Conservation work is generally concerned with the protection of fabric and enhancing the significance of a heritage place. Such work has become increasingly important and popular, but each place is different, so a variety of approaches and techniques for conservation are required.

Before you begin any conservation work, thorough research and planning are important. A rule of thumb is to do no more than is necessary to a heritage building.

These elements should be considered in the planning process:

• respect the historical context
• identify the likely impact of change on the cultural significance of the place
• avoid uses that dilute or obscure cultural significance
• give preference to reversible changes
• give preference to additions and alterations which reinforce and do not blur historical appearance
• store material unavoidably removed for possible future reinstatement.

Conservation management plans provide further information about heritage places and give essential guidelines for future use and development. Many of these plans are commissioned by property owners, while others are initiated by state or local government agencies.