Property & Home with Martin Roberts: Autumn/Winter 2023

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Welcome

WELCOME

to Property & Home with Martin Roberts

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IMAGES: Martin Roberts

i, it’s Martin Roberts - him off the telly! - welcoming you to the latest issue of Property & Home, your unmissable guide to buying, renovating, improving and selling property.

Well, we never promised you that the property market would be a bed of roses, and the ups and downs of the economy have shown that nothing can be taken for granted. Whether you are struggling to get a foot on the property ladder, to pay a mortgage, to cope with increased expenses as a landlord, or make pension plans in an uncertain financial landscape, nothing is being made easy for property planners!

But in my work on Homes Under the Hammer, a programme I have been privileged to be associated with for 20 years now, I still see opportunities everywhere – and I’ve taken on some of the most exciting projects of my career in the last twelve months.

So, whether you need mortgage advice, some light shed on the confusing energy market, or just inspiration for redecorating and refurbishing your existing home, you’ll find something to help in this info-filled issue of Property & Home with Martin Roberts!

Remember that there are both shortterm and long-term gains to be made by getting involved in the property market I still love after all these years, and read my end column for some thoughts about how we can all contribute to society by getting into property!

Cheers, Martin

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CONTENTS

Contents 10

43 25 Max Headroom How boarding a loft, while cheaper than a full conversion, could be one of the best moves you can make

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10 Interview Martin Roberts tells Chris Jenkins about his latest projects and how he thinks changes to the law and the property market could affect the plans of investors

28 The Taxman Cometh Phillip Gambrill explains how the evercunning taxman might have his eye on your legal arrangements for avoiding tax bills

PROPERTY 16 Property Trends All the news about new products, services and issues affecting the property market

30 Commercial Considerations Charles Knapper looks at the complicated world of commercial leases, and points out some traps for the unwary

22 Saving With the Sun With energy bills skyrocketing, could solar panels hold out the promise of cheap, flexible energy supplies?

35 Comfort in Style Hot in the summer, cold in the winter? If this describes your conservatory, there are ways and means to make it much more liveable

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40 Insulate to Innovate We’re constantly being told that we need to save energy, but this is difficult if your property isn’t well insulated. Here’s how to go about keeping the heat in and the draughts out 43 The Hands-Off Manager It can seem that the work of a landlord is never done – but what if you could get someone to take over all those onerous tasks of maintenance, certification and administration for you?

45 Volts From the Sun Heating and lighting your home using sun power has never been more practical – here’s a quick guide to solar panel technology

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46 Cover Story What do you do when your water heater dies in the middle of winter? If you have specialist cover, you can just pick up the phone for a quick fix

66 Bricks, Mortar and Money Property investment can be a confusing market, with economic and legal changes confounding attempts to plan ahead. Here are some tips on how to win the game

72 Just the Essentials When you get a phone call from a tenant in the middle of the night, it’s never good news. Here are some thoughts about how to place essential services in other hands

49 The Doors of Perception The first impression of your property is often given by its front door – here’s why a smart replacement can make all the difference to the appeal of your property

70 Managing Property Disputes Holding a property portfolio can be a challenging situation, with financial and legal complications coming at you from all sides.

Here are some essential tips to help cope

75 Protecting Your Property Does your domestic insurance cover you for building renovation work? Almost certainly not – here’s why you need a specialist to make sure your cover is good

51 Conserving the Modern Adding a conservatory to your home is one of the best ways to increase your space and improve your environment, so which style should you go for?

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54 Choosing the Right Conveyancer Conveyancing is a mystic art practiced by a select few – this is why you should let the professionals handle this complicated aspect of property sales 58 The Beauty of Brick Brick is a traditional building material, but still has a lot to offer compared to more modern options. Here’s why the classics can often be the best for the job 62 Renovate it Yourself A DIY renovation job may seem beyond you, but in fact with right knowledge and tools, there are plenty of valuable jobs you can do around your property

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40 IMAGES: Martin Roberts; Dreamstime

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CONTENTS

HOME 78 Home Trends All the news about new products, services and issues affecting the home and interiors markets

91 Modern Classics Sash windows are as popular as they ever were, but do present some challenges in sustainability and maintenance – here’s how to keep them in top shape

102 Father Brown’s Classic Crib Father Brown writer GK Chesterton’s former home is up for sale, if you have £5.25m to spare. We do some detective work in this very special property

80 The Great Boiler Fiasco How does the government’s new boiler upgrade scheme look like affecting the heating industry? Experts have their doubts as to whether things are working out

94 Heating the Future The air source heat pump could be the coming thing in heating technology. How do they work, how much do they cost, and will they suit your property?

105 Hard (Water) Times Hard water is a regional problem, and can lead to both health and home maintenance issues. We find out how to detect it and deal with it

85 Moving With Confidence When you are moving house, the last thing you want is to find that your delicate job is being done by cowboys. Here’s a guide to finding a reliable mover

98 Lifting You Higher If getting upstairs is becoming more difficult, a stairlift may help – or would you be better off with a homelift? Find out about the many uplifting options

106 Cleaner Breathing Indoor air quality can be just as much of a health hazard as outdoor pollution. We look at the problems, the solutions, and the benefits to your home

87 Save Your Furniture!

Throwing out old furniture is an expense and an eco-crime; so how can you go about refurbishing it in such a way that it’s better than new?

101 Keeping Wood Good Maintaining wooden structures is often a matter of finding the right products, but it also helps if you understand what wood needs to stay in fine shape

113 Why Radon Matters Radon is an invisible menace, but recent news shows that it’s not one to ignore. We explain the problem and hear from the experts about the solutions

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GARDEN 116 Garden Trends All the news about new products, services and issues affecting the garden market

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118 Garden to Sell Want to add value to your home? The quickest, easiest way might be to sort out the garden. We pass on some top tips for a quick outdoor fix

PUBLISHER & CEO Kevin Harrington EDITOR Chris Jenkins

120 Keep it Hot in the Garden With winter coming, the best way to make sure you can continue to enjoy outdoor leisure spaces is to add some heating technology. We check out the options

SUB EDITOR Emmanuel Berhanu CONTRIBUTORS Steve Holland Thomas J Roberts Margo Lane

122 Winter is Coming As the cold weather approaches, it’s important to prepare your garden for winter if you want it to bloom again next year. We run down the most important tasks 127 Timber Tales Outdoor timber structures such as fences, decking and sheds need careful care and maintenance to ensure long life. Where do you start to keep timber tasty?

DESIGN Joanna Harrington PRODUCTION Ray Walsh ADMINISTRATOR Nida Zamir

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ENDPIECE 128 Building Hope Martin’s plan to renovate a community pub advances, but like all property projects it’s full of surprise – he fills us in on the latest developments

PUBLISHED BY COPYRIGHT © 2023, CELEBRITY ANGELS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED COVER IMAGE Martin Roberts

Property & Home with Martin Roberts Celebrity Angels 143 Caledonian Road London N1 0SL Tel: 020 7871 1000 For sales enquiries call: 020 7871 1000

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All material in Property & Home with Martin Roberts is wholly copyright and reproduction without the written permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden.

Products and services included in this publication do not imply endorsement by Martin Roberts.

IMAGES: Martin Roberts; Dreamstime; Bovingdons

The views expressed in this publication are entirely those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of Celebrity Angels. The information in this publication is carefully researched and produced in good faith, however, neither the Publisher nor the Editors accept responsibility for any errors. The Celebrity Angels Series is published in the UK under licence by Damson Media Limited. Damson Media Limited is registered in England and Wales under registration no. 07869300.

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INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW

Hard Work and Enthusiasm

Martin Roberts, celebrity guest editor of Property & Home, talks to Chris Jenkins about the state of the rental market, the best ways to renovate your property, and the importance of maintenance – both property and personal!

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rom Homes Under the Hammer to I’m A Celebrity – Get Me Out of Here!, Martin Roberts is a familiar presence on TV, radio and online, with his property advice heeded by millions. So where does he think the market is going, and what is the best way to make it pay? Chris Jenkins asks the questions….

HAS THE BOTTOM FALLEN OUT OF THE BUY TO RENT MARKET? There’s no denying, there’s a perfect storm facing buy-to-let investors at the moment.

A nasty combination of soaring energy prices, rising costs of materials and labour, and an unprecedented hike in interest rates over a startling short amount of time, has put a strain on even the most conservative of cash flow forecasts.

Not surprisingly, this has caused many

people to contemplate their position, and in some cases, to leave the market. It feels like private residential landlords are being left to fend for themselves, without any support from the government - in fact, the opposite. And yet these individuals are providing vital housing stock at a time when it’s scarcer than ever before.

I’m working with the NRLA (National Residential Landlords Association) to try to get the sector the recognition it deserves, but in the meantime, it’s more important than ever to keep a tight rein on your property portfolio and make sure there are no unnecessary expenses and that your property machine is as fine-tuned as it can be. Minimise your mortgage costs, improve your energy efficiency and strike deals on any repairs, improvements and renovations you need to undertake. »

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WHAT IS THE BEST CURRENT INVESTMENT IN PROPERTY? WHAT ABOUT ‘RENT TO RENT’ – INVESTING IN RENTAL MANAGEMENT COMPANIES? One sector of the market that seems to be doing very well is holiday home rental – or more generically, short-term lets and serviced accommodation. This can be individual properties that are rented out on a weekly, nightly or by-nightly basis, or serviced flats that are operated more like a conventional hotel room.

Don’t underestimate the amount of effort it takes to operate a short-term lettings business – certainly when it comes to holiday lets through companies like Airbnb and Booking.com. Whereas long-term rent tenants will allow days for problems to be resolved, holiday makers will expect the same issues to be fixed in a matter of hours.

The financial upside can be very good with double digit yields to be expected, but wear and tear will increase, as will marketing and promotional costs.

WHERE DO YOU LOOK FOR THE BEST MORTGAGE NOW? As ever, the best people to source the most competitive mortgage deal for you will be an independent ‘whole of market’ Mortgage Broker. They will have

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their fingertips on the rapidly changing pulse of the mortgage market. They will also be aware of particular mortgage providers who cater for specific needs and circumstances, and it most definitely is not a ‘one size fits all’ scenario.

Always be honest about your personal circumstances however bad you think they are, because it is almost certain that anything you fail to disclose will be found out at a later date, and when it’s discovered it will put you and your broker very much on the back foot.

WHAT ARE THE PRO AND CONS OF SOLAR PANELS? Minimizing your energy usage has never been more important – from both a personal finances point of view, but also the wider issue of each doing our bit to save the planet. The image of solar panels perhaps became tainted by the influx of cowboy operators when they first came out, when people unwittingly signed away the legal rights to their own roofs for arguable returns.

However, solar panels remain one of the most effective ways to supplement or replace your property’s electrical energy needs, and there have been developments in technology which dramatically increase their viability. Cost-effective, battery backup units solve the conundrum whereby

the time when you are most likely to have high energy demands - in the evenings and the winter months - are the times when solar power is at its least efficient.

Having an effective way to store energy harvested when the sun is at its strongest massively increases the all-round viability of solar power. The usual rules apply though; make sure you engage the services of a respected and accredited supplier; you will probably need a survey to ensure your existing roof structure is capable of taking the extra weight of solar panels; shop around for the best deal and make sure you read the small print of any contract to ensure you’re not signing away any ownership rights that might cause problems in the future.

WHEN WILL GAS BOILERS BE PHASED OUT AND WHAT WILL REPLACE THEM? There was a commitment by the government to phase out the use of gas boilers on all newbuild properties by as early as 2025. They will be replaced by futuristic new technologies, like those offered by Project Curv (www.projectcurv. co.uk) - who have managed to integrate an air source heat pump into a traditional sized hot water cylinder. No date has been set for the forced replacement of existing gas boilers and this would seem like a

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IMAGES: Dreamstime

fairly unpopular, Draconian and hard to administer possibility in any event. It’s more likely that the supply of new gas boilers will be gradually phased out, forcing people to utilise alternative technologies as and when their existing gas boilers fail.

In the meantime, if you have a very old gas boiler, it is worth considering replacing it with a modern version, as gas boiler technology and efficiency has been enhanced massively in recent years. So, potential money savings will be considerable, even more so with the inflated energy prices we are currently experiencing.

DOES A LOFT CONVERSION GIVE A BETTER RETURN ON INVESTMENT THAN A GROUND FLOOR EXTENSION? Choosing the best extension is based on a number of criteria that will be personal to you. Is this a lifestyle or investment decision? Are you creating a better living environment to suit your changing requirements or are you hoping just to add value to your property with a view to selling it in the short to medium term?

How much disruption are you able to cope with? It could be that some extensions or enhancements can be undertaken relatively discreetly while you are still living in the property. Structurally, what is possible? Not all roof spaces are suitable for a loft conversion. The construction may prohibit turning it into a habitable space, so an architect, builder and surveyors expertise would need to be sought.

Planning permission for some extensions will be allowed under what’s known as ‘Permitted Development’ - where you can do the work without planning permission. You will however need building regulations approval.

Loft conversions may be more controversial if they alter the roofline of a street or if you are in a listed building or conservation area.

A ground floor extension may provide the opportunity to hugely enhance the properties layout, creating open plan living or workspace. However, a loft conversion may enable you to create a separate additional ensuite bedroom or statement living area. Costs of construction are likely to be slightly higher for a loft conversion but

again this will vary depending on individual complexities and circumstances.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS FOR WINTER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE IN THE HOME AND GARDEN? Winter is upon us again and annoyingly it’s time to redo all those things you probably did this time last year, to make sure your property is best placed to survive all that the winter months can throw at it.

Start by checking that all your gutters, downpipes and drains are working as they should be. Autumn leaves wreak havoc, causing blockages that will increase the potential for damp and in the case of drains, if left, cause serious issues such as subsidence. Never has the expression ‘A stitch in time saves nine’ been more appropriate. Get professional help to clean high-up gutters, or be extremely careful using ladders.

