VAT on construction and building projects is a contentious issue! I am currently managing a construction project with three levels of VAT associated with it – 20%, 5% and zero%. Now, of course, the industry (and homeowners) would say that more works would be carried out, to the betterment of the economy generally, if all…
The wonderful world of the Building Research Establishment I was lucky enough to be part of a tour of the BRE (building research establishment) the other day. I knew that it was involved in certification and in testing of materials but had no idea quite how extensive and intensive its operations were so the trip…
Add a porch to your house for cleanliness and comfort Adding a porch to your home is not just about adding an additional feature, it’s about creating a space where the outside detritus is contained and that’s really important in a colder climate. Think of all the leaves, grass and mud tracked into the house…
More good news on planning permission regulations in the United Kingdom The latest Housing Pipeline report tells us that year on year planning approvals have risen a good 10% despite the first quarter of this year showing a decrease. Over 40 000 permissions were given in the first quarter but it’s felt that this is…
On April 16th Kevin McCloud will chair a public debate at RIBA on skyscrapers entitled – “Are Tall Buildings Blighting Our Skyline?” Amtico, via our Twitterfeed, has asked us for our views. We don’t, as yet, get involved in too many skyscrapers – the tallest project I have been involved in is the 15 storey…
What are you hoping for from this New Year? I am hoping for some changes to the Planning System this year. Not to get more houses built, but to change the way that we build them. At present we have a two part system with the planning separated from the Building Regulations. This has made sense historically…
Building Regulations are Changing in England On the 20th Dec 2012 the Government announced key changes to the Building Regulation ensuring clearer and concise documents. New approved Documents are: Approved Document K – Protection from falling, collision and impact. 2013 edition (for use in England) takes effect 6th April 2013 Approved Document P – Electrical…