Thames Water announces new hosepipe ban, affecting over 1 million homes Joseph Mullane published 15 July 25 Thames Water to restrict usage in parts of southern England as they claim there is an urgent need to “make every drop count”
Who will be crowned Shed of the Year 2025? You decide Joseph Mullane published 14 July 25 22 incredible sheds, 1 national title – cast your vote and help crown Britain’s most brilliant backyard creation
How many homes have Labour managed to build in their first year in power? Joseph Mullane published 14 July 25 Statistics reveal the government is over 110k short of its annual housing targets
Self-builders could skip the queue with new fast-track route for building regulations approval Joseph Mullane published 13 July 25 Government introduces a dedicated fast‑track approval process, 100+ new Building Safety Regulator staff and in‑house teams to slash delays for self‑build regulations
Council’s £70k error stayed hidden for years, until one man refused to back down Joseph Mullane published 13 July 25 A Godalming resident’s six-year battle with Waverley Borough Council over a misapplied £70,000 planning charge has laid bare a culture of bureaucratic inflexibility and institutional delay
Manchester to become UK’s heat pump capital with historic five-year agreement Joseph Mullane published 12 July 25 Manchester are leading the way on low-carbon heating with plans for 64,000 heat pump installations by 2030
Using a dehumidifier to dry paint is not the shortcut you think it is — here's why it won't work By Gabriella Dyson published 15 July 25 Using a dehumidifier to make paint dry might seem clever, but experts warn it could ruin your paint finish and damage your appliance in the process.
Pre-application advice: What is it and does it guarantee planning permission or not? By Simon Rix last updated 14 July 25 Planning Hub Planning consultant, Simon Rix explains everything you need to know about pre-application advice including its pros, cons and when it makes good sense to use it
The secrets of successfully bricking up a window as revealed by experts By Natasha Brinsmead published 14 July 25 If you have a window that needs bricking up making sure you read our experts' tips for a seamless finish first
How to paint wardrobe doors to give a fresh look to your bedroom By Steve Jenkins published 13 July 25 Get expert advice on the paint, tools and techniques you’ll need to know to paint tired wardrobe doors
How to keep your home safe from burglars — essential security strategies By Sarah Warwick published 12 July 25 Get savvy about the home security products and measures that reduce the risk of thieves breaking into your home
I never start a decorating project without this £9 Amazon buy by my side — this is why you need to add one to your tool collection By Steve Jenkins published 11 July 25 If you want to speed up your paint projects, make less mess and work like a pro, then investing in a paint scuttle is a must
A home for life — how this couple created their dream home on a dream plot in the Cotswolds By Seán O'Connell published 11 July 25 Inspired by a visit to the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, Ian and Louise embarked on the journey of building their dream oak frame home
See how this standard Victorian semi in south London is transformed by a unique French-farmhouse style extension By Jennifer Grimble published 27 June 25 A rear and side return extension allowed this couple to create a French-inspired kitchen and dining space fit for the whole family
'Building in a flood risk area comes with lots of challenges' – see how this homeowner successfully created a waterside home on a complex plot By Alex Pratt published 20 June 25 A significant number of obstacles stood between this homeowner and his dream of a self-build home on a tricky riverside plot
A remarkable turn of events helps a retired couple build a home for themselves in their greatest moment of need By Debbie Jeffery published 30 May 25 A heartwarming collaboration between a retired couple and a group of young volunteer builders has resulted in a unique and accessible timber eco-home
A tale of two homes: Victorian heritage meets modern design in this dual dwelling By Joseph Mullane published 25 May 25 Discover a beautifully renovated Victorian villa paired with a contemporary garden house in Battersea
'The look of disbelief on everyone’s face when they see the space we've created is priceless' – step inside this cleverly extended mid-terrace home By Jo Messenger published 24 May 25 Award-winning interiors, double-height spaces and exceptional natural light make this London mid-terrace home a treasure trove of inspiration
How to paint wardrobe doors to give a fresh look to your bedroom By Steve Jenkins published 13 July 25 Get expert advice on the paint, tools and techniques you’ll need to know to paint tired wardrobe doors
I'm a heritage bricklayer and this is how to avoid common mistakes when repointing brickwork By Pete Wise published 3 July 25 A third-generation bricklayer and a property expert discuss the most common repointing mistakes and how to avoid them. Find out the right way to prepare your brickwork and apply fresh mortar.
Are you having thermostatic valve problems? The pros reveal how to identify and fix issues By Steve Jenkins published 3 July 25 Learn how to recognise thermostatic valve problems so you can sort yourself or call in a professional
What is the ideal radiator height from floor? Pros reveal the answer — but it's not as simple as you might think By Steve Jenkins published 30 June 25 Getting the right radiator height from the floor will ensure efficient and effective heating of your home
Can you use plastic pipes for heating systems? Copper vs plastic pipes explained By Steve Jenkins published 27 June 25 Our expert dives into the pros and cons of plastic and copper pipes for your heating system
Cracked and chipped flooring? How to replace a broken floor tile without causing damage elsewhere By Steve Jenkins published 26 June 25 Restore your floor to avoid damaged tiling becoming a hazard
9 decking cover ideas that will instantly transform your deck into a 24/7 space, whatever the weather By Sarah Wilson published 13 July 25 Turn your deck into a year-round destination with these practical overhead solutions
These 13 real-life loft balcony ideas turn overlooked spaces into the best seat in the house By Gabriella Dyson published 30 June 25 From Juliet balconies to rooftop retreats, these expert-approved ideas show how to add style and space to your loft conversion with a balcony that works year-round
12 oak frame porch ideas that are pretty, practical and can be sized to suit By Sarah Harley published 29 June 25 Pretty as a picture, oak frame porch ideas can add a sense of rustic charm while providing practical cover from the weather
If you only light one area of your garden, make sure it's this one – experts say it will help to boost safety, style and security By Sarah Wilson published 28 June 25 Illuminate the way with these innovative garden path lighting ideas that will turn a functional landscaping element into a design feature
The best bathroom extractor fans to combat condensation and damp By Jack Woodfield last updated 8 July 25 The best bathroom extractor fans must efficiently and quietly circulate fresh air into a space while also removing moisture-laden air to stop mould forming. They also want to look the part too. We've gathered the top buys to make choosing easy
An expert guide to the 7 best cordless strimmers — from budget options to the best overall model By Jack Woodfield, Teresa Conway last updated 8 July 25 We've scoured the market for the best cordless strimmers to help you choose the perfect tool to keep your lawn and garden looking neat and tidy with minimal effort
Choose one of these 9 best cordless drills to help you power through your next DIY project By Sarah Handley, Garry Martin, Jack Woodfield last updated 7 July 25 The best cordless drills will help you tackle your next DIY project with ease. Choose from our selection of budget, mid- and top of the range cordless drills
Looking for the best bathroom sealants to stop leaks and prevent mould? Here are six of our favourites for 2025 By Jack Woodfield last updated 7 July 25 Finding the best bathroom sealants for your needs is crucial for sealing gaps and preventing water leaks that can cause unseen water damage. Here you’ll find a selection of highly rated sealants that match your sanitary ware
Get your hands on the best vacuum cleaners for builders and say goodbye to dust and debris By Hugh Metcalf, Steve Jenkins last updated 4 July 25 We roundup the best vacuum cleaners to keep your space free of dust and debris during a house renovation or DIY project
The best 6 integrated dishwashers of 2025 By Amy Reeves, Natasha Brinsmead, Steve Jenkins, Joseph Mullane last updated 4 July 25 We’ve put together a list that covers all bases and will help you make the right decision for you and your kitchen
