Tools & Resources

Successful historic home restoration depends on access to accurate information, qualified professionals, and financial resources. This collection of tools and resources helps Virginia homeowners navigate the restoration process, from initial research through project completion. Whether you're seeking tax credit guidance, technical specifications, or professional referrals, these resources provide essential support for preservation projects.

Government Resources

Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR)

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources is the state agency responsible for historic preservation. DHR administers the Virginia Landmarks Register, oversees the state historic tax credit program, maintains survey files on historic properties, and provides technical assistance to homeowners.

National Park Service

The National Park Service's preservation programs set national standards and provide extensive technical resources. The Preservation Briefs and Tech Notes offer authoritative guidance on virtually every aspect of historic restoration.

Local Preservation Commissions

Many Virginia localities have historic preservation commissions that review exterior changes to designated historic properties. Contact your local planning department to determine if your property is subject to local historic district regulations.

Tax Credit Resources

Federal Historic Tax Credit

The 20% Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit applies to income-producing historic properties. The National Park Service tax incentives page provides application forms, guidance, and case studies.

Virginia Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit

Virginia's 25% state credit applies to both owner-occupied and income-producing historic properties. DHR administers the program and provides application guidance.

Tax Credit Calculators

Several online calculators help estimate potential tax credits. Note that these provide estimates only—consult with preservation tax credit professionals for project-specific calculations.

Professional Directories

Preservation Virginia Professional Directory

Preservation Virginia maintains a directory of preservation professionals including architects, contractors, and consultants experienced in historic work.

Association for Preservation Technology

The Association for Preservation Technology International (APTI) certifies preservation professionals and maintains a member directory.

American Institute of Architects Virginia

AIA Virginia can help connect homeowners with architects experienced in historic preservation projects.

Research Resources

Library of Congress

The Historic American Buildings Survey collection contains measured drawings, photographs, and written histories of thousands of Virginia structures.

Virginia Historical Society

The Virginia Museum of History and Culture maintains extensive archives including property records, photographs, and manuscripts relevant to historic research.

Local Libraries and Archives

Local historical societies, public libraries, and courthouses hold deed records, historic photographs, and local histories essential for researching individual properties.

Grant and Funding Resources

Preservation Virginia Grants

Preservation Virginia administers small grants for endangered historic properties and offers the Virginia Preservation Easement program.

Community Development Block Grants

Many Virginia localities use CDBG funds for historic preservation projects that benefit low-income communities.

Foundation Funding

Various private foundations support historic preservation in Virginia. The Virginia Humanities and local community foundations may offer grants for preservation projects.

Emergency Resources

Disaster Response

When disasters strike historic properties, rapid response can prevent permanent damage. National Park Service disaster response resources provide guidance on salvage and stabilization.

Virginia Emergency Management

The Virginia Department of Emergency Management coordinates disaster response and can provide information about disaster assistance for historic properties.