative features such as ornate bargeboards, friezes, stucco with mouldings or decorative brickwork Roofs: Hipped or M-hip roofs, clad in galvanised iron (occasionally slate). Decorative features such as finials on gables or brackets under eaves Verandahs: May be straight, bullnose or concave. Often feature turned timber posts (occasionally cast or wrought iron). Usually have timber floors, but occasionally decorative tiles on a concrete base. Decorative features may include iron lacework or timber valances Chimneys: May be corniced, rendered or feature patterned brickwork Windows: Double hung timber framed sash windows (sometimes with a segmental or round arched head). Some triple windows and ornamental details Doors: Four panelled timber doors with some use of red and blue glass Gardens: More elaborate gardens, sometimes with specimen trees and geometric layouts. Fences include timber pickets or palisade fences

Edwardian houses often feature complex roof forms Source: State Library of Victoria

UNDERSTANDING HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE

HERITAGE PROPERTIES IN CASEY

Brick inter-war house

Post-war triple-fronted brick veneer house

Inter-war (c 1920 to 1940) Exterior walls: Timber weatherboard or red-face brick, with shingles or half-timbered gables Roofs: Often gabled, clad in terracotta or cement tiles, with exposed rafters and deep eaves Windows: Double hung or casement often with rectangular panes. Leaded windows feature simple geometric patterns Chimneys: Simple chimneys, sometimes with soldier brick course Ornamentation: Generally restrained, with some revivalist styles (Spanish mission and Georgian Revival) Form: Often simple plan with central hallway

Post-war (1945 to 1965) Form: Usually simple with an emphasis on geometric form. May be double or triple fronted Exterior walls: Usually unadorned, may be brick or brick veneer, weatherboard or concrete blockwork Roofs: Hipped or flat roofs Chimneys: Simple, or no chimneys Windows: Large areas of glazing, with increasing use of mass-produced window frames Tip for owners Contact the City of Casey’s Heritage Planner for help to identify the significant features of your heritage property. Learn more The Heritage Council of Victoria has published a guide to Victorian housing styles: What house is that? heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/wp-content/ uploads/2014/08/What-House-is-That.pdf

16 CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

Cranbourne, circa 1910 Source: John Harvey Henry, State Library of Victoria

UNDERSTANDING HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE 17

4.0

MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

Maintenance and repair work should: – Retain the cultural heritage significance of a property; – Rely on evidence, including historic photographs or drawings, original fabric and analysis of comparable buildings; and – Retain/repair significant elements and original materials (including the features or attributes listed on pages 14 to 16).

Where repair is not possible, engage contractors with expertise in heritage buildings to replace significant elements ‘like for like’, using materials and techniques that match the original. Refer to Section 5.0 for information on larger scale replacements and changes.

Refer to page 47 for a sample Maintenance Checklist.

Learn more Heritage Victoria, Documenting maintenance and repair works , 2001, available at https://www.heritage.vic.gov.au/__data/ assets/pdf_file/0023/505256/Documenting- maintenance-and-repairs.pdf Donald Ellsmore, Achieving high quality building conservation outcomes: A basic guide for local government and heritage building owners , Heritage Council of Victoria, July 2009, available at heritage.vic.gov.au

MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

ROOFS & CHIMNEYS

Roofs keep storm water away from the sides of buildings, and protect building interiors. They also make important contributions to the appearance of a building, and reflect the era of construction.

Common problems with roofs include corrosion of metal roofs (especially where sheets overlap or are damaged), failure of fastenings, decay of underfired terracotta tiles and damage to flashing, capping or roof gutters.

Maintenance principles DO Keep roofs clear of rubbish, leaves, twigs and debris. Check roofs for: – Metal: • loose or raised sheets • loose or raised screws • rust around screws or where the sheets overlap – Slate or terracotta: • slipped, cracked or broken tiles • damaged or missing flashing or capping • damaged or rusting roof plumbing – Check eaves for signs of paint failure or decay, which may indicate problems with the roof – Limit repairs to what is necessary, including: • patch repairing small holes in metal sheets or guttering (for example, with a soldered iron patch) or repairing rusted joints with a short ‘slip sheet’ • replacing short lengths of metal sheets or individual tiles to match existing profile and appearance, and to maintain watertightness • maintaining a painted surface on corrugated sheet metal roofing to prolong its life, especially where appropriate primers are used • re-rolling buckled roofing iron • repairing or replacing damaged flashing with original materials (such as lead or galvanised iron) • When recladding, use the same materials and details as the original roof (see page 41)

Tip for owners Seek advice from the City of Casey’s Heritage Planner and/or a heritage specialist before making changes to a roof.

