News

Combi-boilers can save homeowners space and money

Internal Administrator — Wed, 16 May 2012 11:50:39 GMT

Investing in a combi-boiler will give property owners the chance to increase the size of their bathroom, according to an expert. Andrew Aitken, area sales manager for East Midlands for Remeha, explained that homes with a traditional system will often feature a tank in the loft, a hot water cylinder in the airing cupbo

DIY enables people to 'express creativity'

Internal Administrator — Wed, 16 May 2012 11:50:35 GMT

DIY gives people the opportunity to express creativity within their homes. This is the verdict of Paul Minderides, a professional tradesman from Wickes, who noted that home improvement work enables individuals to get their hands dirty in areas where they do not usually. Now that the summer is on the horizon, many

Nearly 3.5m UK homeowners are without sufficient home insurance

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 May 2012 16:11:01 GMT

Almost 3.5 million homeowners across the UK are without adequate home insurance , research shows. This equates to almost one in ten homeowners (nine per cent), indicating that a high number of residents are putting their possessions at risk by not having satisfactory cover, according to a study by MoneySupermarket.co

More investment in home improvements is 'needed'

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 May 2012 16:11:00 GMT

More money is needed to help with investments in home improvement work, one expert has insisted. Many people cannot afford to make ends meet because of the current economic climate, which has made it extremely difficult for households to carry out renovations, a representative from the National Home Improvement Counci

Home refurbishments can 'transform minds'

Internal Administrator — Fri, 11 May 2012 16:10:54 GMT

Home renovations can alter residents' mindsets and lead to more positive moods, one expert has underlined. This is the opinion of charted psychologist and founder and director of research at Mindlab International David Lewis, who has advised that people have more chance of being in a good mood if they live in a ro

Homeowners warned to prepare for potential flooding

Internal Administrator — Mon, 07 May 2012 10:51:12 GMT

Flash floods can easily occur at this time of year, which is why a number of tips have been handed out by one organisation. Confused.com has urged people to complete a number of checks to guarantee that their property is protected against the threats of heavy downpours. Firstly, it has advised homeowners to ensure th

Bank holiday offers DIY opportunity for homeowners

Internal Administrator — Thu, 03 May 2012 16:30:22 GMT

The upcoming May bank holiday gives people an excellent opportunity to complete DIY work on their property. This is the verdict of interiors journalist Ellie Tenant, who believes that residents should use the extra day to get their hands dirty and boost the appearance of their home and fix any areas that require work.

Drought still on as Britain experiences wettest April ever

Internal Administrator — Tue, 01 May 2012 12:18:49 GMT

The risk of flooding in parts of Britain is still high after yet more overnight rain battered these shores. Despite the high levels of precipitation, making it the wettest April on record, the government has said that a hose pipe ban is still in place because of a drought. Nearly 20mm of rain came down in just 12 hou

Cheaper end of high street is still 'producing quality'

Internal Administrator — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 10:40:14 GMT

The cheaper end of the high street is still producing quality when it comes to interior design, it has been suggested. Even though many people are searching for longevity when they look for interior design items, they should not disregard the less expensive options available to them, according to Susan Llewellyn. Ms

Flood alerts issued after torrential downpours

Internal Administrator — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 10:40:10 GMT

A number of flood alerts have been issued after torrential downpours fell across England yesterday (April 25th). Various areas were affected by rainfall of up to two inches, amounting to the total downpour for a whole month, with the Environment Agency (EA) releasing flash flooding warns for numerous regions. These i

Homeowners showing more confidence when personalising property space

Internal Administrator — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:05:09 GMT

Property owners are demonstrating a higher level of confidence when personalising space in their properties, a specialist has claimed. Many people will be adopting a cautious approach when decorating their house to ensure that it remains appealing to potential future inhabitants if they decide to move elsewhere, but a

Flood alerts anticipated across UK in coming days

Internal Administrator — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 17:54:47 GMT

Flood alerts are expected to be issued across Britain in the coming days, even though the country is up against its most severe shortage of water in years. Rain has swept across the country so far this week, with experts suggesting that rainfall records could be broken this month because of frequent storms and potenti