Check that your exterior paint work is in good condition. Ideally go for a full pukka repaint job, if not even a hastily applied stopgap coat of paint (until it can be done properly in the spring) is better than nothing. »

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Winter gardens are invariably a bit drab, so consider planting winter flowering bulbs and shrubs. Cut everything else back in line with any variety specific recommendations. Jet wash patios and decking to remove algae and the slip hazard it creates. Finally, check the condition of all trees in close proximity to your property and get tree

surgeons in to remove any branches or whole trees that look very like they might not survive winter storms.

WHAT ARE YOUR MOST AND LEAST FAVOURITE GARDEN JOBS? I love gardening in general. It’s a chance to take your mind off the stresses and strains of the world and get back to

nature. Clearly weeding and getting rid of the spoils from enthusiastic hedge trimming are low down the enjoyment list, but even then, the satisfaction of seeing the improvements make it worthwhile. I love planting hanging baskets and window boxes and these can be tailored to provide interest and colour throughout the year.

The hyacinth bulbs are going in the pots ready for Spring next year as we speak!

HOW ARE YOU FACING UP TO BEING IN YOUR 60S? 60, who’s 60? Not me, I’m 21 still - or so I feel inside! Now, a quick glance at the exterior condition would suggest some wear and tear. The plumbing is certainly in need of attention and there are some structural issues. Years of enthusiastic use are finally taking their toll and a full refurbishment wouldn’t go amiss. But I’d say this 1960s construction is still wearing well, is relatively fit for purpose and has a good few years left in it yet! ■ 14

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IMAGES: Martin Roberts

HOW IS YOUR WELSH PUB RENOVATION GOING? I always knew renovating an abandoned rundown pub would be a huge challenge, but as ever with these things, the true level of complete chaos, complications and expense only becomes apparent as the project starts to unfold and layers upon layers of inadequate maintenance and questionable improvements over the years become apparent.

But it’s all part of the journey, and that journey has taken a wonderful, unexpected twist that you can read more about in my end column in this issue but basically I’m now giving disengaged 15- to 17-year-olds the chance to get construction industry qualifications, while helping me renovate this vital community facility.

But despite their incredible hard work and enthusiasm, the complications of the project have multiplied and my own always optimistic hopes of serving my first pint by Christmas are looking increasingly unachievable - so Easter drinks all round then, or perhaps even a summer celebratory Pimms? Watch this space!

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Property Trends

From home improvements to the right insurance, the latest products and services in the property sector

The UK housebuilding sector has experienced a significant setback due to declining planning approvals, with activity falling to its lowest level in over a decade according to government data.

Just 898 major residential projects were approved between April and June in 2023, down 11 percent on the same period in the previous year, and marking the first time the quarterly figure has dropped below 1,000 since 2012.

Clive Holland, broadcaster on Fix Radio, suggests that the planning crisis has been further exacerbated by policy uncertainty created by failed attempts at planning reforms, such as the government’s Biodiversity Net Gain policy that comes into effect in November. Local authorities say that they don’t have the in-house expertise necessary to assess applicants’ proposals.

A report by the National Planning Barometer concluded that there was a “crisis of resource that sees local authority planning departments unable to deliver the service on which the system relies”.

RESOURCES Councillors also thought that slow progress by developers was a reason for not enough houses being built, yet it’s been suggested

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that most builders could ill afford to move slowly with their sites, and delays could often be attributed to poorly resourced planning departments. Whether it be battling against record material and labour prices, an historically small workforce, regulations that stifle the ability for builders to work, or being in the grips of a mental health crisis, the construction industry faces significant obstacles.

Clive Holland says: “The government target of 300,000 houses to be built per year, even before COVID was extremely unrealistic for a couple of reasons. After Brexit, a lot of our support teams went back to their own countries, we didn’t have enough people in our industry, we’re already short of trades people as it is. It was always going to be a tricky one, to try and get anywhere near that demand of 300,000 houses built.

“Now you’re in a situation where a lot of house builders have mothballed a lot of their sites because they can’t sell them due to rising interest rates. Lots of sites generally around the country would have been flooded with people buying off plan without even looking at the house.”

The latest Construction Skills Network report cites that the UK needs an extra 225,000 workers by 2027 to keep up with construction demand, the equivalent of 45,000 per year.

IMAGES: Dreamstime, Purestructures.co.uk

SKILLS SHORTAGE HINDERING BUILDING

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PROPERTY

MUTANTS OF LONDON In London council ordered a developer to demolish two blocks of flats in Woolwich after it made 26 changes to its approved plans without the authority’s permission. Greenwich Council, which described the development as “mutant”, said that Comer Homes Group’s Mast Quay Phase II built-to-rent scheme was “unlawful because it is so substantially different” to the one given planning permission in 2012.

Councillor Aidan Smith, the council’s cabinet member for regeneration, described the blocks as a “mutant development”, saying “We cannot let what has been delivered at Mast Quay Phase II go unchallenged”.

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Some tenants had already moved into the Thames-side development, paying £2,000 per month rent.

Among the deviations highlighted by the council was the failure to provide a roof garden for residents and the public along with children’s play areas. There are also “nonaccessible ‘accessible’ apartments” with steps to the balconies, meaning wheelchair users cannot use the outdoor space. The council said there has been a year-long investigation after the breaches came to light following completion of the development in 2022.

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YORKSHIRE WORST FOR EPC RATINGS Almost two thirds of homes in Yorkshire and the Humber have an EPC rating of D-G according to a survey by JF Heating.

With 64 percent of all homes being between D-G on their EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating, Yorkshire and the Humber has the least energy-efficient homes in the country, while London has the best average EPC rating per home, with just under half (47 percent) of all residential properties in the capital having a rating between C-A. The average cost to bring a home from an energy efficiency rating of G up to a C-A would be around £31,000, depending on the size of the property.

According to Government data, 2022’s winter energy bills averaged 96 percent higher than the previous year. As such, it

has never been more expensive to heat a home, regardless of whether the property uses gas or electric heating methods. With the government postponing some of the ‘green initiatives’ which would have forced landlords to upgrade the EPC of their homes, some residents will continue to pay the price of heating a home that does not contain the warmth effectively.

JF Heating’s analysis used the Government’s home EPC database, taking the quantity of homes per region and their listed EPC ratings. Yorkshire and The Humber has 2,336,853 households with 64 rated D-G, while just over a third (36 pecent) of the homes are EPC rated A-C. London has 3,796,720 households with 53 percent at an EPC rating of D-G, but by far the highest quantity of homes with an EPC rating of A-C, at 47 percent.

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Products are made from high quality flour, spices and herbs and are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. chadhaorientalfoods.co.uk/ brands/indomie

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Inspired Conservatories Direct believes as a family run business that we can provide you with the best possible service at the lowest possible prices for your DIY Conservatory selection. We will work with you to create the Conservatory you desire and deliver all the components direct to your door.

Renovation Plan, experts in renovation and self-build insurance for all projects. They assist homeowners, property developers, and brokers in securing the right coverage. Their dedicated team prioritizes customer needs, offering tailored insurance solutions with two decades of experience and flexible options.

Whether it’s a first-time renovator or an experienced developer, they provide support throughout the project, extending policies if needed. Renovation Plan has got you covered, every step of the way.

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PROPERTY

BEDBUGS ON THE RAMPAGE After reports that Paris has become overrun by bedbugs, predictions that the little terrors might cross the Channel seem to be coming true. In October, pest control firms in London reported that they had been “inundated” with calls about the bloodsucking insects, and in Bedfordshire, Luton Borough Council has also said that it is receiving an “alarming number” of calls about bedbugs. There are also reports of high levels of cases in Hertfordshire.

Natalie Bungay, technical manager at the British Pest Control Association, said: “It’s worth noting that bedbugs are already here in the UK and have been for quite some time.

“If you are unlucky enough to spot signs of a bedbug infestation in your home, we strongly recommend you act immediately and contact a professional pest control company.

“Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to treat and DIY treatments often result in failure.”

LANDLORDS SPENDING MORE ON MORTGAGES Landlords are spending 40% more on mortgage interest yearon-year according to research by estate agent Hamptons. In August 2023, mortgaged investors handed over an average of 37% of their rental income in mortgage costs, up from 28% the same month a year ago.

Aneisha Beveridge, head of research at Hamptons, said: “With mortgage interest often landlords’ largest cost, the pace at which rates have risen has squeezed investors. Even if there are no further rate hikes by the Bank of England, we could see the amount of mortgage interest paid by landlords exceed £20bn over the next two years.

“This has the potential to eat up just over half the amount mortgaged landlords receive in rent. For some investors, this will be unaffordable, and they will likely bow out, keeping upward pressure on rents.”

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Energy Efficient

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START YOUR JOURNEY TOWARDS ENERGY INDEPENDENCE Did you know that homes in the UK consume more power than any other country?

Solar panels are a direct way to reduce your ongoing energy bills as they absorb energy from daylight and convert it into energy. Today, Project Solar is recognised as the leading installer of Solar Panels in the UK, with over 45,000 installations to date.

You’ll be generating some of your own energy at home, without relying solely on the national grid for the entirety of your electricity usage. What’s better? Any excess you produce (that you don’t use or store within a battery system) you can even sell back!

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Excellent Rated 4.4 / 5 based on 3,992 reviews on

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Great solar experience

Sunshine Despite the Showers!

Great service from start to finish.

Clear, punctual and delivered on all they promised.

The ‘sales promoter’ was extremely knowledgeable and guided us through the benefits of the system without pressure.

The installers were superb. Very tidy and, again, very informative and patient. A credit to the company.

We have told family and neighbours about the benefits of the product.

Would recommend project solar to anyone wanting the system

Aziz Suleman, 7 Sept 2023

Project Solar I was very satisfied with the service provided by Project Solar from sales to installation Upto now I’m also very happy with the service provided

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From the sales guy coming round to having the system installed has all been one easy process. In the short days that we have had the system fitted we have not use power from the grid at all. Just waiting on certificates now to start enjoying the extra benefits from going solar

Call us to find out how much you could save

0800 112 3110

03/10/2023 10:49

PROPERTY

Saving With the Sun

Solar panels are a great energy-saving option for many homes – but do the benefits outweigh the costs? We set the story straight

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t seems too good to be true, doesn’t it?

Instead of paying expensive electricity or gas bills, you get all your energy for free. In fact you might even make money, selling energy back to the National Grid. So why don’t we all go for solar panels right now?

Simon Peat, CEO of Project Solar UK says, “As the winter draws in people will increase the usage of domestic appliances. Installing solar panels is a smart way to generate energy by harnessing the natural resource of the sun – not just in summer but throughout the year. Anyone looking for more costeffective ways to help keep up with their home’s increased energy demand in the winter months should find out more about this clean, green energy source that does

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not harm the environment. As gas and electricity bills can be so unpredictable, many property owners are considering solar energy with its benefits of generating energy and options around selling back to the grid. The easy installation of solar panels is another benefit we get positive feedback on from our many propertyowning customers.”

Solar, or ‘photovoltaic’ panels are fitted to the roof of your home, and convert light energy into electricity. This is stored in a battery and powers your home lighting and heating. Any excess can be sold back to the National Grid, so you might even make a profit – once you have taken into account the cost of installing the panels in the first place.

It’s worth bearing in mind that there

are two types of solar energy system, solar panels, which absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity, and solar thermal systems which transform the sun’s energy into heat for household water.

SOLAR PROS AND CONS Let’s look at costs. A typical PVA (photovoltaic array) will cost you about £8,000 to install. It will supply power during the day, but not at night, so you will still need to be connected to the National Grid. You may save about £600 a year on your energy bills, so it might take you around 13 years to recover your installation cost – but you may qualify for financial help installing panels under the government’s ECO4 scheme. Of course, solar panels function most eff iciently in

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ECO-4 The government’s ECO-4 scheme can pay for up to 100 percent of the cost of solar panels, but only for energy-inefficient households on certain benefits such as Income Support and Universal Credit.

LA Flex (Local Authority Flexible Eligibility) is an extension of the ECO4 scheme under which local authorities can determine eligibility criteria for energy efficiency measures. Find out more at ukenergysupport.co.uk/eco4grant-application-centre.

strong sunlight, but they do still function in overcast weather or rain, though at a reduced capacity. You can also add further panels at a later date to increase your capacity.

Costs for solar panels are going down, and if you also install a storage battery, you will be able to draw on this for power at night, and if you have any excess, to

sell this back to the National Grid under the Smart Export Guarantee scheme. But a storage battery can cost anything from £4,000-£8,000 depending on capacity, so this adds to your startup costs. But as with the panels, you can start small and add higher capacity with some modular systems.

INSTALLATION Not all roof types are suitable for solar panels – ideally your roof will be free of shade and facing southwards at a 30-45 degree angle, though east- and west-facing solar panels can work too. If your roof isn’t ideal, you might try more expensive high-efficiency panels.

Maintenance of solar panels is slight – they may require the occasional cleaning, but they have no moving parts and are of course silent in operation, unlike other power sources such as ground heat pumps. In normal operation solar panels might last from 25-40 years, so they should certainly be functional long enough to make their money back. ■

Martin’s Tips Investing in energy saving makes sense for everyone, whether ensuring a home gains value if you’re going to sell it to enhancing a ‘forever home’ so it’s perfect for you and your family. It’s not just about saving money or adding value, but also recognising that we can all do our bit to help the planet and future generations by reducing our energy consumption to reach the world’s collective net-zero goals and to ensure lower carbon emissions become a reality, not a dream.

Solar panels are another affordable long-term investment in your home and the planet, with the added attraction of being able to sell back your excess to the grid.

IMAGES: Dreamstime

Investing in energy saving has multiple rewards, including reducing bills, making your home more comfortable and greater returns in the future, as selling could mean a better price due to a higher EPC rating.

For many, the most attractive investment is in the planet, benefiting not just themselves, but generations yet to come.

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Excellent

Arrange a free quote today from the UK’s No 1 Loft boarding installation company.