When checking a slate roof, look out for slipped slates and damage to flashing and capping.

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

Learn more Technical Note: Conserving Roofs, Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage, 2014, Available at qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0024/67119/technical-note-roofing.pdf

Tiles can be replaced to match the profile and appearance of the originals.

Things to avoid DO NOT – Remove or change chimneys, including painting unpainted surfaces – Walk on metal or slate roofs (where possible), as this might damage or dent the roof – Combine different metals as they may react with each other, causing rust – Use abrasive cleaning methods, such as sandblasting – Replace a galvanised iron roof with Zincalume or Colorbond. While superficially like galvanised iron, they have different physical properties and change the appearance of the roof

Check roof plumbing for a build up of dirt and vegetation.

MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

EXTERIOR WALLS

Exterior walls make an important contribution to the appearance of your property. Problems with walls might be caused by decay of materials (including timber, brick or stone), water damage or structural problems.

Maintenance principles DO

– Repair mortar or rendered surfaces to match the original. Many heritage buildings use a weak cement-lime-sand ratio and this should be carefully matched in any repairs. This is important to maintain both appearance and structural integrity – Match the ‘pointing’ of bricks or blocks. Pointing is the finish of the mortar joints between bricks or blocks and will often require a specialist tradesperson

– Check for problems with gutters and downpipes (see page 26) and rising/falling damp (see page 30), where there is staining, moss, peeling or bubbling paint or damage to timber or masonry – Keep timber walls and elements dry and coated with paint – Refix or patch repair timber elements (such as weatherboards, corner stops or mouldings) that are loose or decaying. Match the size and shape of timber elements and recycle weatherboards/ timber if available – Check for sagging weatherboards as it may indicate a problem with footings or stumps (see page 29) – Check for and treat signs of pests such as termites or borer (see page 31) – Clean masonry walls using low risk methods, such as low-pressure water spray and hand scrubbing, or application of organic solvents – Look for signs of salt damage such as white or brown deposits or crumbling of the face of brick or stone (see page 30) – Understand and treat the cause of problems (such as dampness, inappropriate cleaning methods or structural problems) before undertaking repairs or painting

Peeling or bubbling paint can indicate water damage.

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

Salt damage can cause the face or surface of bricks to crumble.

Learn more David Young, Timber Repairs,

Things to avoid DO NOT – Paint previously unpainted surfaces – Use bright or modern colour schemes that detract from the character of the heritage place – Become exposed to lead based paints. Be aware that pre-1970s paint is likely to contain lead which is harmful to health. Seek professional guidance in stripping methods that minimise dust and fumes – Use sandblasting and other abrasive methods of cleaning and stripping – Use hard cement to repair lime mortar or render. Hard cement will not solve underlying problems (and could make them worse) and will harm the appearance of a masonry wall Tip for owners Some heritage places have specific ‘External Paint Controls’ which require a planning permit to change the colour of externally painted walls. Seek advice from City of Casey’s Heritage Planner to check whether this site-specific paint control applies to your property.

Heritage Victoria, 2008, available at heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library

Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage, Technical Note: Minor Repairs – Timber, ND, available at qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0022/67054/tn-minor-repairs-timber.pdf David Young and Heritage Council of Victoria, Lime Mortars for the repair of Masonry, 2020, available at heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library David Young and Heritage Council of Victoria, Repointing with Lime Mortars, 2020, available at heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library

Heritage Council of Victoria, Cleaning Masonry, 2001, available at heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library

MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

VERANDAHS

Verandahs are a major visible element of many heritage properties. Historically, the design and materials of verandahs changed over time. Repairs and maintenance should maintain the structure of the verandah and preserve important decorative elements.

Maintenance principles DO

Preventative maintenance – Keep verandah elements dry by ensuring that roofs, gutters and downpipes are maintained in good functional order (see page 26) – Maintain protective coatings (paint, varnish, waxes or oils) on timber and metal elements – Protect the end grain of wood as it is particularly vulnerable to decay – Check verandahs for loose, damaged or decaying elements. Address the causes of damage before undertaking repair or replacement, considering damp (see page 30), pests (see page 31) or problems with stumps or footings (see page 29) – Protect decorative ironwork or joinery from knocks (for example, during construction)

Decorative ironwork and joinery are important elements of verandahs that should be protected.