Loft conversions may increase property value

Internal Administrator — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 17:54:42 GMT

There are a number of ways that homeowners can increase the value of their property, with loft conversions particularly advisable, one specialist has emphasised. Jason Orme, editor at Homebuilding & Renovating magazine, has claimed that such an improvement can help to maximise the value of homes, meaning that the

Police recover late Ben Hollioake's stolen cricket items

Internal Administrator — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 19:30:58 GMT

Police in Australia have recovered most of the late Ben Hollioake's cricket equipment after his parents' house was broken in to. The former Surrey and England star was killed in Perth aged just 24 in 2002 after having played in two Test matches and 20 one-day internationals for his country. Earlier this week

DIY needs balance between personal taste and value

Internal Administrator — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 19:30:53 GMT

When undertaking DIY, homeowners should try to achieve a balance between personal taste and value, one specialist has suggested. This is the verdict of Anna-Marie DeSouza, editor of Build It+ Home Improvement magazine, who has advised residents to think about what they can afford and what would add value to their pr

Flooding is major topic for Haydon Wick councillors

Internal Administrator — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 19:12:38 GMT

Flooding has become a key topic for Haydon Wick councillors, with residents expressing worries over the issue. Over 50 families were forced to evacuate their homes after floods in 2007, and one of those affected by the incident has now spoken to the Swindon Advertiser to emphasise the importance of a flood alleviati

'Insulation and low energy lighting' can help to lower energy bills

Internal Administrator — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:31:03 GMT

Insulation and low energy lighting are two key measures that homeowners can adopt in order to reduce their energy bills, one group has advised. With the economic climate piling more pressure than ever on Britons' pockets, it is important that residents save money whenever they can, which is why the latest tips f

Drought could increase risk of flash flooding

Internal Administrator — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:45:13 GMT

Drought conditions could increase the risk of flash flooding in many parts of the UK, experts have warned. According to the Environment Agency, dry compacted soils absorb water less easily, which means that any heavy rains in the future could cause flash floods. Currently, many areas in southern and eastern England a

Start small with first-time DIY

Internal Administrator — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 09:46:05 GMT

When trying out home improvements for the first time, it is important to stay within one's comfort zones, experts suggest. According to Anna-Marie DeSouza, editor of Build It and Home Improvement magazine, those who are considering some home improvements should start on a simple project and gradually increase thei

ABI publishes insurance tips for street parties

Internal Administrator — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:40:46 GMT

The upcoming Diamond Jubilee celebrations mean that many Britons will be celebrating with a traditional street party. Fortunately, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has published a helpful guide on how to organise this kind of event. ABI director of general insurance Nick Starling said: "With communities

DIY-loving Brits neglect roof maintenance

Internal Administrator — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:29:39 GMT

Britons are failing to pay proper attention to their roofs and are therefore risking the value of their property, new research has shown. According to a recent survey by consumer site Roofapedia.com, a huge 86 per cent of UK homeowners neglect to periodically inspect their roofs for damage, and more than 40 per cent a

Protect garden equipment this spring

Internal Administrator — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:29:37 GMT

The recent warmer temperatures have made many homeowners consider how to prepare their gardens for the summer. Getting ready for a season of garden parties and barbecues is always an exciting time, but it is important to make sure that outdoor items are adequately protected. Peter Harrison of Moneysupermarkey.com sai

Cockermouth flood defences to be discussed at council meeting

Internal Administrator — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:29:32 GMT

Flood defences for Cockermouth could be given the go-ahead later this month, with plans set to go in front of the council. The News and Star reported that the £4.4 million strategy will see new earth embankments being built while flood walls will be put in place. Properties which are situated along the Derwent

Try out inexpensive home design trends

Internal Administrator — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:54:12 GMT

The upcoming Bank Holiday weekends are a great time to do some decorating, and it does not need to break the bank. In fact, according to interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, finding a great design bargain can be more impressive than spending a lot of money. "It's not about the money you spend, it's

Plan ahead to maximise property space

Internal Administrator — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:54:09 GMT

Improving and maintaining one's existing home is often more cost-effective than simply moving to another property. According to Jason Orme, editor at Homebuilding and Renovating magazine, the best way to add value to any home is to make the best use of its existing space. "You need to maximise what is there

Britons love cleaning their house, study shows

Internal Administrator — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 09:57:49 GMT

More than a third of women have admitted that they secretly like cleaning, according to a new survey. In a report commissioned by disinfectant company Zoflora, respondents reported feeling "relaxed and satisfied" after blitzing their homes, and nearly half stated that they found the experience therapeutic.