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PROPERTY

Max Headroom A loft conversion is one of the most popular and economical ways to enhance the value of your home. So what’s involved?

IMAGES: Dreamstime

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f you own your property and you have an underused loft space, you are missing out on the opportunity to enhance your living space in a way which can be much more economical than, say, building an extension.

If your loft is full of nothing but cobwebs, rafters and old pictures of your grandfather, even a basic conversion, adding a solid floor, roof insulation and an access ladder can give you tons of safe storage space which will free up other areas of the house. But the real potential of a loft conversion lies in turning it into living space, often an additional bedroom, office or playroom. This involves considerably more effort and expense, since the planning regulations for living space are more demanding, but it will certainly add to the value and utility of your home.

INSULATION The essential element of a basic loft conversion is adding flooring. While this

can be done by placing boards on existing joists, this misses the opportunity to provide a safer and more energy efficient solution. A modern solution is to add a layer of insulation, then raised loft flooring boards. This has the benefit of saving you heat energy, while allowing the insulation to work at its most efficient by not squashing it under boards.

Insulation is best laid in two layers, between the existing joists, then across the joists. The insulation of choice uses ECOSE technology, a bio-based binder which makes the material more comfortable to handle. It’s noncombustable, made from natural, renewable raw materials and is 70 percent less energy intensive to manufacture than traditional materials. Fitting this sort of insulation in your loft could save you about £250 a year on your energy bills.

It’s also important that your loft access hatch be airtight and meet industry standards. You can fit a loft hatch with

a simple board, hinges, and push-push closing catch, but for safe and efficient access, an airtight, insulated access hatch made to NHBC (National House Building Council) standards with a locking catch will reduce airflow and the possibility of damp.

ACCESS If you are using your loft conversion purely for storage, you can fit a hide-way ladder for access. You have the choice of many types and materials. The basic type might be a sliding aluminium design in two or three sections; this is mounted on a springloaded top hinge inside the access hatch, so once collapsed, it is swung up into the loft . The problem with these designs is that they can require clearance space inside the loft .

Some wooden or metal ladder types are attached to the access hatch and will fold into the space above it, so they take up no additional space in the loft , while a third type telescopes or concertinas »

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to save space. Which type you choose depends on what clearance space you have inside the loft , the size of the access hatch, and how much load you need the ladder to bear. Accessories for loft access ladders can include handrails, and inside the loft you might want to fit rails around the hatch or grab-handles at strategic points. Don’t forget you’ll also need a pole to operate the hatch!

Make sure when choosing a loft

ladder that it is long enough to sit at a comfortable angle for climbing. European loft ladder standards cover aspects such as minimum weight capacity, angle of climb (61 degrees) distance between steps, height of the bottom step and so on.

ROOFS There’s not much point in insulating the floor of the loft unless you also insulate the roof, where a great deal of heat can be

lost. There are many ways to do this – with boards, breathable lining, thermal foil or spray polyurethane foam (SPF). You should take advice before opting for spray foam, because though it has advantages such as good sound insulation, it’s not suitable for all types of property.

You may also want to add utilities such as lighting and mains power to your loft conversion. If you plan to live in it, using it as a bedroom or office, much more stringent planning requirements come into effect.

Though you can add some space to your loft by adding skylights and fixed stairs, a full loft conversion often means rebuilding the roof of the property to give more headroom. In a so-called hip-to-gable conversion, a sloping roof is replaced with a vertical one.

In another design, the mansard roof extension, the sides of the roof are lifted to create a new pitched roof, and most ambitiously, a roof lift conversion will effectively add a new floor to your home, though understandably this is the most expensive of the options – but it can add considerably to the value of your home. ■

Converting the loft of a house is considered to be permitted development (not requiring planning permission) so long as the house: ♦ Is not a building containing one or more flats, or a flat contained within such a building ♦ Has not already had additional storeys added to it under permitted development rights ♦ Was not changed to be used as a house (from a previous nonresidential use) under permitted development rights ♦ Was not built as a ‘New Dwellinghouse’ under permitted development rights ♦ Is not on Article 2(3) designated land Find out more at www.planningportal.co.uk

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IMAGES: Dreamstime

PLANNING PERMISSION

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The Taxman Cometh Death and taxes are a couple of certainties in life – well, the one is, but how about the second?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Philip Gambrill FCCA is senior partner at PG Lemon LLP Chartered Certified Accountants in London and Kent. The practice advises many landlords on all aspects of property related tax. See www.pglemon.co.uk, call 020 7247 1922 or email philip@pglemon.co.uk.

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have just finished reading Taxtopia: How I Discovered the Injustices, Scams and Guilty Secrets of the Tax Evasion Game, by ‘The Rebel Accountant’ – not me, I hasten to add, but I could have penned it, as it contained nothing I did not know!

The blurring of the lines between tax avoidance and tax evasion (legal v illegal) and the morality of “to pay or not to pay” tax has been the focus of successive Governments since time immemorial.

Landlords have had a tough ride in this game of cat and mouse where rules are used to trip up the tax payer.

The removal of higher rate tax relief on mortgage interest payments has in many cases made Buy To Let property a much less attractive investment, and now we have HMRC Guidance Spotlight Number 63, on Property Business Arrangements Involving Hybrid Partnerships.

This is aimed at landlords and tax scheme promoters offering solutions around the mortgage interest tax relief restrictions.

This often involves a first step of moving the property from personal ownership into a partnership arrangement, then perhaps later into a limited company.

The schemes are designed to get around having to pay Capital Gains Tax and/or Stamp Duty.

CLARIFICATION The HMRC guidance tries to kill several birds with one stone. The taxman does not like mixed or hybrid partnerships which have a limited company as a partner or, more commonly, a member of a Limited Liability Partnership. The “clarification” comes as the Revenue re-iterate that mixed partnerships are unacceptable in “property businesses”.

Cue much confusion for your humble asset-rich, cash-poor investment property owner!

Are you running a business when HMRC, for tax purposes, does not consider holding property as a business? Now in the guidance, they are calling it a business.

Then, in the good old days of tax planning we knew that avoidance was okay, evasion was not. While the ownership of property for investment is still a sensible aim as part of a long-term strategy, how you go about it has just become more complex – so, be careful, keep it simple, and take advice to avoid the taxman coming to inspect your arrangements for holding property! ■

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Commercial Considerations

Charles Knapper LLB answers our questions about the legal complexities of property transactions – this time, commercial property leasing ABOUT THE AUTHOR Charles Knapper has 24 years of legal experience in property, disputes, family and children’s law, wills and probate, and is a Consultant Partner of Curtis Whiteford Crocker Solicitors, 247 Dean Cross Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL9 7AZ. See the website at cwcsolicitors.co.uk.

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ore and more people are taking on short commercial leases for their business, without taking any legal advice. Often this is because they have had experience of renting out a property, and assume this is similar and that everyone uses standard agreements. But there are a number of essential matters that should always be considered before taking a lease of commercial property, particularly since once you sign it, you are bound by it. The

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first step is to draw up something called “heads of terms” with the key points, but here are some other points to consider.

1. USE Make sure you will be able to use the property for the purpose you intend. Check with the local planning office to ensure the use you intend is allowed for by planning consent. Remember that the landlord will still want the rent paid, even if you cannot use the property for its intended use.

Check plans to ensure the extent of the property being leased is correct – there’s nothing worse than assuming you can use parking space only to discover you have no right to do so.

2. REPAIR Most commercial leases require the tenant to keep the property in good condition, even to the extent of putting it in that condition though it was dilapidated at the start of the lease! A condition report

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agreed by landlord and tenant at the outset is essential. Remove any reference to putting the property in “good and substantial repair” - instead insist that you must return the property in no better condition that at the commencement of the lease. If you are fitting out the property, agree with the landlord what happens at the end of the lease - do the fittings remain or do you remove them?

6. ASSIGNMENT You may want to assign the lease to someone else or split up the property and allow someone to share it with you, but often this is prohibited or will require the landlord’s approval. Try to agree a right to assign or transfer the lease to someone else or to sublet, but be aware that you may be required to be guarantor for the new tenant, which could be a very onerous provision.

3. TERMS The length of the lease is very important don’t rush to get the longest term you can.

Short leases (seven years or below) don’t incur Stamp Duty land tax, and don’t have to be registered at the Land Registry. Short leases also provide flexibility if you want to move to another premises and bring the lease to an end. Negotiate a ‘break option’, a right to terminate the lease, on a fixed date or on a rolling basis. Take legal advice on break options as landlords often try to impose onerous terms to make the exercise of the break option as difficult as possible.

7. RENT Quarterly advance rent payments have been common, but monthly payments are now moreso, particularly in shorter leases.

A deposit of three to six months’ rent may be required, and if the tenant is a limited company the landlord may require your personal guarantee. Most leases allow the rent to be increased to take account of inflation and property value, either predetermined at the outset by what is called a “stepped rent”, or by rent review provisions providing for an open market valuation, or for increases by reference to an inflation index (e.g. the CPI or RPI) at certain intervals; in either case they are most likely to be “upwards only”, which means that the rent will never decrease following a review! ■

IMAGES: Dreamstime

4. SECURITY There are two types of commercial lease as a result of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. This act gives a commercial tenant the right to renew the lease at the end of the term so as to protect the tenant’s business. The Landlord can however contract out of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, giving no right to renew, so at the end of the term the tenant must vacate or negotiate a new lease.

5. ALTERATIONS Reasonably, landlords often want to maintain control over any alterations to a property, often prohibiting structural alterations without consent. Some alterations may be allowed by the lease without consent, such as installing partition walls, but often a landlord will only allow works if a licence is granted, and you will be liable for the costs. You also need to establish whether these works have to be put back to the original condition at the end of the lease or left for the landlord to use. celebrityangels.co.uk

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10 Ways your Conservatory can help save Energy costs this Winter!

As the winter chill approaches, homeowners are seeking ways to keep energy costs under control while maintaining a cosy and comfortable living environment. After the cost-of-living increase last year impacted the way we live, more and more people are resorting to new measures to cut energy costs and manage their bills.

One often overlooked asset for energy savings is the conservatory.

Beyond being a charming addition to your home, a well-maintained conservatory can play a pivotal role in reducing your winter energy expenses.

Here are ten compelling ways your conservatory can be your secret weapon in saving energy costs this winter: 1. Natural Sunlight: The ample sunlight that pours into your conservatory can act as a natural source of warmth during the daytime. Having solid roof panels can also improve the reflection of natural sunlight, no matter the weather due to its bright finish and reduce direct glare from the sun. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and heating, ultimately leading to energy savings!

2. Passive Solar Heating: A well-designed conservatory with strategically placed windows can harness the sun's heat through passive solar heating. This means that even on colder days, the sun's energy can still contribute to maintaining a comfortable temperature indoors.

7. Leak Control: Check for and fix any leaks and make sure they don’t come from structural damage. Polycarbonate roofs don’t have adequate insulation and can start to decay after just a few years and the weather can cause more damage, leading to more leaks!

8. Blinds and Curtains: Consider adding blinds or thick curtains to your conservatory windows to help retain heat during the winter. This is a good option but can be costly, difficult to clean and lead to other issues, such as dust and mould. You could be paying around £5,000 for conservatory blinds and it could cost even more should you want motorised or sail blinds for your conservatory.

9. Control moisture and humidity: Any increase in moisture and humidity can cause different problems with your conservatory, from mould and mildew to structural damage, which can lead to leaks and less efficient temperature control. Issues with mould and mildew can be a serious health hazard, particularly if you suffer from respiratory conditions. Using a dehumidifier and regularly ventilating your conservatory can help reduce moisture in the air and the chances of damp and mould problems.

10. Extra Living Space: By adding high quality aluminium panels with a long guarantee, you can make optimal use of your conservatory all year round and effectively spread out the occupants of your home with an extra usable space and prevent overloading your central heating system.

3. Thermal Mass: Many conservatories are constructed with materials that have high thermal mass, such as stone or concrete floors. These materials absorb and store heat during the day, releasing it gradually during the cooler evenings, providing consistent warmth. Upgrading your conservatory floor with an insulated alternative or underfloor heating can also help you control the temperature more effectively.

4. Soft Furnishings: By using soft furnishings, such as cushions, throws, rugs and other decorations you can create a space that captures and retains heat effectively and create a more homely and usable space.

5. Insulated Roofing: Upgrading to high quality insulated aluminium panels can prevent heat from escaping through the roof and provide a sturdier, quieter roof that can withstand damage and noise from weather. Good quality panels also help maintain a stable indoor temperature throughout your home all year round, reducing the need for additional heating.

6. Doors and Windows: Regularly inspecting the alignment and condition of your doors and windows can help you spot any issues and drafts. Every instance of an open door or window that isn't essential, along with improperly fitted ones, can lead to heat escaping.

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Green Space UK's 10-Year Guarantee: Quality You Can Trust At Green Space UK, our 10-year guarantee is a testament to the unwavering quality and reliability of our products.

We take pride in every aspect of our offerings; from the materials we choose to the craftsmanship we apply.

Your conservatory can be a valuable ally in curbing energy costs during the winter season, and adopting energyefficient practices, you can create a welcoming space that doesn't burden your energy bills. Embrace the potential of your conservatory and embark on a winter filled with comfort, cosiness, and savings.

15/09/2023 11:35

Enhancing Home Comfort with Green Space UK Conservatory Roofs When a leaflet from Green Space UK landed through their door, Mr and Mrs Pols decided it was the perfect opportunity to explore the idea of replacing their conservatory roof. Intrigued by the possibilities, they delved into online research, and Green Space UK stood out as a company worth investigating further. With a clear goal in mind, they scheduled a presentation with Cory, eager to learn more about the potential benefits.

From the moment Cory began his presentation, it was clear that this was a company focused on delivering comprehensive and transparent information. Recognising the importance of a thorough understanding, Cory took the time to explain every detail of the process and the associated costs. The Pols were pleased to find that there was no rush to decide; instead, they were given the time they needed to discuss and consider their options.

