ABSTRACT
This paper presents the qualitative research on the importance and function of Monumentenwacht in The Netherlands in relation to the preventive conservation of monuments. The focus was on Monumentenwacht North Brabant. The main part of the research was carried out within the JPI ‘CHANGES’ project, based on the results obtained in a previous study. The chosen approach was bottom up—monuments, work of inspectors and role of owners—and top down—theory of preventive conservation and role of the Dutch Cultural Heritage Agency (RCE). Interviews showed the appreciation of Monumentenwacht by users of the reports. In the case of non-iconic monuments a shift in the role and activities of Monumentenwacht, from signalling issues to advising owners, was hypothesised, showing an adaptation to changes in Dutch conservation practice. This was confirmed by preliminary quantitative results of an inquiry. Suggestions are made for empowering inspectors and owners by conveying knowledge (from research) to Monumentenwacht.
