
Jack Woodfield
Jack has worked in journalism for over a decade and was the former News Editor of Homebuilding & Renovating between 2019 until 2023. In his time as News Editor he broke the most relevant and beneficial stories for self builders, extenders and renovators, including the latest news on the construction materials shortage, planning permission and green initiatives. In 2021 he appeared on BBC's The World at One to discuss the government's planning reforms.
He enjoys testing new tools and gadgets, and having bought his first home in 2013, he has renovated every room and recently finished a garden renovation.
Latest articles by Jack Woodfield

Energy Price Guarantee ends — what you need to know
By Joseph Mullane last updated
The Energy Price Guarantee has now ended with energy prices instead reverting back to the energy price cap

Government delays ECO Plus launch and rebrands it as the Great British Insulation Scheme
By Jack Woodfield last updated
The government's ECO Plus scheme has been rebranded and delayed until summer 2023. It will now focus on helping households with funding for new insulation, which could lower energy bills by £300-400 a year

The £400 energy grant ends but there's a different payment from April for those in need
By Jack Woodfield last updated
The £400 energy grant scheme ended in April 2023, but there's a different payment worth £900 available from April 25th for those that need it most

Gas boiler alternatives: Which system should you choose for your home?
By Jack Woodfield published
With gas boilers being phased out, it is worthwhile taking a closer look at the alternatives out there to replace them. Here we explain the options

Why your extension will cost more in 2023 — and expert tips for managing your budget
By Jack Woodfield published
Planning to extend your home in 2023? We look at why costs could be higher, and ask industry experts for their tips on keeping costs low and what to expect along the way

Disruption during heat pump installation is main barrier to uptake, says report
By Jack Woodfield published
Disruption during a heat pump installation requires “innovation” to overcome, but a new report suggests heat pumps are suitable for most types of UK homes

All new homes in Scotland to be built to Passivhaus standard, ministers confirm
By Jack Woodfield published
The Scottish government has confirmed it is introducing its own 'Passivhaus equivalent' rather than using existing Passivhaus certification

The ground source heat pump grants available for homeowners in 2023
By Jack Woodfield published
You can get thousands of pounds from ground source heat pump grants towards installing a new heating system – find out which grants are available and how to apply

Hydrogen-ready boilers could become mandatory from 2026
By Jack Woodfield published
Ahead of a prospective ban on new natural gas-only boilers, we examine how hydrogen-ready boilers work and why it could be beneficial to install one

Amazon sale: The best early Christmas deals on tools, smart home tech and more
By Jack Woodfield last updated
The Amazon Sale has some eye-catching Christmas deals for home improvers — save now on power tools and energy-efficient appliances

Does a dehumidifier heat a room? What to know if you're looking to lower your heating costs
By Jack Woodfield last updated
If you’re asking ‘does a dehumidifier heat a room?’ then you may be exploring new ways to heat your house — and this is a heating source worth exploring

A new grant in Scotland is offering £7,500 towards a heat pump
By Jack Woodfield published
The new Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan scheme will provide funding for heat pumps and other energy-efficient home improvements — here’s how it works

I installed MVHR and it has completely stopped condensation in my home
By David Hilton published
Energy expert David Hilton installed mechanical ventilation heat recovery (MVHR) into his existing home three years ago, and he says it was one of the best decisions he ever made

Our top picks: Self build plots and conversions for sale for under £100,000
By Jack Woodfield last updated
Looking for a new project in 2023? Here are some of the best self build and conversion opportunities available in December for a guide price of under £100,000

Popular Scotland Self Build Loan Fund reopens to help make self build finance more accessible
By Jack Woodfield published
The Scotland Self Build Loan Scheme provides those aspiring to build their own home who have been denied finance elsewhere with a loan of up to £175,000

Looking for deals on smart home gadgets? These bargains are live now
By Jack Woodfield last updated
We've rounded up the best smart home gadgets deals to help improve your home's IQ and lower your energy usage

The happiest place to live in the UK in 2022 has been revealed
By Jack Woodfield published
Rightmove’s annual Happy at Home Index has been released, which crowns the happiest place to live in the UK

The best Kärcher pressure washers to easily clean outdoor surfaces
By Jack Woodfield last updated
These are the best Kärcher pressure washers that efficiently clean cars, patios, decking and more with incredible results

The 6 best plastic sheds for low-maintenance outdoor storage
By Jack Woodfield last updated
These are the best plastic sheds from Keter, Duramax and others to suit a range of styles and garden sizes

Off peak energy rebate scheme begins 23 January, National Grid confirms
By Jack Woodfield published
National Grid launches its first off peak energy rebate scheme this week, which is designed to stave off blackout warnings this winter

7 things you should never say to your builder
By Sarah Handley last updated
A good relationship with your builder is crucial to a successful project. Here are seven things you should never say if you want to keep on good terms

Building Regulations Part L: Your ultimate guide to the new changes
By Paul Hymers last updated
Changes to Building Regulations Part L take effect from 15 June - here’s how they could impact self builders and extenders

Building regulations changes now in effect - here's what you need to know
By Jack Woodfield last updated
Important new Building Regs changes have come into force which will now impact new homes and some existing homes
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