In short
- East Horsley's Victorian Lovelace buildings, in flint and brick, are a defining local feature and should never be rendered over.
- Many homes are interwar and post-war detached houses on large plots, often suitable for silicone render.
- Conservation areas and listed buildings are present in both villages.
- Land to the south rises into the Surrey Hills National Landscape.
Lovelace heritage
In the nineteenth century the Earl of Lovelace built a remarkable series of estate buildings in and around East Horsley, in knapped flint with decorative brick and distinctive detailing. They define the village's character, and many are listed. They should not be rendered. Repairs call for specialist masons and lime mortars.
Interwar and later houses
Much of the Horsleys was developed between the wars and after, with detached houses on large, leafy plots. These are usually cavity-walled and well suited to silicone render if you want to change their appearance. The large plots and mature trees mean shaded elevations; plan for algae-resistant finishes and occasional cleaning.
Planning
Guildford Borough Council currently handles planning here. Surrey's district and borough councils are being replaced by new unitary councils, so check which authority handles planning at the time you apply. Both villages include conservation areas, and land to the south lies within the Surrey Hills National Landscape. In both, rendering an unrendered house is not permitted development.
Typical jobs
- Re-rendering 1930s detached houses in a smooth, off-white silicone.
- Matching render on extensions and garage conversions.
- Cleaning algae-stained render under trees.
Questions people ask
Can I render my house in East Horsley?
If it is outside the conservation area and the Surrey Hills and not listed, rendering is usually permitted development. Lovelace buildings should not be rendered.
Do you cover Effingham?
Yes, along with East Horsley, West Horsley and Ockham.