Impressed by the product's quality and the clear insight into the entire process, Mr and Mrs Pols felt confident that their investment with Green Space UK would be money well spent. Despite the slightly higher cost compared to their initial plans, the detailed information provided by Cory reassured them that the value for money would be worth it.

As their conservatory journey began, Mr and Mrs Pols were pleasantly surprised by the smooth and efficient process.

The surveyor's thorough inspection instilled confidence, and the production of the panels proceeded as initially communicated, even factoring in the interruption of the Christmas holiday.

The fitting date was scheduled at their convenience, and the installation carried out by Matt and David was meticulous and professional. They appreciated the time taken to explain each step and address any questions they had. Once the installation was complete, it was as if Matt and David had never been there - a sign of the care they took in their work.

Throughout the entire process, the head office maintained open communication, ensuring that everything was progressing seamlessly. Mr and Mrs Pols found solace in the fact that they were working with a company that prioritised customer satisfaction and transparency.

Now, with their Green Space UK conservatory roof seamlessly integrated into their home, Mr and Mrs Pols feel as if they've gained more than just a simple addition. Their newly renewed and well insulated conservatory roof has transformed their space into an extension of their living area, providing them with enhanced comfort all year round and a renewed sense of enjoyment in their home.

In their own words, "We feel now as if our conservatory is more like an extension!" The journey from leaflet to the transformed living space has been marked by thoroughness, professionalism, and communication, ultimately leaving Mr and Mrs Pols with a home enhancement that exceeded their expectations.

Contact us today!

Join our ever-growing family of satisfied customers.

Celebrate with us as we mark a decade of offering highquality conservatory roofs, and embark on a journey toward a more comfortable, healthier, and relaxed lifestyle.

Take the first step towards transforming your conservatory space into breath-taking haven you can use all the time no matter the weather!

Before

After

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!

Call FREE on 0800 65 25 157

Green Space UK: Nurturing Nature, Enriching Lives

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Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Green Space UK! Join the Green Space UK innovation with over 12,000 Happy Customers!

It's a special year for Green Space UK as we proudly celebrate our 10th anniversary of transforming conservatories into comfortable, energy efficient havens that are usable all year round!

A Decade of Green Space UK Excellence!

Over the past ten years, Green Space UK has been at the forefront of the conservatory roofing business, reimagining conservatories with our innovative roofing solutions. We've meticulously crafted high quality, insulated aluminium roofing panels, infusing resistance for all weathers and functionality into every conservatory roof.

What Sets Us Apart?

At Green Space UK, we go beyond just conservatory roofing; we aim to create long lasting enjoyable experiences. With a keen eye for detail and an understanding of the transformative power of our panels, we craft conservatory roofing that stands the test of time, with a 10-year guarantee on all our panels! We take pride in our work and use high quality materials and practices to leave a positive impact on our customers and our planet.

Experience the Green Space Magic!

As we raise a toast to a decade of excellence, we invite you to be a part of our 10th-anniversary celebration.

Let us work together to turn your dreams of a usable and temperature regulated conservatory into a reality. Whether you envision a tranquil reading space, a vibrant living area, or a functional, efficient office next to nature, Green Space UK has the expertise to bring your vision to life.

Your Dream Conservatory Awaits!

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Comfort in Style

Conservatories can be a great enhancement to a home, but can also suffer from energy efficiency problems - so what are the solutions?

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by traders from warmer regions of the Mediterranean. Preservation of citrus fruits and other tender plants started out as crudely as building a pergola over potted plants or beds, or simply moving potted plants indoors for the cold season.

Known in Italy as limonaia, these early structures employed wood panels or open galleries to protect from the cold.

Further north in Europe, the preservation of orange trees became the trend with special-purpose buildings built to protect the tasty, but delicate fruit,

known as orangeries. Today an orangery is regarded as a feature with less glass than a conservatory, and more internal supports. It may even be a separate building to the main house.

GLAZING The terms sunroom, solarium and conservatory are often used interchangeably, but the particularly English conservatory carries the image of an ornate structure, echoing the traditions of the Victorian era »

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hile a conservatory can be a great enhancement to the value and utility of your home, adding space to relax, work and play, the fact that they are not solid structures - well, not as solid as the main part of the house anyway opens them up to practical problems.

Conservatories originated in the 16th century when wealthy landowners wanted to cultivate citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges that began to appear on their dinner tables, supplied

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the thermal transmittance or rate of heat loss through any type of building element, including conservatory roofs.

The lower the U-value, the better - 4mm polycarbonate roofs typically have a U-value of 3.8, 25mm polycarbonate material has a U-value of 1.4, while triple glazing has a U-value of 1.2 and solar glazing has a U-value of 1.

A common solution is to fit a roof panel over the existing glass or polycarbonate.

These panels typically have a U-value of around 0.29, making them much more efficient insulators that the typical glass or polycarbonate conservatory roof.

PANELS Replacement panels are typically made of a sandwich of elements such as foam and aluminium foil, and can be around 75mm thick. Of course, fitting them over existing transparent panels means some loss of light, so they are normally painted white on the inside to reflect as much internal lighting as possible. The panels have to be made to measure, as each conservatory will be a different size and design, and this normally takes a few weeks, but once this is done the fitting job is quick, normally taking no more than a day.

The added benefit of replacement conservatory roof panels is that they provide sound insulation, so while rain or hail may sound intolerably noisy inside an uninsulated conservatory, once replacement panels are fitted, you will find it much more comfortable to live, work and play inside your conservatory whatever the weather conditions.

Just as there are many colours of conservatory, from classic white to modern greens and blacks, there are matching shades of replacement panels so you should be able to find something to match your existing style. ■

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of conservatory building. Modern conservatories tend also to feature a traditional cresting and finial on the roof, along with single, double patio or even bi-folding doors.

In the UK, the legal definition of a conservatory is a building that has at least 50 percent of its side wall area glazed and at least 75 percent of its roof glazed with translucent materials, either polycarbonate sheeting or glass.

While some ‘half-brick’ conservatories can be relatively heat efficient, the more glass or polycarbonate there is in the structure, the more they are open to three problems; being too hot in the summer, too cold in the winter, and noisy every time it rains.

The older your conservatory is, the more likely you are to have these structural problems, and in a time when we all want to save money on energy bills and reduce our carbon footprints, it’s essential you do something to remediate your tired conservatory.

Even if your conservatory is double or triple glazed, if it’s more than 20 years or so of age, it probably doesn’t match the insulation standards of modern glazing.

A specialist can measure the U-value,

If you are building a conservatory, don’t forget that it needs a solid foundation as much as any other part of your building. The bigger and heavier the conservatory, the deeper the foundation it will need, from a small single story wooden lean-to with lightweight glass wright up to an ornate orangery.

The depth of the foundation will be reflected in the project price, and while you might be able to hand-dig a shallow foundation, for a larger project you may need access to the back of the house to get a mini-digger on the job!

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About Us

We are a company dedicated to enhancing the energy efficiency of residential homes, all at zero expense to the homeowner/tenant, thanks to government grants.

Improve your home today for FREE.

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Founded in 2019 with one promise in mind. The promise was and still is to provide energy efficient solutions to help achieve the government’s target of NET ZERO carbon emissions by 2050. This promise has led us to working with homeowners, Local Authorities, Landlords, and letting agents nationwide.

UK Eco Solutions cover the whole of England and Wales

Our team consists of fully accredited, Knowledgeable staff, from the office to the site engineers.

Our Focus is providing a no-nonsense approach to the energy efficiency needs to our customers.

With access to a variety of funding options, UK Eco Solutions will advise on the best solution to suit your needs.

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Our Process

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PROPERTY

Insulate

to Innovate We all know that it’s essential to lower our carbon footprint and save money on energy, but how can insulating your home help?

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ith the cost of energy skyrocketing and wildfires reducing much of the planet to a cinder, it should not take much persuasion for people to want to cut energy use and save money. But the UK has among the worst insulated housing in Europe - according to measurements made in 2020, the average UK home loses three degrees of heat after just five hours, while those in Germany lose one degree and Norway just 0.9 degrees in the same time.

Heat leaking through uninsulated walls, roofs and windows is money wasted, and if we can retain that heat through better insulation, we could turn down our thermostats, save money on our energy bills and reduce the carbon emissions which are contributing to global warming.

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The good thing is that there are lots of ways you can insulate your property which aren’t that expensive, so you can quickly make back your costs in energy savings.

WALLS Nearly a third of all heat loss from solid walled properties occurs through the walls, and this is particularly notable with cavity walls. Cavity walls, with an airgap between outer and inner walls, were designed to keep out damp, but they are very poor at insulating against heat loss. Pre-1920 houses are more likely to have solid walls.

A solid wall has no cavity; each wall is solid, usually made of brick or stone. Houses with cavity walls were mainly built between this period and the 1990s, and may have no wall insulation at all, but from the 1990s on

houses usually have wall insulation.

To insulate a cavity wall, an installer will often drill small holes and inject foam, beads or fibres, then fill the holes.

But this method is often criticised for causing damp problems. An alternative is internal wall insulation, where insulated plasterboard or PIR (polyisocyanurate) foam boards are fitted on the inside walls.

This has the added advantage of not interfering with the external appearance of the building.

LOFTS Another area of significant heat loss is the roof, so it’s essential this is tackled, particularly if you want to use the loft as a storage area or convert it into a living space. Government grants are available to

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Martin’s Tips

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help with the costs of loft insulation, and you will notice the difference immediately, particularly in the winter months. Roof and loft floor insulation comes in a number of forms, from rolls of mineral insulation laid between rafters or under a raised floor, to foam applied between rafters. In any case you will find roof insulation to be remarkably effective at cutting your energy use in the long term. Of course, if you have a ‘Room in Roof’, a loft converted into living space, accessed via a fixed staircase, the value of roof insulation is particularly high, keeping the room cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

GETTING HELP The Great British Insulation Scheme is a new government scheme to help people insulate their homes, make them more energy efficient and save money on their energy bills. The scheme will run until March 2026.

Previously known as ECO+, the £1 billion scheme will help around 300,000 households across the country with the cost of installing new home insulation, and will save consumers around £300 to £400 a year on their bills.

The scheme will boost help for those on the lowest incomes, as well as extending support to a wider range of households living in the least energy-efficient homes in the country (those with an Energy

Performance Certificate rating of D or below) and in the lower Council Tax bands (A-D and England, A-E in Scotland and Wales).

The scheme works by obligating energy suppliers to help customers to reduce their heating bills, through the installation of energy efficiency measures such as loft and cavity wall insulation. Your costs may be covered in full or in part.

Households will be able to check their eligibility on GOV.UK or through a participating energy supplier or local authority. If you’re eligible, you will then be contacted about arranging a survey of your home and to organise any installation. Find out more at www.gov.uk/ environment/climate-change-energy. ■

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“Insulation makes a huge difference – think loft, wall and underfloor – in saving energy. If you’re already doing other renovations or planning an extension, such as a loft conversion, combine the work and, if not, consider whether you might want some extra living space in the future, and whether it is better to do it now.

Improving your home to make it more energy efficient will save you money not only in the short-term – ensuring savings on your energy consumption come next winter – but in the longer term, too, as your energy savings build up”

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UK RESIDENTS ACHIEVING HIGH ROI WITH R2RSA INVESTMENTS! Investing wisely can transform your hard-earned money into substantial returns.

While the allure of effortless multiplication of funds is tempting, it’s not always straightforward. Real Estate, for instance, can be daunting. Many fear the pitfalls of property ownership. However, the method of leasing properties to then sublet them for short stays has emerged as a promising avenue for significant ROI.

Why Choose Reloc8 EM for R2RSA Investments?

Reloc8 EM simplifies this investment process. Unlike traditional Rent to Rent services where you’re burdened with property upkeep and marketing, we manage everything, letting you truly enjoy a passive income. Our comprehensive package includes:  Guest relations  Cleaning and maintenance  Marketing Our seasoned team boasts a remarkable 90% occupancy rate, ensuring consistent returns. With us, you’re not just investing in property but in expertise that attracts premium guests.

Outstanding Growth with Reloc8 EM Our clients have witnessed their investments grow by approximately 7.2 times their initial amount. We’re

not just about returns; we’re about enhancing your financial stability and opening new opportunities.

Top 6 Reasons to Partner with Us:  Genuine passive income.  Superior rental yields compared to long-term rentals.  A flexible, low-risk investment approach.  Expert management tailored for short-term rentals.  A truly hands-off experience.  Trust and Transparency with Reloc8 EM We prioritize your confidence in our services. All contracts with property landlords will have you as a witness, ensuring your investment is secure in every sense. It’s not just about financial security but also about trust.

Why Wait? Invest Now! Few financial ventures offer the safety, ease, and success that R2RSA with Reloc8 EM provides. Supported by a dedicated team, this investment requires zero effort from you. Ready to embark on this lucrative journey? Visit www.reloc8-em.co.uk and discover how a simple upfront investment can change your financial trajectory. Alternatively, feel free to call us on 0770 978 7756.

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PROPERTY

The Hands-Off Manager If you fancy the benefits of property investment without any of the hassle, is a ‘hands-off’ property management service for you?

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f you have been reading Property & Home with Martin Roberts for long enough, you will know that despite the ups and downs of the property market, there are always persuasive reasons to invest. Whether you want to buy at auction, renovate and ‘flip’ a property for a quick profit, live in it yourself as a long-term investment, or build a portfolio of buy-to-rent properties, there’s always a sound argument for putting your money into property.

But, it can be a bumpy ride, with fluctuations in the prices of housing, disruption to the mortgage market and change in tax laws making it difficult to make long-term decisions. What if you want to have a predictable income without having to play the game of constantly moving your money around and looking

for the next snake or ladder in the property market board game?

Increasingly, investors are looking to two solutions. One is to invest in the international market, where national fluctuations are less of a problem; the other is to look into the ‘R2R’, or ‘Rent-toRent’ market, rather than being committed to a ‘Buy to Rent’ investment.

