What Are Preservation Briefs?

The National Park Service has developed a series of Preservation Briefs to help property owners, architects, and preservation professionals make informed decisions about caring for historic buildings. These guides provide practical advice on identifying and addressing common preservation challenges before work begins.

With 50 in-depth briefs, this resource is especially valuable for those utilizing the Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Program, offering best practices that align with maintaining a building’s historic integrity.

How to Use These Briefs

Preservation Briefs are designed for anyone involved in historic building care, including homeowners, preservation professionals, and municipal officials. They offer step-by-step guidance for a variety of restoration and rehabilitation efforts. Here’s how to make the most of them:

  • Homeowners: Learn how to maintain and restore historic features while avoiding common pitfalls.

  • Architects & Contractors: Use these briefs as a technical reference when planning rehabilitation projects.

  • Local Governments & Preservation Commissions: Apply these guidelines to preservation planning and compliance with local regulations.

For those unfamiliar with historic preservation, start with Preservation Brief #1: Assessing Historic Buildings to gain an understanding of the fundamental principles.