Structural elements – Limit repairs to damaged sections.

For example, patch repair damaged timbers or reinforce structural elements where this will not affect the appearance of the verandah – Replace only damaged posts, rafters or beams. Match the original material, size, shape and finishes

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

PLEASE SUPPLY IMAGE

Damaged verandah flooring should be replaced to match original size, profile and qualities. (Source: State Library of Victoria)

Maintenance principles DO

Things to avoid DO NOT

– Completely replace verandah elements (including roofing, posts, decorative elements or flooring) where a repair or localised replacement is possible – Replace hardwood timber with composite timber, softwood or hardwoods that do not match the visible qualities of existing timber – Add decorative details that were not an original feature of your property – Replace a ventilated verandah with a solid concrete slab. This can cause rising damp and damage the walls of your building

Decorative elements – Reinstate decorative elements based on evidence (such as early photographs, plans or drawings or remnants of original material). Remnant cast ironwork may have maker’s marks or pattern numbers which might assist in identification – Use recycled materials or new elements produced using traditional techniques to match originals (such as recast ironwork) Flooring – Replace damaged floorboards or tiles only where necessary with elements that match existing in terms of size, colour, shape, spacing and material – Replace using the original timber or a timber that is as close as possible to original

Learn more David Young, Timber Repairs,

Heritage Victoria, 2008, available at heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library

Tips for owners Use a contractor who is familiar with heritage buildings and techniques of traditional carpentry, cast iron work or tiling.

MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

GUTTERS & DOWNPIPES

Gutters and downpipes were often used decoratively and varied in style over time. These elements, as well as rainwater heads, work to keep your property watertight. If gutters and downpipes become blocked or corroded, they can stop functioning.

Maintenance principles DO – Clear gutters of leaves and debris to prevent corrosion and blockages – Check the ‘fall’ or slope of gutters to ensure that water is directed towards downpipes. If gutters have slipped, they may need to be supported – Check for damage to gutters, such as rust, cracks or holes – Prolong the life of gutters by patching, treating rusting areas or painting internal surfaces – Replace damaged or missing parts to match the existing material, size, shape and fixing method – Replace gutters and downpipes with the original materials and profiles, based on evidence (such as early photographs, drawings or nearby houses of a similar style) – Locate new downpipes in areas that are less visible and do not cover up or damage important features of your property

Tip for owners Fix problems with your guttering before repainting. Fixing the source of water damage will ensure a long life for your new coat of paint.

Things to avoid DO NOT

– Combine metals such as copper and steel, or iron and Colourbond/Zincalume as the combination will cause corrosion – Introduce new gutter profiles – Lean ladders onto gutters as this can cause damage

Replace damaged gutters to match the original profile or shape.

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

WINDOWS & DOORS

FENCES

Windows and doors make an important contribution to the style and appearance of heritage properties. They should function to provide access, security and ventilation.

Fences form the main interface between a heritage property and surrounding streets.

Maintenance principles DO

Where your property retains a fence that is in keeping with the style of your property, this fence should be maintained and repaired.

– Check for loose or damaged timber around windows and doors and for failing paint or stains that might indicate water damage. Minor decay can often be repaired, or decayed elements can be replaced like-for-like – Repair lock mechanisms and other hardware or install new items next to older ones – Check sash cords on sash windows for damage or decay

Maintenance principles DO – Retain and maintain original fences keeping painted surfaces coated, oiling gates and checking for signs of cracks or decay – Repair fences using original materials and techniques, including timber, metal wire, cast iron and masonry. Where your property has an older fence that is in keeping with the style of your property, this fence should be maintained and repaired Things to avoid DO NOT Construct a fence that is inappropriate to the heritage era of the property Learn more Particular issues arise in the repair of palisade fences (fences with a brick or stone base and metal posts). See Heritage Council of Victoria, Metalwork, 2001, available at heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library

Things to avoid DO NOT

Replace windows or doors with new styles or materials that are not appropriate to the construction era of your property

Learn more David Young, Timber Repairs, Heritage Victoria, 2008, available at heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library

MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

TREES & GARDENS

Maintenance and repair of a garden should be based on an understanding of the underlying garden or landscape design, and the role of organic and hard landscape elements. Gardens require more frequent maintenance than buildings, including watering, mulching, pruning, weeding, fertilising and treating disease.

