Wales
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in Advice, Basics, Design, Extension/Renovation Advice, Free Content, Pre design, Uncategorized, Wales
Planning exemptions in Wales
What you can build without planning permission in Wales In this article, we cover: If you’re thinking of making changes to your home in Wales — like building an extension, converting your loft or installing solar panels — you may not need planning permission. Many minor improvements and additions are allowed under permitted development rights […] More
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in Advice, Basics, Building control: completion certificate (NI only), Direct labour tasks, England, Free Content, Getting started on site, New Build, Scotland, Signing off, Wales
Self-build VAT guide
Self-builders building new in the UK are exempt from paying Value Added Tax. VAT for self-builders Before I go into the details, a few words of caution. Be sure to keep on the side of the law throughout. Never pay cash without proper receipts for VAT made out to you. Ideally, never pay cash […] More
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in Advice, Budget & Financing, Building methods, Cost Series, Energy Efficiency, Airtightness & The Environment, England, Scotland, Wales
What’s the best building method?
With so many building methods available, which is the best today? Architect Micah Jones gives his answer. In this article we cover: I built my home using Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), so mass timber is my top choice. However, every construction method has its role. For me, design takes priority, and then we select the […] More
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How do I register my new self-build address?
Registering an address is essential for your self-build — from getting utilities connected to meeting legal requirements. Here’s how to apply and what to expect. In this article we cover: Registering an address for your self-build might seem way down on your project’s ever expanding to do list, but in actual fact, you should get […] More
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in Advice, Budget & Financing, Cost Series, England, Free Content, Other key structural decisions, Scotland, Wales
Cost of upper storey floors
How much your upper storey structural floors will cost, from the various types of joists to concrete options. In this article we cover: The cost of structural floors is influenced by several factors, including material choice, sound insulation, thermal insulation, fire resistance, structural stability and service integration. It is crucial to have a qualified engineer […] More
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in Advice, Choosing wall and floor finishes, England, Foundations, subfloors and screeds: Watchpoints, Free Content, Scotland, Wales
How much does polished concrete cost in the UK?
Polished concrete can add a sleek, modern touch to any space, but it comes with a hefty price tag. In this article, we break down the costs involved. In this article we cover: No two self-builds are exactly alike. Each home has its own unique design, site conditions, and construction challenges. The cost of polished […] More
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in Advice, England, Extension/Renovation Advice, Free Content, Insulation and airtightness: Watchpoints, On site, Scotland, Wales
Guide to external wall insulation in the UK
Your guide to planning for, and installing external wall insulation for homes in the UK. In this article we cover: External Wall Insulation (EWI), also known as ETICS (External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems) is a method of insulating the outside walls of either a new or existing house and involves directly applying insulation panels to […] More
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in Advice, Budget & Financing, Energy Efficiency, Airtightness & The Environment, Extension/Renovation Advice, Free Content, Heating systems, Renewables & Sustainability, Wales
Grants in Wales
A list of grants, financial supports and initiatives available to help with your self-build or home improvement project in Wales. In this article we cover: While there aren’t many direct “grants” specifically for self-builders, there are various schemes and funding opportunities that can help reduce costs. Below is a list of potential funding sources for […] More