We’re contracted to manage the build of a cottage extension in Wiltshire comprising a double garage and a double storey extension to the rear. We’re then to remodel the space to create a new en-suite bedroom, a new family bathroom upstairs plus an enlarged breakfast/kitchen area on the ground floor.
The managing director of Charlie Laing Ltd on tea and biscuits, the wisdom of Ben Goldacre and buying swords online for his son What is your favourite website? BBC Sport homepage – dull but true. What is your worst digital habit? The ever growing inbox. More things seem to arrive than leave and it’s a struggle to…
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 Big Green Home Show is returning to The National Self Build & Renovation Centre for its fifth year this October. A massive three day show from 25-27 October 2013, the Show attracts self-builders, renovators and home-owners looking to either build using sustainable materials or introduce renewable energy systems to save money on utility bills. A…
Anyone read the book ‘Build your own brick house’ yet? It’s out and a good read for all DIYers who are serious about building their own home! Written by Gerald Cole, this book takes you step by step through the processes and practicalities of building your own home in the UK in brick. It’s a…
Building your own home is demanding and you need to be able to juggle really well. Juggling priorities, suppliers, materials and costs as well as the family is a large part of self builds and many people who do end up building a house to live in only find that out half way through the…
I was interviewed recently for ‘Costing the Earth’ on Radio 4 for a programme that they are running on ‘Eco Homes‘ (due out 12th March if you are interested). One question they asked me was: “Why are so few people building their own homes in this country as opposed to the numbers being built on…
Talking about insulation of central heating pipes… You’ve specified a band A condensing boiler, you know how to set it up, the radiators are the right size and you think you can now relax and let the plumber install it all, right? Actually no! There is one more area you must pay attention to or…
Do I need an Enabling Developer? Grant Shapps, the Housing Minister, recently announced a £30 million Custom Build Investment Fund that should give the self-build market a boost. This fund offers short-term loans to those looking to undertake self-build projects and is geared to helping early stage costs such as land purchase and service provision. …
Why not attend a seminar or masterclass at the South’s biggest Self-build & Renovation Event, 30th June – 1st July in Esher, Surrey If you are at the start of a building project and need some inspiration, or are thinking of extending your home, updating or renovating your property, come and see us next weekend at the…