RETURNS So how does it work? Typically, with R2R, you will invest your money, perhaps £25,000, in a management company with an international portfolio of rental properties. Over a contract period of perhaps five years, the company will utilize your capital to acquire properties of optimal value and manage them efficiently through various rental models,

in collaboration with trusted local management companies. These properties tend to be upmarket rentals, often serviced accommodation (SA) which can maintain a high level of occupancy at all times of the year.

If you have the money to invest in property but perhaps not the time or inclination to manage it, this hands-off approach may work well for you. The management company eliminates the time and fuss involved in managing a property portfolio, so you don’t have to deal with things like guest relations, cleaning and maintenance, while guaranteeing a defined monthly return on your investment. The key of course is access to prime properties, so do make sure when you look into R2R management that the company has a good track record of testimonials. ■

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Solar & Batteries

Insulation & Heating

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Why choose Saving Energy?

We offer bespoke packages designed for your home and with you in mind, using market leading technologies. We provide complimentary services to maximise the benefits from your solar PV system, including batteries, insulation, heating, and behavioural change advice. Our systems come with a mobile apps providing 24/7 real time monitoring so you can get the most from your system. We also have access to funding to support your project where eligible.

Funding Available

Real-time monitoring

Quality aftercare

Bespoke design packages

Call us on: 0800 954 9689

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PROPERTY

Volts from the Sun Is it true that a solar-powered house can provide all your energy for free? It can if you choose the right technology

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small-scale hydro, biomass and heat pumps.

If you are thinking about a solar photovoltaic system, you may worry that it will be difficult to install. In fact many systems can be fitted in as little as a day. Straight away you will get the benefit of free energy from the sun.

FOOTPRINT Generating your own electricity obviously saves you money, but it also reduces your carbon footprint, and with the current rash of climatic disasters, it’s obvious that we all need to do our bit to combat global warming in this way.

Of course, there is a little more to a solar power system that just the panels on the roof. In most cases you will need an inverter, which converts the electricity produced from direct current (DC) to the

240V AC (Alternating Current) used by household appliances. You will also have a control panel installed with a display so you monitor the functioning of the system.

Once you have done that, you won’t notice any difference between your solar electricity and what you get from the National Grid.

(Well, that’s not strictly true – solar panels of course operate a lot less efficiently in the dark or in bad weather, so you may still rely to some extent on the National Grid. There are ways to get around this though, with battery storage systems).

Each home is different, so the solar power system you have installed will normally be tailored precisely to your needs.

To find a certified solar power contractor, start by visiting https://mcscertified.com to find a company near you. ■

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n these days when energy prices are spiking, and there seems to be little prospect of the green energy revolution bringing down our bills, it’s comforting to know that there is one technology which is proven, which can supply all your energy needs for free once correctly installed, and which will also add value to your home.

Solar panels, usually installed on the roof of a home, use photovoltaic cells to harness the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity. If solar panels are used efficiently, it’s estimated that the average home could generate 50-60 percent of the power needed to supply its electricity through solar electricity. A standards authority, the MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) sets standards for solar power generation, and also other small energy sources such as

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PROPERTY

Cover Story Is it worth paying for insurance cover on utility systems?

If you look at the figures, it makes sense

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But if you are reliant on your boiler for both hot water and heating, and particularly in the winter months, you can find yourself in a pickle if your boiler packs in.

Boiler repairs may be covered on your home insurance, but if not, a boiler cover policy might cost you as little as around 25p a day. For that you could get a 24-hour emergency repair service for the boiler, controls, and central heating system, including parts and labour, and an annual boiler service. Look for a policy where there is no limit to the cost or number of the repairs.

Modern boiler systems that have been looked after with regular boiler maintenance burn their fuel more efficiently than old models that have been neglected. Looking after your boiler on a regular basis will also reduce the risk of gas

leaks, and improve protection within your home (including carbon monoxide safety).

PIPES Another household cover area which is often neglected is external water pipes.

Your home insurance should cover you for bursts and leaks inside the home, but it’s not always understood that if you are a homeowner, you (not your water supplier) may be responsible for the water supply pipe passing from the mains through your grounds or garden to your house.

Check whether your home insurance covers this, and if it does not, consider separate cover. Then, if you wake up one morning to find your driveway flooded because cold weather has burst the supply pipe (been there – Ed.), you will be able to claim on your insurance for what might be a costly repair job. ■

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ike most insurance policies, paying to cover household fittings like boilers and plumbing is a bit of a gamble - if you never claim on the policy, it’s money down the drain. But when you do need to call on it, you might find that the cost of the premiums is made more than worthwhile compared to the worth of the cover.

Let’s look at boilers. According to Uswitch, 23m homes in the UK have a gas boiler to supply heating and hot water.

Repairs can be costly, averaging around £500, and the price of a new boiler can vary from £1,500 to £5,000. And despite (or perhaps because of) the fact that the government plans to phase out gas boilers, UK sales in 2021 were up by 41 percent over 2020, to 675,000, perhaps partly due to people wanting to install more modern, energy efficient boilers.

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HOME AND BOILER COVER A YourRepair Boiler Care plan ensures that homeowners and landlords benefit from an annual boiler service, maintenance for optimal energy consumption and expert repairs in the event of a breakdown.

With YourRepair Boiler care, homeowners and landlords have access to a nationwide team of skilled engineers who are equipped to handle and resolve almost all boiler-related issues. If the boiler is beyond economic repair, YourRepair can recommend a new energy-

efficient model and install it quickly, securing the comfort and safety of your family or tenants.

With five different plans to choose from, homeowners can select a package for just their gas boiler and controls or add central heating, home electrics, pest control and even more. With prices ranging from just £8 a month with variable call-out fees from £0, homeowners can get a little peace of mind or a lot; it’s entirely up to them.

Plus, all plans include a FREE gas safety certificate and boiler service.

Call 0330 223 4422 or scan www.yourrepair.co.uk Use the code

HOME10

for at checkout f of % 10 any care plan

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PROPERTY

The Doors of Perception

Your front door says more about your house than any other aspect - so isn’t it about time you had it replaced with something more modern?

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hey say that ‘kerb appeal’, the way your property looks from the street, is one of the main factors in sealing a sale, and the front door is one of the most important elements of this look. If your door has flaking paint, cracked glazing, warped woodwork or shabby fittings, potential buyers are going to be put off before they even walk up the driveway.

Even if you are not planning to sell, there’s a powerful argument for replacing your front (and back, and side) doors, because they are a major area of heat loss.

Modern thermally insulating doors are a great way to improve the energy efficiency of your home, which will increase its comfort and value.

of your house without compromising on security or efficiency. Steel doors offer the most security, and can be fitted to timber or synthetic stiles and rails. An insulating polyurethane foam core means that these doors can be four time more thermally and acoustically insulating than timber doors.

Steel doors normally have a number of glazing options and are compatible with a wide range of locks and other ironmongery, can be painted in any colour and require little maintenance.

While PVC (polyvinyl chloride plastic) doors can be economical, GRP (glass

reinforced polymer, or fibreglass) composite doors combine high performance with low maintenance, outperforming both traditional solid timber and PVCu counterparts. The durable construction of GRP makes it tough enough to resist impact, wear and weathering, while offering the traditional good looks of timber and much better durability. GRP doors can be cut in width and height, allowing them to be sized to fit existing openings for refurbishment projects – and they are often available in coloured finishes or in a primer finish for on-site painting. ■

SECURITY Another good argument for replacing the external doors of your house is that it greatly enhances security. Statistics show that 74 percent of burglaries are committed through the front door; many of these crimes are opportunistic, and if your front door looks secure, with modern locks and security gadgets, a potential burglar will likely move on to the next property.

In terms of design, the great thing about modern doors is that they can be chosen to blend in with the architecture celebrityangels.co.uk

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To get your special magazine offer quote and drawings please quote HPMICD23 Inspired Conservatories Direct believes as a family run business that we can provide you with the best possible service at the lowest possible prices for your DIY Conservatory selection. We will work with you to create the product you desire, deliver all the components direct to your door and be on hand for each step of the process. We have many years of experience within the team so you can be assured that you are in safe hands with your project if you choose to go on this exciting journey with us.

Our promise to you We will supply a no obligation quotation and drawings after consulting with you to ensure the design meets all of your personal requirements and provides the exact overall look you want for your conservatory. All of our conservatories come with a comprehensive 10 year guarantee. Rest assured when you come to us, your DIY conservatory will be the highest quality, at the lowest possible price.

Call for a no obligation telephone consultation 0330 174 4000 or visit www.inspiredconservatories.co.uk Inspired Conservatories Direct_V2_r1.indd 1

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PROPERTY

Conserving the Modern Whether you opt for traditional styles or a more modern approach, there’s a range of conservatories to add to the value of your home

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or the contemporary homeowner, there is now an abundance of choice when it comes to design styles and options for a conservatory. What’s more, technological advances have ushered in a new breed of sophisticated and modern conservatory designs.

One of the most popular and contemporary types of conservatory is the lean-to design. This style is all about creating a simple, modern look, by using clear-cut lines, and wooden or tiled floors, while using minimal furniture to maximise light and space.

Much of the reason why lean-to designs are becoming so popular is due to their versatility. With the ability to adapt and fit onto any home no matter the size, as well as making the most out of existing space, they are a popular choice for any homeowner.

LINES While the ‘half-brick’ design is still popular, many of today’s conservatories are shifting toward being fully glazed glass structures.

Not only do they add a more modern feel, but they also allow in more light than traditional designs. In fact, some modern designs are replacing wood altogether, opting instead for laminated glass roof rafters to be used for structural support.

Another feature that is gaining popularity is folding or sliding doors. Double-glazed, aluminium bi-fold doors are a popular option and can give a conservatory a spacious feel, while adding a contemporary elegance to the design.

Building a conservatory with angular or curved lines adds a modern twist. This growing trend also pairs perfectly with folding or sliding doors. Try using slim line

timber or metal framing to get the most polished look.

Inspired by traditional orangeries, roof lanterns are now being increasingly implemented in modern designs. The trick is to settle on a simple, circular design in order to maintain a contemporary aesthetic.

Adding a roof lantern will also allow more natural light into your conservatory room.

As with any home extension or renovation, a conservatory has the potential to add extra value to your home.

How much worth it will add depends a great deal on the quality of the materials used to complete the structure. Although the value a conservatory will bring to your home will depend on the quality of the finished product, on average expect it to increase your home’s worth by around five percent. ■

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The Digital Conveyancing journey and what it includes...

How has the Conveyancing process evolved?

The Conveyancing process has remained largely unchanged for many years.

It can seem a little archaic to those who have become used to using digital processes in other walks of life. Whilst there are still challenges (both legal and technical) in providing a fully digital journey, there is now an appetite within the industry to modernise the process. An example would be the Digital Property Market Steering Group that has been set up to bring together key industry partners under a shared vision of a digital property future. Until such time, as there is industry wide, wholesale change, there are tools available to those who want to embrace technology in order to enhance the client’s journey through the conveyancing process.

One such tool that has been adopted by Sort Legal is a digital onboarding journey.

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What does a Digital Journey include?

At Sort Legal, we use “FastStart Onboarding” software developed by Sort Group.

This software provides a digital onboarding portal to all Conveyancing clients.

The onboarding process is absolutely key to the process. It is vital that we obtain clear and comprehensive information about the transaction at an early stage together with all the identification documentation required to discharge our Know your Client and Anti Money Laundering obligations.

“FastStart” allows our clients to digitally complete and sign our terms of business, the initial Client Questionnaire, and any relevant TA forms (if appropriate) via the secure portal, which can be accessed via desktop,

mobile or tablet.

Once the forms have been completed, our clients can then complete an online electronic ID check by uploading their ID documentation and simply taking a selfie.The portal gives clear and concise instructions every step of the way to ensure our clients are left in no doubt as to what is outstanding and when the process shas been successfully completed. Once all steps are completed then the documents are automatically downloaded into our practice management software.

How can it benefit you as the customer?

Previously, completed forms and proof of ID were exchanged via post, or email.

The cons of these included the time taken to print and send information back and forth and potential cyber security risks by email.

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Technology and Customer Service – the Perfect Blend.

Using Technology in the Conveyancing process allows better efficiencies, processes and quicker exchanging of information, leading to quicker completions. However, it is only one part of the puzzle.

Technology and Customer Service must work in combination to provide the perfect balance and customer journey.

At Sort Legal, service underpins everything we do and we’re proud to be rated as ‘Excellent’ with a 4.4 score on Trustpilot.

Our Client onboarding software provides: ✔A secure portal that allows clients to complete and upload all information to send directly to us. ✔No delays or costs for sending information or uploading documents. ✔A guided process that is quick and easy to use. ✔Provide comprehensive information quickly at the start of the process allows

Prior to the introduction of the client onboarding portal, in some instances it could take up to four weeks to receive the information required for the case handler to get started.

As well as benefiting our clients, it also helps our Case Handlers and any thirdparty intermediaries, such as Estate Agents/Mortgage Brokers by making the transaction seamless and resolving key friction points.

the Case Handler to work on the case quicker, speeding up time to Legal completion. ✔Identifying compliance issues with regards to source of funds and ID at the early stages of the transaction.

When looking at the Remortgage portal statistics: 15% of clients complete their information the same day.

35% of clients complete their information within two days.

40% of clients complete their information within three days.

50% of clients complete their information within five days.

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If you’d like to find out more about our Digital Onboarding, please get in touch with a member of the team: • https://sortlegal.co.uk/ contact • enquiries@sortlegal.co.uk • 0333 3231091 Or find our guide here: sortlegal.co.uk/id-anddigital-signing

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PROPERTY

Choosing the Right

Conveyancer

Conveyancing is an essential part of the property sales process, but little understood outside the industry. We explain the essentials

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f you are buying or selling a property, you will certainly come across the term ‘conveyancing’, but what does it mean, what does conveyancing involve and why is it essential to have it done by a professional?

