
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

Power tools sale: Get your hands on the best deals in the Christmas sale
By Jack Woodfield last updated
In need of a new cordless drills, saws or sanders? Then check out the best power tool sale deals from Bosch, Black+Decker, Ryobi and more

Air source heat pump grants you need to know about right now
By Jack Woodfield published
Air source heat pump grants such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme help to lower upfront costs — and most homeowners will be eligible for at least one type of grant

Heat pumps could be cheaper than boilers to install through Octopus and Lloyds partnership
By Jack Woodfield published
Octopus Energy has partnered with Lloyds Banking Group to help homeowners pay less for heat pumps — some installs could potentially be less than the cost of a new gas boilers

Grand Designs sees Kevin McCloud return to an eco home which took over two decades to build
By Jack Woodfield published
Building work first began on this Devon eco home in 1999, but the house is now "resplendent with 20 years of care", according to host Kevin McCloud during the Grand Design revisit

OVO Energy free smart boiler trial announced — here’s how to apply
By Jack Woodfield published
Ovo Energy customers can apply to have a £7,500 smart boiler installed for free as part of a 12-month trial — not only do they get to keep it, but it could lower energy bills too

3D printed houses to be constructed in the UK for the first time
By Jack Woodfield published
The first 3D printed house project has begun in the UK which could reduce traditional build costs by 30%, its developers say

Elderly couple thanks ‘angel in disguise’ after receiving free boiler replacement
By Jack Woodfield published
An anonymous donation and a plumber's goodwill ensure a couple in their 70s were not left without a boiler this winter

Grand Designs sees £550k eco 'fortress' finally completed after seven years
By Jack Woodfield published
This week's Grand Designs revisit saw a masonry builder challenge himself to build an eco home, which now costs very little to run

EDF Energy unveils neighbourhood share scheme to drive heat pump uptake
By Jack Woodfield published
EDF Energy is launching a project where homeowners can share a ground source heat pump loop with their neighbours, and an app to help you choose the right heat pump

Industry body warns councils to stop adding obstacles to block self builders
By Jack Woodfield published
Self build industry body NaCSBA has criticised “a minority of local authorities” for imposing unsuitable financial tests on those looking to build their own home

The most commonly botched home DIY job has been revealed
By Jack Woodfield published
Make sure you avoid any DIY nightmares this Halloween by studying this list of jobs that amateur DIYers fail at the most

Grand Designs revisit showcases ‘beautiful’ off-grid self build in Somerset
By Jack Woodfield published
A Grand Designs revisit saw host Kevin McCloud impressed by an off-grid self build demonstrating a ‘beautiful and desirable’ way of living

Right to Repair: New Rules Become Law to Extend Lifespan of Appliances
By Jack Woodfield last updated
The Right to Repair rules could make appliances last longer and save homeowners money on white goods

How to get a heat pump plus installation for around £5k
By Jack Woodfield published
You’ll now be able to buy a heat pump on the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and British Gas will install it for just £4,999 under new plans

New permitted development rights overhaul may make it easier to add extensions, report suggests
By Jack Woodfield published
Leaked documents suggest plans are being discussed to increase the scope of permitted development rights so more homeowners can add extensions without planning permission

World Mental Health Day: How to manage stress during a building project
By Jack Woodfield published
Marking World Mental Health Day, the Homebuilding & Renovating team offers up pointers for managing stress during a build or renovation

World Mental Health Day: Survey Reveals the Importance of Our Homes on Mental Health
By Jack Woodfield last updated
Marking World Mental Health Day, a new study reveals the health benefits associated with good home design

National Grid lays out its blackouts plan for power shortages this winter — What you need to know
By Jack Woodfield published
National Grid has laid out its blackout strategies for dealing with power shortages this winter. Here’s what they are

Grand Designs couple builds transformative £1.8m pavilion after life-altering tragedy
By Jack Woodfield published
Kevin McCloud follows a couple's glass-walled pavilion build, designed to suit their drastically-changed requirements

New Heat Pump Design Could Improve Efficiency and Cut Running Costs
By Jack Woodfield last updated
Engineers in Scotland have developed a new heat pump prototype that may revolutionise the technology

Will Charlotte Church’s house renovation get planning? TV show returns with doubts
By Jack Woodfield published
Charlotte Church’s house renovation is still facing planning challenges as Series 2 of her TV show "Dream House" returns

Get expert home energy advice with our new Homebuilding Show features
By Jack Woodfield last updated
The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show will include two new features to help you lower your home’s energy usage - get two free tickets now
Bring your dream home to life with expert advice, how to guides and design inspiration. Sign up for our newsletter and get two free tickets to a Homebuilding & Renovating Show near you.