The Ontario Heritage Act gives the legal power to municipal governments (councils) to designate heritage properties. Amendments to the act in 2005 give the Ontario Heritage Trust the authority to advise the Minister of Tourism and Culture on heritage designations of provincially significant properties – an important new power that will help preserve Ontario's built and cultural heritage well into the future. Please note that:
Look in your own community for local historical societies and heritage organizations.
The Trust's book Well-Preserved, A Manual of Principles and Practice for Architectural Conservation is an excellent resource for anyone considering doing conservation work. In addition, the Ministry of Tourism and Culture provides technical bulletins and preservation approaches. The Canadian Association of Professional Heritage Consultants (CAPHC) offers a publication with tendering guidelines for hiring a heritage consultant.
An accredited restoration architect or heritage consultant will make the restoration work more cost-efficient (i.e. when and how to restore). They are also able to make informed decisions about appropriate restoration techniques that will maintain the heritage value and character of the building.
There are a number of places you can find this information:
In all cases, you should check references before engaging their services.
There are no ongoing grant programs in Ontario at this time. Please contact your local municipal council members and provincial/federal members of Parliament. In addition, Regional Ministry Offices in your community may be of further assistance.