In theory, you could do your own conveyancing, which is the process of legally transferring ownership of property from one person to another.

But because there are so many legal

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complexities involved, and professional conveyancers have decades of experience in anticipating possible pitfalls, it would be very foolish not to have the work done by a professional.

At the end of the conveyancing procedure, all legal requirements should have been taken care of, and most importantly, both parties to the transaction will be protected against possible legal action in the future.

EXCHANGE The conveyancing process can take anything from six to 14 weeks, depending on whether the property is freehold, leasehold, or a new build. During the process, the buyer’s solicitor will raise enquiries on subjects such as the legal title to the property, documents supplied by the seller, or issues raised by legal searches submitted on the property.

These issues are dealt with between the

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buyer’s and sellers’ solicitors and aid in the decision-making process.

The most common terms you will hear in connection with a conveyancing transaction are Exchange and Completion.

‘Exchange’ is the exchange of contracts that makes the transaction legally binding between the parties, and Completion is the agreed upon date when the parties physically move.

REPORTS As part of the conveyancing process, a survey reporting on the physical condition of the property is usually carried out by the mortgage provider. This will cover areas such as local authority permissions, water and drainage, environmental, and chancel repair liability (a requirement to contribute towards the costs of local church repairs. Yes, despite Henry VIII’s best efforts, this still exists in some parishes).

The survey can be carried out to various levels - a basic ‘home buyer’s’, a complete structural, or a valuation survey. A complete structural survey is only required on properties in need of significant restoration.

Another check carried out by the conveyancing solicitor is for covenants, legally binding promise attached to the land. These could include restrictions on alterations to the property, requirements not to park caravans or commercial vehicles on the property, not to erect satellite dishes, not to cause a nuisance or annoyance to neighbours, limitations on the number and/or type of animals that can be kept at the property, and so on.

As the buyer, you should be aware of any covenants attached to the land so that you can ensure you comply with them during your ownership.

Your case manager may also identify defects such as missing title documents with the land registry or absent planning or building regulation certificates.

Another vital part of the conveyancing process is that the conveyancing solicitor usually holds a deposit of 10 percent of the purchase price from the buyer, to compensate the seller if the buyer fails to

complete financially. Following exchange but before completion, the conveyancing solicitor supplies a final statement of account showing the balance of funds required to complete. Once these are cleared the conveyancing process can proceed to completion.

It is sometimes possible if you are selling or buying a property with or without a mortgage to manage exchange and completion within seven days, though there is usually an additional charge for this from the conveyancing solicitor because of the large amount of work that needs to be done in a short time. It’s also sometimes possible to exchange and complete on the same day, though again this will usually involve an additional charge.

The conveyancing process is somewhat different in Scotland, where a solicitor will be the first point of contact for someone planning to sell, and many solicitors’ firms are also estate agents, so they play a more prominent role in selling homes. ■

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AML The conveyancing solicitor is also required to carry out checks under the Anti Money Laundering (AML) regulations. For instance, if any amount of money is being contributed to the cost of buying a property that is not from the buyers themselves, these “gift” or “third party” funds have to be checked for AML purposes, and this too could involve a charge.

In most cases, original documents such as bank statements and identity documents have to be supplied to support this process photocopies and scans are often not accepted. Again it is the job of the conveyancing solicitor to obtain and verify these documents, so it’s best to disclose if this is to be the case early in the transaction to avoid last-minute delays.

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PROPERTY

The Beauty of Brick It’s a traditional material, but has everything to offer in the 21st Century. We look at the beauty and utility of bricks for building

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consumption, as the walls efficiently support the house’s heating system and also absorb humidity that cannot escape through efficient climate shielding.

Brick is entirely compatible with modern heating systems such as heat pumps and under-floor heating, while modern materials such as porous concrete, cement, or wood may look good, but they often offer poor thermal insulation.

BENEFITS Brick absorbs humidity, reducing the possibility of damp and mildew, and is also an excellent sound insulator, so using it for internal and external walls gives a much better feeling of privacy than the ‘paper-thin’ walls often found in modern buildings. It’s also easier to mount fittings on a brick wall than on other types.

The other main benefit of brick,

it has to be said, is its looks. There’s nothing that says solidity and reliability more than a brick-built building (it’s a common aphorism), and this all adds to the sale value of a property. It’s also often the case that the variety of colour, texture and finish of brick makes it possible to match a building to its environment, so even a modern building can be given an air of the traditional and local.

Interior plastered brick walls require little maintenance, while exterior brick walls benefit from regular cleaning, repointing and sealing – but brick is made from the natural resources of clay and shale, and is therefore considered one of the most eco-friendly construction materials during its entire life cycle. Brick is the ideal combination of beauty and practicality, resulting in buidings that will outlive us all! ■

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uilding in brick is sometimes seen as a costly method, both in materials and labour. But brick, a material which let’s remember dates back at least 7,000 years, and was brought to the UK by the Romans, has some marvellous properties which make it a leading option for the modern housebuilding market.

The first thing to bear in mind is that brick is an excellent insulator, both in terms of heat and sound. Interior brick walls store heat and cool air, so in winter, the walls offer warmth, while on a hot summer day they have a cooling effect. This is good for the health of both the building and its occupants.

The other benefit of course is that brick buildings cost less to heat, because they are well insulated.

Using bricks for internal walls suits houses with passive and lower energy

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Find the right brick quick.

Carry the full suite of Michelmersh Clay Brick and Paver products in the palm of your hand. Our product swatch book is carefully refined to show colour and technical information using a fraction of the paper of traditional brochures.

Website: www.mbhplc.co.uk/inspiration/swatchbook Email: sales@mbhplc.co.uk Telephone: 0844 931 0022 Socials: @mbhplc

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DIY. Yes I did.

Visit us at amtechdiy.com

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PROPERTY

Renovate it Yourself We can all do a bit of DIY like wallpapering or putting a shelf up, but what about bigger jobs? It’s all about confidence…

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hether you want to do your house up to make it more comfortable to live in or to put it on the market, there are easy ways to do-it-yourself if you’re thinking of, say, repainting woodwork or tackling draughts. But what if you want to take on something bigger – something you might normally get in a tradesman for?

Certainly there are advantages to doing these bigger jobs yourself – not least you can save money and do them at your own pace and to your own style. The trick is to know which jobs are manageable, and which require skills, experience or qualifications which put them firmly in the domain of the professionals.

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Tiling Tiling seems like an intimidating job, but if it doesn’t involve complicated patterns or shapes of tiles, you should be able to tackle a straightforward kitchen, bathroom or utility room job yourself. As usual with DIY, there are three essentials; practicing the skills, having the right tools and making the right preparations.

For tiling, one essential skill to master is cutting tiles. You can buy a manual tile cutter or maybe hire an electric one; obviously practice makes perfect when it comes to cutting tiles, so make sure you have a few spares to sacrifice while you learn the skills.

The important part is to make sure your

surface is level before you start tiling, and if you are removing old tiles first, make sure that you protect baths and sinks in case they get chipped by falling bits.

Painting It’s surprising how many people tend to outsource painting jobs, when there are plenty you could tackle yourself. If your walls are the same colour as your ceiling, for instance, you don’t need to worry about the skill of ‘cutting in’ at the joins, or mastering the fine art of applying masking tape.

The best tips when painting are to invest in good brushes and rollers, not disposable ones, and to read the

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PROPERTY

instructions on the paint. And again, though you can to an extent paint over your problems, the smoother the surface you start with, the better your results will be.

Stripping Stripping out old fittings can be very cathartic, and so long as you have the right protective wear (masks, goggles, ear defenders, gloves and so on), you can have a lot of fun doing it. If your doors or banisters have been boarded up, tear off the boarding to restore the original panel and post look. Refurbish wood by chemical stripping (be careful with very old paint which may contain lead), and varnish or paint to restore the original beauty of the fittings.

Rip up old carpets and restore the wooden floor by sanding, but be prepared for this to be a long job requiring several passes with different grades of sandpaper.

Worktops It’s easy to rejuvenate a kitchen by just changing the doors and drawers rather than ripping out the carcasses. You can even replace worktops without all the palaver of cutting to length. Look for YouTube videos on casting your own concrete worktops – it’s surprisingly easy to do and costs practically nothing, about £6 per square metre. You aren’t limited to concrete grey for colours; you can choose white products such as Snowcrete, or even add dye for a bespoke shade, before creating a lovely smooth finish with layers of sealant. ■

LEAVE WELL ALONE! There are certain jobs you should never tackle as a DIY project. Chief among these are anything to do with gas supply, for which you need a professional on the Gas Safe Register (www.hse.gov.uk/gas), mains electricity, for which you need an NCEIC registered electrician, or mains plumbing.

Do not tackle any jobs involving power tools such as angle grinders or circular saws unless you have the correct training, protective gear and safety protocols in place, and anything involving working at height must be safety checked.

There are also some jobs which using hired tools you could theoretically DIY, such as plastering walls or stripping floorboards – but considering the potential for saggy plaster and scorched floors, these are arts probably best left to experienced tradesmen.

IMAGES: Dreamstime

Trimming If you want to turn a modern home into

something with an art deco touch, you can do a remarkable amount with simple additions such as dado rails, covings, mouldings and faux panelling. All you need for these jobs are basic tools such as a hammer and nails, a spirit level and tape measure. Before applying something like a ceiling rose to a light fitting, make sure the surface is clean and level, and use the right sort of adhesive.

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SimplyFind FIND YOUR NEXT INVESTMENT PROPERTY… FAST! Today there are vast amounts of data available to help inform property investors and hone their decision-making processes to build the best property portfolio available to them.

On the one hand, this is great news, from the comfort of your home you can assess the viability and suitability of thousands of properties that meet your investment criteria like never before… on the other hand it takes an inordinate amount of time (and money) to sift through the myriad of data sets to find the best property that match your investment targets… and on top of that, you actually need to know where to go to find the information in the first place.

This is where SimplyFind comes in… an online platform that uses sophisticated algorithms, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to digest and analyse vast amounts of housing and

financial data to help investors make the right investment decisions fast.

Already used by professional property buying companies (including real estate funds and government bodies) to find thousands of properties a day, SimplyFind helps cut through hours of wasted time, scrolling through property portals and automatically sifts data from hundreds of sources (including Land Registry, the Planning Portal, the national EPC Register etc.) to help quickly, short-list properties that meet their investment criteria, and steal a march on securing property for their portfolios.

SimplyFind is now available to individual property investors to run the same property, financial and market analysis that professional investors undertake every day, and all at the click of a (few) button(s).

50% discount on first 3 months subscription

Discount code: Martin23

www.simplyphi.co.uk/simplyfind Call Claire Webb on 01932 972 100

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Property Analysis

Market Analysis

The first stage of analysis is looking at the physical property itself. You will want to know how long a property has been on the market, has there been any price movements, EPC levels (costs to upgrade), planning history, valuation, condition, proximity to nearest GP, square meterage, leasehold/freehold, lease length… the list goes on.

Finally, SimplyFind enables you to look at the macro (and micro) market conditions of your chosen properties.

All of these criteria and more, are immediately available to assess, filter and search against on hundreds of thousands of properties in SimplyFind, instantly.

Search & Analyse Properties ★ Time on market ★ Discounts to asking price

This means understanding historical movements in pricing, rentals, difference between asking and achieved pricing, yield analysis, comparison to adjacent markets, etc.

Using heat mapping technologies and advance data analysis, SimplyFind’s data scientists are able to predict future market trends, including anticipate price growth, how hot or cold a market is and the potential longer-term strength or weakness of that market. Giving you all the information, you need to finalise your decision to make an investment.

★ EPC levels

Market Analysis

★ Commuting distances

★ Changes in asking prices

★ Planning history

★ Movement in rents

★ Places of interest

★ Yield hot-spots ★ Areas with best discounts ★ Pace of market activity ★ Speed properties sell

Financial Analysis Once you’ve found the right properties you will need to run your financial appraisals and sensitivity analyses, which are the cornerstone to assessing the financial viability of potential investments ensuring they will generate the ROI (Return on Investment) that you are seeking.

HMOs A quick word on HMOs (Houses of Multiple Occupation)

SimplyFind allows you to search, list and analyse properties against yields, live market rents, affordable or customised rents, instant comparables (sold and still on the market), stamp duty calculators, properties with the biggest discounts… the list goes on.

SimplyFind has a standalone HMO module that identifies properties best suited, and most likely to achieve HMO status, including running financial analysis on a room-by-room basis, a National Space Standards calculator and a digital library of all Article 4 areas (legally restricted HMO areas) across the country.

Analyse Financial Metrics

Find and Analyse HMOs

★ Net yields & ROIs

★ Article 4 restrictions

★ Multiple rent models

★ Live shared-room rates

★ Stamp Duty calculations

★ National Space Standards

★ Cost of works

★ Maximising Yield

★ Comparables (past & current)

★ Nearby HMOs

★ Utilities & Licences

★ Planning approvals

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PROPERTY

Bricks, Mortar

and Money

They say the property market is always a good investment, but here are some essential tips for keeping on top of the volatile situation

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nvestment in property can be relatively short-term, say if you are buying at auction, renovating a home and ‘flipping’ it for a fairly fast profit. But in many cases, a property investment is a long-term proposition, and there it is a lot more diff icult to know if you are making the right decisions with your money.

The buy-to-let market, once the favoured area for property investment, is now looking less attractive, with tax law changes and rising mortgage rates making many landlord decide to sell up and get out of the market. At the same time, renting has become cheaper than holding a mortgage in some areas, so the market for first-time buyers has slowed down.

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So where in the property market should you be putting your money?

PORTFOLIO The main thing to bear in mind is that investing in property does not necessarily mean buying a building. You can invest more indirectly, in such a way that your risks are reduced.