Avoid sharing spare keys

Internal Administrator — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 10:47:32 GMT

Most Brits are not aware of the risks they take when giving out spare keys to their home, a new study has found. According to comparison site Confused.com, 72 per cent of homeowners are unaware that entrusting someone else with a key to their property could invalidate their home insurance policy . Almost seven in te

Think twice before committing to home improvements

Internal Administrator — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 10:47:26 GMT

Homeowners should think ahead before planning DIY in their home, experts have advised. According to Peter Dockar, head of mortgages at HSBC, the potential increase in property value as a result of home improvements has dipped over the last 12 months. "Homeowners should think carefully about the type and extent o

Do not shy away from DIY projects

Internal Administrator — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:52:06 GMT

Homeowners should not be afraid of tackling simple DIY challenges around the house, an expert believes. According to Jason Orme, editor at Homebuilding and Renovating, there are certain tasks that are accessible even to those who are new to home improvement. "Flooring and tiling – particularly things like

Take steps to prevent subsidence this summer

Internal Administrator — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:52:03 GMT

While the unseasonably warm weather is welcomed by the UK, the high temperatures could increase the risk of subsidence. Subsidence is when changing moisture levels cause the ground supporting a building to move downwards. It usually happens when the soil dries out or ground water levels drop and it can cause damage t

Tips for first-time tenants

Internal Administrator — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:55:13 GMT

The Association of Residential Letting and Agents (ARLA) has released a list of helpful hints and tips targeted at first-time renters. Ian Potter, operations manager at ARLA said: "Renting is often seen as a low-hassle, lower risk option when compared to purchasing a home, yet many people find the prospect of ren

Do careful research before downsizing

Internal Administrator — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:55:09 GMT

There are a number of factors for retired homeowners to take into account when deciding whether or not to move house. Residents often consider downsizing or moving into residential accommodation after they retire, but must choose carefully to find something specifically suited to their needs. James Cobb, founder of R

BPF calls for new flood insurance settlement

Internal Administrator — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:20:56 GMT

Homeowners could be left high and dry if the government and insurers cannot come to an agreement regarding flood cover. According to the British Property Federation, families and businesses could face uncertainty and prohibitively expensive insurance premiums in as little as four months if no settlement is reached. T

Notification of Financial Services Authority Alert

Internal Administrator — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 11:59:24 GMT

The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has advised UIA (Insurance) Ltd that they have issued an alert regarding an unauthorised firm identifying itself to UK individuals as: Unison Insurance Brokers 12 Orchard Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 2PU Email: UnisonBrokers@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.wix.com/unisonbrokers/un

Government scheme launched to help FTBs

Internal Administrator — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 17:42:06 GMT

A new government initiative is set to help potential homeowners take their first steps on the property ladder. The NewBuy scheme will allow buyers to purchase new build property using a deposit as low as five per cent of the asking price, on homes worth up to £500,000. It is estimated that it will enable as man

Set a budget for home extension plans

Internal Administrator — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 19:42:38 GMT

Homeowners who are planning to add an extension to their property should set a specific budget, according to experts. Tom Gresford, an architect at Architect-yourhome.com said that it is not necessary to have a particularly large budget, but it is essential to set some financial constraints. "Home extension cost

Homeowners urged to guard against bogus policemen

Internal Administrator — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:37:37 GMT

Elderly Essex residents have been told to be wary of criminals posing as police officers following a string of incidences in the area. Last week, two men dressed as constables forced their way into the home of an elderly woman  in Chigwell and stole her Rolex watch. Police sniffer dogs attempted to track the cri

Where are Britain's 'knowsiest' neighbours?

