Period property · pre-1837
Georgian plumbing:
lead, brass and lime plaster.
Georgian houses around Barnsbury, Canonbury and Clerkenwell have almost always been re-plumbed more than once - expect a mix of original lead supply pipework, early copper and later additions, all running through soft lime plaster and historic timber.
What we typically find
- Original lead supply pipes are common and best replaced on health grounds - there is no safe level of lead in drinking water.
- Original brass ironmongery, valves and taps are heritage features: we repair and retain rather than strip out.
- Soft lime plaster, lath-and-plaster walls and historic timber floors mean pipe runs must avoid cutting historic fabric.
- A high share of Georgian stock here is listed or in a conservation area - assume listed-building consent may apply before chasing into original plaster, stone or beams.
Listed-building note
Georgian properties in Islington are frequently listed or within conservation areas. Cutting into original fabric, or altering anything externally visible, typically needs listed-building consent - we'll flag it before work starts.
How we handle listed-building workNot sure what yours needs?
Our period-property tool gives you a tailored briefing in about a minute - era, property type, the job you're planning, and whether consent is likely.
Try the period-property toolWorking on a georgian home?
Book a site visit for planned work, or call straight through for a 24-hour emergency. Forty years on Goswell Road - the same family, the same answer when you call.
Tell us about your property
Booking a site visit, chasing a quote or dealing with an emergency - reach us however suits. We cover Islington, Clerkenwell and across North London.