There are many types of straightforward property purchase, including:  Property development  Commercial property  Buy to Let  Buying a new build ‘off-plan’ to sell on  Property abroad

But an alternative is to put money into an investment trust, property bonds, or shares in listed property companies, so you don’t own any property directly, but can profit from the appreciation of value of property in which you own a stake.

Bear in mind that you have to calculate exactly how much you can afford before you go into any property investment.

There are costs concerned with any property purchase, and failing to take these into account could leave you out of pocket. These can include:  Solicitor’s fees  Estate agency fees  Land Registry fees  Surveys

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 Mortgage fees  Stamp duty  Insurance Types of investment such as shares and pooled funds can allow you to invest in property indirectly with a lower initial outlay.

times the cost of the mortgage, it can be hard to predict whether you will get that sort of return in the long term. Areas and types of property go in and out of fashion, and even the best informed rental agent is not able to predict the future.

The important part of guaranteeing a return on a property investment is finding the right property. For rental property, for instance, there is always a high demand from students in college or university areas. If you want more long-term, professional tenants, look for properties in the commuter belts. For families, being near shops, schools and other facilities can also add value to a property. Research into these matters always pays off! ■

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REITS AND WRONGS If you wish to spread your bet a little, rather than investing in your own property, you can put money into a REIT. A real estate investment trust, or REIT, enables investors to pool their resources, which investment managers then use to buy assets. The investment trust owns or finances incomegenerating properties, and stocks are publicly traded, so they are easy to invest in and are highly liquid. The stocks are registered for special status to acquire certain tax advantages (such as not having to pay UK corporation tax), and usually sign their tenants to longterm leases, so their income tends to be quite reliable. This income is shared out to investors in the form of dividend payments.

In the UK, REITs tend to focus on one specific type of property segment, but some offer a mixture of real estate classes, such as retail properties, office blocks, industrial spaces, healthcare properties, warehouses and distribution complexes and data centres. This can provide the added protection some investors seek through diversification.

IMAGES: Dreamstime

RISKS A long-term investment will increase your chance of making a profit, but as we have seen, the fluctuations in the market make this a less certain investment. Apart from normal variations, specific problems can arise with particular buildings – for instance the cladding issue has led to many properties falling in value while the rest of the housing stock soars.

It’s good advice to spread your risk by having a mixture of investment including property. If you have money in savings

accounts, ISAs, Premium Bonds or elsewhere, calculate the income from them carefully before you decide whether to transfer their value to a property investment.

Bear in mind that if you need to take out a mortgage to invest in a property, part of your savings could be taken up by a deposit. The higher the deposit you are able to find, the cheaper the mortgage rate you should be able to obtain. Work out what the loan to value (LTV) would be if you bought properties at different prices, and use mortgage comparison sites to see the deals that would be available to you and how much they would cost in repayments. Remember that buyto-let mortgages are usually taken out on an interest-only repayment basis, and may involve set-up fees.

While the rental income of a buy-to-let property should be around 1.25 to 1.45

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RENTERS REFORM BILL IS NOT THE ANSWER The focus of the Renters Reform Bill - brought to Parliament on 17th May 2023 was anticipated to change the way landlords can regain possession of their property. Head of Landlord and Tenant at Dutton Gregory Solicitors agrees reform is necessary, but that this Bill in its current form is not the answer.

Gina Peters has specialised in residential landlord and tenant law for 22 years. She regularly advises clients through disputes under the Housing Act 1988 and 1996, Housing Act 2004, Deregulation Act 2015 and Housing and Planning Act 2016 – and now the 2023 Renters Reform Bill.

‘With one in five households now renting, the private rented sector is an essential part of the housing market,’ she explains. ‘As the government has reduced its housebuilding strategy for all local authorities from mandatory to advisory, with some councils scrapping targets all together, the housing market is shrinking in relative terms. With fewer houses being built, and no Help to Buy scheme, more renters will be stuck renting for longer.

Meanwhile, the Renters Reform Bill – which creates a big change to the way landlords can regain possession of their properties – is being brought in at a time when some are already looking at selling their buy to let portfolios.

‘Whilst there is widespread support for raising the standards of private rented properties, interestingly the Decent Home Standard is notable for its omission within the Bill. The latest tranche of regulation and rules however are a step too far for some landlords. Recently, the sector has become a target for the press on the basis that a minority of landlords cause problems for tenants in the lack of care for their properties and the people they house. However, rented

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properties create independent living for millions – and contribute hugely to the British economy – so, we need a piece of legislation that works with landlords, rather than against them.

‘There is a very real danger that this Bill will be the last straw for landlords and there will be an exodus from the sector, with many more previously let properties being put up for sale. This will add to the already shrinking housing stock available to rent, and consequently with rental properties in high demand, rents could continue to surge.

‘Over the years, landlords have faced increasing demand to improve their stock and make it safer for tenants.

That is no bad thing, but the higher cost of living affects everyone – including landlords. As interest rates continue to rise and impact mortgage repayments, the investment within the rented sector and the yield available – following the required improvements – is shrinking. Further effective lobbying is clearly needed on the details and implications of this Bill if it is to benefit all parties, otherwise securing a rented property is going to become much harder.

‘Even once the changes to the reforms are finalised and in place, what the Bill really needs to address is the infrastructure for landlords seeking possession of their properties for genuine reasons. Default in rental payments as debt rises, rising antisocial behaviour and a need to sell the property to realise the capital, are some of those reasons. All the rules can be in place, and are currently, but without a court system that works to support such situations, landlords will continue to feel persecuted by a broken system and this will not improve the current housing crisis.’

For more information on investment properties, visit www.duttongregory.co.uk or contact Gina at g.peters@duttongregory.co.uk

18/09/2023 09:47

YOUR PARTNER IN PROPERTY • Residential Property • Buying and Selling • Landlord Support • Lease Extensions • Property Disputes • Block Management • Equity Release Offices in Hampshire, Dorset, Surrey, London and Merseyside.

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PROPERTY

Managing Property Disputes One of the certainties of managing property is that you will run into legal disputes. We look at some of the common problems and how professionals can help

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f you owner a property or portfolio it is essential to understand the extent of your rights and obligations.

Property disputes of some kind are almost inevitable, and though they can be frustrating and expensive to resolve, you will certainly need professional help and advice, as ignoring the situation or trying to put it right yourself will almost certainly make things worse.

“The majority of conflict between our clients and their tenants is rent arrears,” says Gina Peters, Head of the specialist Landlord and Tenant team at Dutton

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Gregory Solicitors. ‘The cost of living crisis has impacted both tenants’ ability to pay and landlords’ resilience as they cope with high interest rates and tax increases.

The other common issue is landlords and agents struggling to gain access to properties to fulfil legal obligations such as gas safety checks.”

“We are taking a lot of enquiries from landlords who have been blindsided with letters, surveyor reports and schedules of works from no-win, no-fee solicitors under the housing disrepair protocol, demanding damages for tenants. Claims

and counterclaims involving damp and mould continue to be a ‘hot-button issue’ with government guidance published in September very much giving landlords the responsibility to resolve any problems.”

Let’s look at some of the other property management problems commonly encountered by landlords.

BOUNDARIES This type of dispute commonly arises between owners or occupiers of neighbouring properties, and typically involves one party erecting a fence, hedge

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IMAGES: Dreamstime

or wall which a neighbour claims infringes their property. These disputes can often be resolved by referring to deeds or plans, and mediation is often an affordable alternative to expensive litigation.

MISREPRESENTATION Buying a property can be an extremely stressful business, and there are financial risks involved in taking on a property which may have faults or legal entanglements which are not immediately obvious. It is your responsibility as a purchaser to make all of the necessary checks and enquiries on a property, before you buy it, and your conveyancing solicitor will advise you to have a full building survey and legal check done on the property before you purchase.

The problem arises when information provided by the seller proves to be misleading. If this appears to be deliberate, there is a case for misrepresentation. The seller’s property information form and replies to enquiries form part of the contract between you and the seller, so it is a breach of contract if they knowingly misrepresent any of the answers on the form.

If your surveyor failed to notice issues, particularly if they relate to its condition, you may have a potential professional negligence claim against the surveyor.

NUISANCE Broadly speaking nuisance claims can be divided into two categories: Private, which refers to an interference with the use or enjoyment of land, usually by noise, smell or any physical damage made to property, such as sewage leaking or loud music; and Public, an unlawful act or omission so widespread that it obstructs, damages or inconveniences the rights of the community as a whole, such as obstructing the highway, sewage leaking into rivers, or chemicals emanating from factories.

RIGHT OF WAY Another common source of disputes between neighbours involves use of a shared driveway, parking spaces, building works which interfere with light enjoyed by your property, or access via a neighbour’s land to reach yours.

A right of way is usually granted by a deed that should specify the extent and route of the right of way.

BREACH OF COVENANT A covenant is a rule affecting the way a property can be used. Covenants are usually written into the title deeds when a property is built, and restrictive covenants, as the name suggests, restrict you from

doing or allowing certain things on your property. Common examples include not being allowed to keep animals, to sublet the property, or to remove or alter internal walls. These should be flagged by your conveyancer.

PARTY WALLS Under the Party Wall Act, a party wishing to carry out works on, or adjacent to, a party wall must serve a notice in accordance with the Act. Where a party carrying out the works does not comply with the provisions of the Act this can give rise to claims in trespass and/or breach of statutory duty.

A typical example is where the owner of a semi-detached home wishes to carry out a loft extension, which would have a party wall with their neighbour.

ADVERSE POSSESSION Otherwise known as ‘squatter’s rights’, adverse possession is where a person seeks to claim title to registered land by virtue of their having been in possession of the same land for more than 10 years. The process of obtaining a property by adverse possession is rarely straightforward!

If these or any other property disputes arise, your first step should be to speak to a legal professional – it’s the safest way! ■

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Just the Essentials If you are letting a property, the responsibilities can multiply. Wouldn’t it be nice to have someone to take on those essential services?

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f you invest in a rental property, you will pretty soon realise that it isn’t just a matter of finding tenants, sitting back and watching the money come flooding in. As a landlord there are statutory duties you have to perform, as well as all the little things that you have to do to make your property desirable, such as cleaning it between tenants.

All these responsibilities can take up time and money, and (particularly if you have a portfolio of properties) can become a drag on your resources. Fortunately there are specialists who can take on these burdens for you, freeing up your time and resources to concentrate on more profitable pursuits.

hours a day for your tenants. In fact you don’t even have to be available to your service provider; they can often use email contacts or web-based systems to keep you informed at weekends or holidays.

SAFETY But the most vital area in which a lettings service provider can keep you covered is in the legally required reports and checks, such as gas safety inspections and servicing, electrical wiring reports, PAT testing of appliances, and specialist property reports, usually carried out by registered and approved contractors. In many cases these reports can also be arranged via a website, with the service provider dealing with the tenants and providing the necessary paperwork on completion, so your effort is kept to the minimum. ■

IMAGES: Dreamstime

SERVICES Probably one of the most time-consuming and expensive duties, if you end up

handling the work personally, is basic maintenance. A leaking pipe, broken window or jamming door can take up your time, even if it’s only finding a tradesman to do the actual work. A lettings servicing specialist will take on these basic jobs such as plumbing, decorating, electrical work, heating, carpentry and sundry odd jobs, freeing you up to do other things.

If you choose to pay for a premium service, you can even opt for 24-hour cover for emergencies such as flooding, blocked drains, electrical failure, water supply problems, storm damage or access problems; no more having to turn out in the middle of the night to sort out a tenant’s problems with locks, heating or plumbing.

The service provider will track and monitor each job so you know when it has been completed and you can tick it off your list, and you don’t have to be available 24

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Who Are Everything Lettings Ltd ?

Unlike other companies who have diversified to offer services within the property industry, we have firsthand experience from working with and using our own services and products, meaning that we not only completely understand how your business is run and the constraints on your time, but also how important providing a prompt service is to maintaining exemplary relationships with Landlords and Tenants.

At Everything Lettings Ltd we say, “No job is too big for us, and no jobs are too small”, why? because we have the capability, the staff, and appropriate contractors to commit 100% to the maintenance aspect of the property industry. Whether its planned or emergency maintenance, Landlords legal requirements like Gas Safety Inspections, EPC’S, Electrical Wiring Reports and specialist property reports.

Out Of Hours Emergency Cover We even remain open when your offices are closed.

Our OOH solution helps lettings professionals provide a duty of care for tenants and Landlords whilst increasing a much-needed work-life balance.

Once in place we can guarantee your properties will be looked after Monday to Thursday from 5pm - 9am and from Friday at 5pm through to Monday at 9am (including weekend and all bank holidays) Our specialised call handling service is manned by highly trained and experienced property management professionals. We believe this expertise is vital when determining if a contractor is required to attend or not, as we do not like to incur cost for our clients if they can be avoided. On all calls, we can provide an update of the call via our web-based portal 24/7/365, messages left are forwarded on via e-mail in MP3 recording to be listened to the following working day so our clients can really switch off.

www.everything-lettings.co.uk T: 0203 031 6236 E: orders@everything-lettings.co.uk

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TRANSFORMING YOUR PROPERTY? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! Don’t forget to take out renovation insurance it will protect your investment and provide peace of mind during unexpected setbacks or damage.

Contact us today to find the right Renovation Insurance plan for your needs. Visit our website at www.renovationplan.co.uk or call us on 01621 784840.

Renovation Plan is a trading name of Howden UK Brokers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 307663.

Registered in England and Wales under company registration number 02831010.

Registered Office: One Creechurch Place, London, EC3A 5AF. Calls may be monitored and recorded for quality assurance purposes.

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Protecting Your Property It’s not always understood that building work and renovation needs special insurance protection

IMAGES: Dreamstime

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ost of us realise that it’s desirable to have property insurance (in fact it’s often tied in with a mortgage), along with insurance for personal possessions, and perhaps additional covers like water pipe insurance. But did you know that it’s often necessary to have specific insurance for building works?