Internal Administrator — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 13:59:23 GMT

British homeowners are "obsessed" with house prices and property values, new research suggests. According to property website Zoopla.co.uk, an increasing number of Britons are not only tracking the market value of their own property but are also keeping watch on how much their neighbours' homes are worth

Reconfiguring property can create more living space

Internal Administrator — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 17:32:32 GMT

Making improvements to an existing property can be more economically sound than moving, according to one expert. Jonnie Erwin, property expert and TV presenter, said that people could end up spending thousands of pounds just for the cost of moving. "The cost of buying and selling property are high. You are looki

Homebuyers are "confused" by financial jargon

Internal Administrator — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 17:32:31 GMT

Many consumers looking to take their first step on the property ladder find it difficult to understand key property and mortgage terms. According to Nationwide Building Society, 40 per cent of people who have looked into buying a property say that the jargon confuses them. It is particularly true among first time buy

Plant rhubarb to 'prevent break-ins'

Internal Administrator — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 17:32:30 GMT

The Metropolitan Police have suggested a rather unusual way to improve home security. London's force has suggested that planting rhubarb in the front garden can deter thieves from trying to enter the home. Rhubarb is just one of a number of plants that have made it on to a list of "abrasive foliage" whi

Make home improvements more affordable

Internal Administrator — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 17:32:29 GMT

Homeowners who wish to re-decorate or re-design their property can do so without breaking the bank. Often consumers associate home improvements with high costs but this does not have to be the case. Although good interior design does take a certain amount of time and money, there are things that residents can do to c

Operation Twist launched to tackle Huntingdonshire crimes

Internal Administrator — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 17:32:25 GMT

Police have launched an operation to crack down on criminals in Huntingdonshire and South Cambs following a recent string of burglaries. More than 200 houses have been broken into in these rural areas over the past four months alone. Operation Twist, as it is called, will focus on increasing patrols within the villag

Homeowners could save by making their home green

Application Administrator — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 10:35:33 GMT

Property owners could help to cut their monthly energy costs by making their home more environmentally-friendly. Oliver Heath, an eco design consultant at Oliverheath.com, said that the kitchen is one area of the home which uses a lot of resources, such as gas, water and electricity, and this is one of the first rooms

Property extension dreams could be ruined through poor planning

Internal Administrator — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 21:28:20 GMT

Property investors could find that their extension dreams are ruined if they do not plan the project fully, according to an expert. Amir Hussain, managing director of Yeme.co.uk, said that finding a professional to carry out this type of work can be quite hard as they involve a lot of work for a relatively low fee. M

Government urged to offer more help to first-time buyers

Internal Administrator — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 21:28:19 GMT

The government could do more to help first-time buyers get on the property ladder, according to an industry expert. Peter Bolton King, chief executive at the National Federation of Property Professionals, said that the FirstBuy and mortgage indemnity guarantee schemes have had a "limited" impact. He went on

Brits keeping �5.6bn inside their property

Internal Administrator — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 21:28:14 GMT

Brits are choosing to keep large amounts of cash in their home, putting them at risk of a large financial loss if they are victim of a break-in or fire. Research from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) revealed that over £5.6 billion is being tucked away in sock drawers and the loft up and down th

House purchase loans in Northern Ireland rise at end of 2011

Internal Administrator — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 21:28:18 GMT

The number of house purchase loans taken out in the last three months of 2011 rose in Northern Ireland, making it the only area of the UK to see an increase. Research from the Council of Mortgage Lenders found that there were around 2,500 of these agreements signed, totalling a value of up to £240 million. This

How to make your home insurance premiums more affordable

Internal Administrator — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 16:28:04 GMT

There are a number of steps that consumers can take to make sure that their home and belongings are protected without breaking the bank. However, residents should remember that increasing the voluntary excess level on their home insurance policy in order to reduce the cost of the premium itself may end up costing mo

Students find 'ham burglar' in kitchen

Internal Administrator — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 10:57:44 GMT

A 'burglar' who stole turkey ham from his victim's kitchen in Bangor bit off more than he could chew. Twenty-year-old Oliver Dowsett was tackled by the four occupants of a university flat after he raided their fridge and stole some rolling tobacco from their lounge. One of the residents, a female student,