My background is in project management and the conservation of heritage buildings. The first aspects to identify are the heritage values of the building. This includes the architectural, historical, environmental and social values. The building has a history in the community, both socially and as a business, as it is also a corporate building. It is a matter of being very familiar with the building.
In terms of these sorts of projects, I have had similar requests from other agencies. They wanted to know how to conserve a building and where to start. At first, it is important to contact the municipal officials to find out to what extent the building is rooted in the history of the municipality. So there's research and work to be done with the elected officials. Even if it is a business project, a private building, there is still a major social aspect.
As you may know, there are historical societies in communities, and the members, who are volunteers, can be of great help in confirming the information. By rooting the building in the community, it can be carried by the community. It is a simple answer, but a heritage building is not independent from the community. It must be carried by the community.
So it is important to bring people together by showcasing the heritage values of the building and its importance for the community, as well as by sparking interest in the building from some local organizations and stakeholders, including the elected officials, of course.