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Everything you need to know about building or renovating your own home - from finding a plot to fitting a skirting board. If you're new to the idea, check out our Beginner's section. We've also got leading expert advice on project success, planning permission, technical guides, DIY projects and much more.

  • 1/5: Basement Design Guide

    A basement is often the best way to increase space without impacting on the house’s...

  • 2/5: Wall and Ceiling Finishes

    One question facing self-builders is whether to go for a wet or dry system of wall covering. The...

  • 3/5: How to Choose a Build Route

    There is more than one way to build a house or extension. This means that, if you’re looking...

  • 4/5: Green Roofs

    How ‘Green’ Are They? Green roofs are, without doubt, one of the more visible signals...

  • 5/5: Affordable Housing Contributions

    The requirement to contribute to local affordable housing used to be targeted at big developers. No...

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  • Self Build Mortgages: Current Rates

    Updated

    This regularly updated article features the current self build mortgage rates being offered by a wide range of building societies. All data is sourced from moneyfacts.co.uk

  • How to Tile like a Pro

    Updated

    When it comes to home improvements, many of us are comfortable undertaking tasks such as painting or wallpapering. Some people draw the line at installing floor tiles, opting for a professional to do the job instead. In reality, tiling needn’t be...

  • Solar Power: In Depth Guide

    Updated

    An in depth guide to solar power. Includes advice on thermal, PV, PVT and more.

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  • Reclaiming VAT

    How do you claim your money — and maximise your savings? We explain the reclaiming process.

  • Subsidence Solutions

    Is subsidence necessarily terminal for an old house? Natasha Brinsmead investigates how to spot the signs, how to treat it and what the long term implications may be.

  • Loft Conversion Beginner's Guide

    Unused attic space can become valuable living accommodation quite easily — and at surprisingly low cost. James Hatter explains all you need to know.

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  • Are these extension costs too high?

    A friend of mine has just had a quote through for a small extension that comes in at around £3,000/m2 - it's a for a small utility room extension that can't be any bigger than 5m2 in new space. Builder initially quoted £14,000 but went...

    Answers: 6
    Views: 21,089

  • Cost of electricity connection to new build

    I have just recieved a quotation for an electricity connection to my new self build, the price seems a little high for what they actually have to do . (7,000 pounds)
    The connection will be a single phase supply off the main line which...

    Answers: 7
    Views: 18,869

  • What's the cheapest way to self-build?

    For a complete beginner with no skills, other than organising, what is the cheapest form of self-building? Blockwork, timber frame, hay bale, you name it — I’d be interested to know which construction route is the most cost-effective for me?

    Answers: 3
    Views: 17,319
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