The SAVE value (Survey of Architectural Values in the Environment) is Denmark’s systematic method for assessing the architectural and cultural heritage value of buildings. It uses a scale from 1 to 9 — where 1 is the highest value and 9 is the lowest. Buildings scoring 1–4 are considered worth preserving.
Why does it matter to you?
If your home has a high SAVE value (1–4), your municipality may restrict what changes you can make to the exterior — and in some cases the interior. This can affect:
- Colour choices for facades and windows
- Window and door replacements
- Extensions and additions
- Demolition
SAVE values are often used as the basis for conservation policies in local development plans (lokalplaner). A high SAVE score doesn’t mean your building is legally listed (fredet) — that’s a separate, stronger form of protection — but it does trigger local planning restrictions.
The five sub-values
The SAVE score combines five assessments:
- Architectural value — quality of design and materials
- Cultural-historical value — connection to local history
- Environmental value — fit with the surrounding streetscape
- Original state — how unchanged the building is
- Condition — physical state of the building
How to find your SAVE value
SAVE values are registered in the Danish Heritage Agency’s database (FBB) and can be found via kulturarv.dk or the municipality’s planning maps.
Frequently asked questions
Does a high SAVE value prevent me from renovating?
Not automatically. But your municipality may require that alterations preserve the original character of the building — for instance, wooden windows rather than plastic.
Is a SAVE-listed building the same as a listed building (fredet)?
No. Listed buildings (fredede) are protected by national law and require approval from the Danish Agency for Culture and Palaces. A high SAVE value triggers local planning restrictions only.
Can the SAVE value change?
Yes. Municipalities review SAVE assessments periodically. New surveys can raise or lower values.