Maintenance principles DO – Maintain or repair the garden based on evidence of the original garden design. Sources might include early drawings, plans or photographs, as well as older trees, paths or drives within the garden – Maintain the pattern of planting within the garden, for example, hedges, avenues, garden beds, lawns or specimen trees. Replant like for like with original species or species that are similar in form and character – Restore earlier patterns or views through pruning or weeding – Maintain the arrangement, dimensions and materials of earlier garden beds, paths and drives. For example, renew an original gravel drive rather than replacing it with new tiles or asphalt – Engage an arborist to prune larger trees

Tip for owners Some heritage places have specific heritage tree controls, which require a planning permit to lop or remove a tree. Seek advice from City of Casey’s Heritage Planner to check whether this site-specific control applies to your property. A planning permit is required to lop significant trees (see page 38). Learn more Heritage Council of Victoria, Heritage Gardens, 2001, available at heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library City of Casey, Significant Tree Strategy and Register, 2014 Available at casey.vic.gov.au/ policies- strategies/casey-significant-tree-strategy- incorporating-significant-tree-register

Things to avoid DO NOT

– Build up garden beds or install sprinkler systems close to heritage buildings as these could cause problems with damp (see page 30) – Remove or lop large established trees without consulting an arborist

Larger trees should be checked and pruned by a qualified arborist.

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

FOUNDATIONS, FOOTINGS & STUMPING

Foundations are the base of a building, including the underlying soil. Footings are the building structures that sit on this soil and distribute the weight. Footings can be built from stone, brick, concrete or timber. The footings of timber houses commonly include timber stumps.

There are areas of coastal acid sulphate soils within the City of Casey. Acid sulphate soils are harmful when they are disturbed, including by excavation, drainage or subsidence caused by development. They can cause significant structural damage to your property, as well as harming the environment. Subdivision and development in areas with acid sulphate soils is restricted under the Casey Planning Scheme. Seek advice from the City of Casey’s Site Assessment and Environmental Remediation Team. Learn more Agriculture Victoria, Victorian Resources Online, Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils available at http://vro.agriculture.vic.gov.au/dpi/vro/vrosite. nsf/pages/soil_acid_sulfate_soils Maintenance principles DO – Check under the floor for signs of water or damp, wood rot or pests (see pages 30 and 31) – Remove any rubbish to improve ventilation under the floor – Notice signs of bowing in external walls, frames that are not square or cracks beside chimneys. These may be signs that the footings or foundations are sinking or that stumps have decayed – Engage an experienced contractor to undertake repair work, which can include replacing individual stumps, wholesale restumping or underpinning of masonry walls

Things to avoid DO NOT

Do not attempt structural repairs without the required training – use an experienced contractor to address the cause of problems and undertake repair work

Tip for owners Prior to purchasing a heritage property, obtain a building and pest inspection. These reports can provide the starting point for planning maintenance and avoiding pest or structural problems.

The footings of timber houses commonly include timber stumps.

MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

DAMPNESS IN WALLS

Water can enter a wall from above (falling damp) or from the ground (rising damp). Dampness can cause staining, smells and mould and can damage paint and plaster. When dampness is combined with salt, it can cause brick, stone and mortar to crumble.

Modern buildings are constructed with a ‘damp proof course’ – a waterproof barrier that sits above the ground and below floor timbers. Older buildings may not have a damp proof course, or that course may have been ‘bridged’ through changes to the building or landscaping. Learn more David Young, Salt Attack and Rising Damp: A guide to salt damp in historic and older buildings, 2008, Heritage Council of Victoria, heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library Maintenance principles DO – Address the source of moisture and remove salts before repainting or replastering – Fix blocked or leaking gutters, failed flashing or roof joints, leaking hot-water or air-conditioning units, plumbing or drainage problems or build-up of garden beds. After fixing, monitor the area for improvements – Consider recent changes to the building or surrounds, such as new concrete floors, render, external paving or garden beds that can bridge the damp proof course or affect ventilation. Options could include introducing a separation from the affected wall (such as with a narrow trench) or replacing the floor/paving to a lower level – Improve ventilation, for example by clearing underfloor rubbish or blocked air vents

– Monitor signs of salt attack, such as white or brown deposits, crumbling or separation of the outer ‘skin’ of bricks or sandstone and deteriorating mortar. Seek specialist advice on the extent of rising damp and potential solutions, including: • Sacrificial treatments – using a deliberately weak mortar, plaster or render to prevent damage to brick or stone • Treatments to remove excessive salt, such as absorbent poultices or dry vacuuming • Installing a new damp-proof course • Improving ventilation, for example with an air drain

Things to avoid DO NOT

– Replace a ventilated floor with concrete slab or install external paving too close to the walls of a heritage buildings. This can cause problems with damp, by preventing evaporation or splashing water onto walls – Paint or render over unpainted/unrendered brick or stone. Water repellent coatings can prevent a masonry wall from breathing and cause further damage – Repoint with impermeable cement mortar, which can force water into and damage surrounding bricks – Build up garden beds or install sprinkler systems close to heritage buildings as these could cause problems with damp

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

PESTS

A range of pests can damage heritage buildings. Birds, mice or rats may nest in buildings. Insects such as borers and termites can damage timber.

Maintenance principles DO

– Clean and clear gutters and underfloor areas and address damp (see page 30) to help deter pests – Maintain gardens and inspect older trees to assist with termite control – Check for signs of insects. Borers leave small flight holes in timber. Signs of termite infestation might include: • mud tubes from the ground to timber stumps or frames • movement of timber elements such as architraves, or mouldings • signs of mud tracking appearing from cracks in plastered walls • timber that sounds hollow when tapped • rippling in the surface of painted or polished timber • feeling of ‘give’ in floors that previously felt firm – Engage an experienced pest control contractor to inspect and treat pest infestations Learn more Department for Environment and Heritage, Maintenance and repair of older buildings, Technical note 3.1, 2008, available at environment.sa.gov.au/files/sharedassets/ public/heritage/tech_note3_1.pdf

Termites can build mud tubes around a barrier from a timber stump to a frame. (Source: CSIRO Forestry and Forest Products)

MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

ASBESTOS

Asbestos was widely used as a building material from 1919 until the early 1980s. It is commonly found in eaves, wall cladding, roofing, around pipes in bathrooms and laundries, and in fences.

Exposure to asbestos can cause permanent damage to your health, including mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.

Maintenance principles DO – Be informed about the laws surrounding asbestos handling and removal – Use a WorkSafe licensed asbestos removalist to handle, transport and dispose of asbestos – Seek advice from an architect or Registered Building Practitioner when planning works

Things to avoid DO NOT

Allow anyone to start work on your heritage property until you know whether there is any asbestos in the building

Learn more Victorian Government, Asbestos in Victoria , available at asbestos.vic.gov.au City of Casey, Handling Asbestos , available at casey.vic.gov.au/handling-asbestos

Older buildings commonly include asbestos.

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

INTERIORS

Most residential heritage places in Casey do not have internal planning controls. However, many heritage places have distinct spatial layouts and original internal features – such as original ceilings, floors, fireplaces and internal doors and windows – that would desirably be retained and maintained.

Heritage places that have internal controls may require a planning permit to undertake internal alterations.

Tip for owners You can check if your property has internal controls by contacting the City of Casey’s Heritage Planner, or finding your property in the Schedule to the Heritage Overlay (Clause 43.01) The Casey Planning Scheme is available at planning-schemes.delwp.vic.gov.au/schemes/ casey

Maintenance principles DO

– Understand whether your house has original internal features, such as plasterwork, timber floors or fireplaces – Respond to signs of decay or damage, such as cracks in plaster, or loose timbers. Address the causes of decay or damage such as dampness (see page 30), structural issues (see page 29) or pests (see page 31) – Repair damaged areas only to the extent required – Maintain original finishes on internal walls, floors or joinery (such as original paint colours on walls or oil finishes on timber)

Learn more Repair of Tongue and Groove Floorboards, State of Victoria, 2007, available at heritage.vic.gov.au/resource-library

MAINTAINING YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

5.0

MAKING CHANGES TO YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

CITY OF CASEY: HERITAGE HANDBOOK

Heritage places need to be protected, but they do not need to be frozen in time.

Sometimes change is needed to address problems, to meet the needs of residents or to secure the future use and viability of a place.

The following section sets out some general principles for making changes to a heritage place, including renovations and larger scale repairs. It includes some specific guidance on common scenarios where change might be required.

MAKING CHANGES TO YOUR HERITAGE PROPERTY

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