Whether you are building an extension, fitting a kitchen or converting a loft, you can’t assume that the work and any risks involved will be covered by your domestic insurance policy. While a professional builder’s insurance policy will cover you in some cases, you may find yourself seriously out of pocket should anything go wrong – a burst pipe, an injury on the job, thefts from a building site and so on.

Specialist insurance companies can tailor a policy to your specific needs – there will be special ones for new builds or self-

build projects, for instance. More common is the sort of home or commercial renovation insurance which would include conversion work such as on barns, basements and lofts, and the building of extensions.

RENOVATIONS Renovation work requiring special insurance could even be something as relatively minor as replacing internal doors or kitchen fitments. The materials involved could be expensive, and it’s unlikely that your domestic insurance would cover them, while a renovation policy would.

More substantial renovations, such as removing internal walls, replacing windows, converting basements or repairing roofs will certainly not be covered by domestic insurance, and will need a special renovation policy which will cover not only your existing building and the new structure, but also your neighbours’ properties.

Other factors to consider when embarking on a renovation project include whether you will have to move out of the property while the work is done. A standard domestic insurance policy might not cover an empty building, so you may need cover from a renovation policy for this too.

Renovation insurance policies are commonly offered at a number of levels depending on the size of the job and the risk involved. If you are using multiple contractors, it’s often a comfort to know that you have a single policy in place, rather than having to deal with each contractor’s individual insurer.

Cost, of course, is dependent on the length, complexity and cost of the project, and you can sometimes get a partial refund if a project finishes early - so get in touch with a specialist renovation insurer before you embark on the work - you know it makes sense! ■

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TRUST THE TICK WITH NAPIT Do you know the dangers of using unregulated tradespeople in your home? You could incur unexpected costs and face many issues – so make sure you and your home insurance policy are protected.

Using a NAPIT-certified, electrical scheme-registered tradesperson to complete your electrical installation work provides you with piece of mind and insurance security.

Recognising Competence A NAPIT-registered tradesperson works to the British Standards for electrical safety (BS 7671) and must meet strict entry requirements including qualifications, skills, experience and knowledge whilst having the relevant insurance policies in place. They can selfcertify and provide Building Regulations Compliance Certificates where work is notifiable under regulations and are regularly assessed to ensure ongoing competency.

NAPIT members are committed to quality, safety and customer care and are kept up to date with all the latest health and safety regulations.

The NAPIT search facility makes it easier for you to find a local, qualified, competent tradesperson

Searching for Success The NAPIT search facility takes the hassle out of searching for a trustworthy tradesperson and finds members close to you, you can filter by postcode, type of work and trade and find a suitable tradesperson in your local area.

For landlords, sub-standard work not only risks the integrity of your property and puts your tenants in danger, but in England you could also receive fines of up to £30,000 if the electrical safety standards of your property are not met.

Installers require assessments and certification before they are approved by the NAPIT tick

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Using an Electrical Inspector listed on the NAPIT Electrical Inspector Scheme gives you the confidence that the person undertaking the electrical inspection and testing of your electrical installation satisfies the ‘competent and qualified’ requirement of the Regulations in England, Scotland and Wales.

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The NAPIT Landlords and Electrical Inspectors Guidance for the Private Rented Sector (PRS) is a guide wrote by NAPIT technical experts to help Landlords and Electrical Inspectors understand Legislation governing electrical safety checks within dwellings in England, which came into force 1st June 2020.

NAPIT is one of the leading Government authorised and United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accredited membership scheme operators in the building services and fabric sector.

There are currently more than 17,000 NAPIT registered installers in the electrical, heating, plumbing, ventilation & air-conditioning, microgeneration and building fabric trades across the UK domestic, commercial, and industrial markets.

Schemes, Skills and Certification In line with the Government’s Heat and Building Strategy and Net Zero Strategy, NAPIT work as a third-party certification body for MCS (Microgeneration Certificate Scheme), installers of low-carbon energy technologies, such as a Solar PV, Battery Storage and Heat Pumps.

Consumers can benefit from Government incentives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), and Energy Company Obligation (ECO), by using a NAPIT registered installer.

We also work closely with TrustMark, a government endorsed scheme that covers various trades carrying out repair, maintenance, and improvement work in and around the home.

To find a competent tradesperson near you, visit:

https://search.napit.org.uk Visit www.napit.org.uk to find out more about NAPIT

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From modern heating to alternative Christmas trees, the latest products and style ideas for your home

REPORT SAYS TO ABOLISH ENERGY PRICE CAP

The energy price cap set by regulator OFGEM is not working in favour of customers, says a report – instead it is ‘costing people money and boosting inflation’.

The energy price cap – which sets a limit on the price per energy unit, not on customers’ bills – was introduced by market regulator OFGEM in 2019, with the intention of providing energy cost protection for 11 million customers on poor value ‘default tariffs’. But a new report by a centre-right think-tank, the Centre for Policy Studies (CPS) says that the cap has outlived its usefulness, and is now serving only to stifle competition in the energy retail market by acting as a de facto regulated price.

The CPS report says in part: “For almost two years almost all tariffs have been priced at or just below the capped level, with no evidence this will change in the near future – meaning the government is effectively setting the market price for energy and eliminating any chance of customers switching to a better deal.”

It likens the current energy price cap to a wartime measure, and suggests that a ‘peacetime’ regulatory regime would allow more competition, and hence lower prices. The same point was made as far back as 2017, when energy provider Centrica said that “a cap on all default tariffs would run excessive risks of undermining the competitive process, likely resulting in worse outcomes for customers in the long run.”

However, the argument only works where there is true competition in the market. In the UK, a ‘big six’ of energy suppliers dominates the market, and many smaller companies went to the wall after recent rises in wholesale gas costs made their business models unviable.

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ALTERNATIVE TREES If you’re the type who starts thinking about Christmas in September, you will already have made plans for your Christmas tree. If your old faithful is looking tatty but you can’t cope with a real tree, there are some stylish artificial alternatives from www.coxandcox.co.uk.

These “alternative” Christmas Trees are excellent for those short on space, for those who fancy a second tree in another room, or for those who simply want something a little bit different. The range includes realistic looking miniature versions of beautiful trees from wintery Pencil Pines and Alpine Firs to more delicate Eucalyptus and Olive trees, each with a delicate dusting of light snow. For those seeking a more contemporary look there are metal trees which create a real statement silhouette in any interior.

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Home Trends

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Removal Essentials The British Association of Removers (BAR) provides essential services to consumers and removal companies. BAR accredits removal firms, offers advice, resolves disputes, and provides financial protection for consumers.

For removal companies, BAR establishes industry standards, promotes professionalism, facilitates networking and enhances credibility.

In summary, BAR plays a crucial role in the removals industry by ensuring quality and professionalism for all. bar.co.uk

Heat for All

Beautiful Windows The Sash Window Workshop are timber window specialists, offering an installation service in London and Southern England, with supply only nationwide. Their timber windows are designed to improve energy efficiency, while retaining the beauty and design of traditional windows.

With almost 150 years of expertise in the heating industry, Vaillant prides itself on manufacturing innovative heating solutions for all types of properties. From traditional gas boilers to climate-friendly heat pumps, smart controls and accessories, Vaillant products are designed to be highly efficient and most importantly, easy to use, providing home heating and comfort across the UK and Europe. www.vaillant.co.uk

www.sashwindow.com

Renewable Heating From flats to detached houses, Ecodan air source heat pumps are the renewable, low carbon alternative to traditional high carbon heating systems. This reliable heating technology delivers highly efficient sustainable space heating and hot water all year round. Ecodan heat pumps are one of the most advanced heating systems available for homeowners.

Our heat pumps upgrade freely available heat energy from the air and transfers to your home to provide heating and hot water. ecodan.me.uk/PH10

Instant Boiling

Exotic Tastes Foco canned beverages are made with premium quality Asian fruits, herbs and nutritious vegetables.

Exotic and refreshing, this range of Thai soft drinks are exported around the world and are rapidly gaining popularity in the UK. chadhaorientalfoods.co.uk/ brands/foco

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Billi Taps supply superior instant boiling, chilled, and sparkling water all from a single dispenser. The systems utilise advanced filtration, removing impurities from water.

In addition, Billi’s Heat Exchange Technology reduces electricity usage, recycling the heat generated to pre-heat the boiling water dispensed. When you install a Billi tap, you’re not only promoting a healthier lifestyle, you’re becoming part of the sustainability change. www.billi-uk.com

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The Great Boiler Fiasco Can the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme succeed?

Experienced heating engineers see problems ahead

I

n a bid to make expensive heating technology more accessible to homeowners, the government has launched a new Boiler Upgrade Scheme which is set to help thousands of Brits get a grant of up to £7,500 for a boiler upgrade which aims to encourage more households to replace older gasfired boilers with energy-eff icient electric heat pumps.

The government has made £150m per year available to fund the scheme, equivalent to roughly 30,000 vouchers.

However, the typical heat pump costs £13,000 to install before any grant, meaning that heat pumps still remain out of reach for a majority of households.

Clive Holland - broadcaster on Fix

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Radio (www.fixradio.co.uk), the UK’s only national radio station dedicated to tradespeople - discussed with heating engineers, John Cruikshank and Simon Poskett, the impact the new scheme is set to have on Brits across the country and the future of the construction industry.

John Cruickshank said: “By 2025, no new house builds would have a gas boiler installed. By 2035, the manufacturers of gas boilers will cease manufacture – you’ll still be able to get the parts for years to come, but they will cease manufacture. I believe this is all about to change.

MIXED “This is concerning for us tradespeople, there are many mixed signals coming

out of the powers to be and us guys on the ground doing the job day to day. We don’t know where we stand. Do we look into renewable technology? Do we stay as we are?

“Scrapping oil boilers is now being pushed back from 2026 to a date we don’t know. The pressure is coming from everybody who pays big taxes, like the big oil giants. The condensing boiler was launched in 2006 which was supposed to be the answer to our energy crisis. We have an energy wastage problem because we were categorising boilers we shouldn’t have been as condensing.

“The renewable heating scheme was scrapped by the boiler upgrade scheme – I’ve had a client ring me up requesting

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IMAGES: Dreamstime; Fix Radio

a boiler upgrade thinking she needs a heat pump. Even the name is confusing, it doesn’t mean you’ll get a new boiler, it means you could get a voucher or a grant towards a heat pump.

RENEWABLES “Many tradespeople are put off by going down this road because doors just seem to be closing at every chance because nobody knows what’s going on. I say tradespeople should go down the route of renewables, as it will be a big part of our heating and hot water. It’s not the magic bullet that we’re all looking for, but with the energy crisis and living standards, it’s very diff icult. I don’t know how the government will get 150,000 heat pump engineers trained in time to fit the 600,000 they want because there is no direction.

“The government initially said if you have a level two qualification in plumbing and water rigs, you could fit a heat pump, yet it took me 18 months to two years to train in heat pumps.

“These are issues we should have been talking about 20 years ago but we’ve now come to a point where we’re approaching deadlines which keep getting pushed

back. The government never seems to consider the people who are actually on the ground who carry out this work.”

Simon Poskett commented: “The numbers in the first year, going into the second, are disappointing with the uptake in the amount of vouchers. I think it’s a third of the vouchers that were available every year were paid out which could be due to the cost of living crisis. The people who are purchasing heat pumps are what we could call the able-to-pay market.

There’s more incentive needed for people who are struggling.

“Now, obviously improving heat loss is going to improve your energy bill and usage no end, whatever your fuel source.

Better windows, draft proofing, and loft insulations, for instance, are very diff icult and expensive to do and probably don’t give you a payback. Most houses in the UK are sub 10-kilowatt heat loss.

We’re coming from a world where we’ve massively oversized combi boilers to provide hot water and it’s easy to heat a house with a massive combi boiler. I appreciate smaller houses are diff icult to do, as legislation prevents us from putting the heat pump outside. The planning

rules are at least 10 years old and really need re-evaluating. We have an advisory team talking to all the right people, but it’s a slow ship to turn around and get legislation through.

EFFICIENT “Currently the voucher scheme offers £5,000 for air source pumps and £6,000 for ground source heat pumps, which is a woefully low figure for ground source because of the capital expenditure involved in installing such technology.

Now, depending on the house, on average it will cost about £12,000 for a well-performing eff icient system, then subtracting the £5000, still leaves you with a heft y cost.

“The legislation and policy really need a clear direction which we still don’t have. Companies aren’t investing, mainly because of the greener policy being kicked into the long grass. There is a very large workforce out there that is currently doing gas, but the training is needed for heat pumps because they’re a very different beast. We’ve got over 15,000 heating installers now, we’re right at the start of the journey.” ■

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WHAT MATTERS THE MOST AND COSTS THE LEAST IS HAVING A SAFE AND SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME IF YOU’RE MOVING, LOOK FOR THE BADGE! The British Association of Removers (BAR) has been providing membership to the most professional and qualified removal companies in the UK for over 100 years.

People using BAR Members for removals or storage do so in the knowledge that they can expect complete transparency chosen service provider, together with excellence delivery.

Why choose a BAR Member for a safe move?

1. Professionalism BAR Members are subject to an intensive annual inspection to ensure they continue to meet the required level of professionalism and service demanded of our Members, including adhering to our Code of Practice.

2. Payment protection If a BAR Member requires monies to be paid in advance, which is standard industry practice, you are protected by BAR’s Advanced Payment Guarantee Scheme.

3. Peace of mind In the unlikely event that a dispute arises with your chosen Member, there is a defined procedure in place to resolve the situation, through our FREE and independent Dispute Resolution Service.

Key action points to consider well in advance of your completion date: For a successful and smooth completion, planning in advance is key. BAR Members can have limited availability, especially in the busier summer months. Make sure your chosen Member is aware of your plans to avoid any unnecessary stress later on.

Our Members carry out more than 280,000 UK home moves in the UK alone every year so, if you’re moving, look for the badge!

• Contact your BAR Member(s) for quotes and availability a month in advance of your likely moving date. We advise getting at least three like-for-like quotes.

• Ask the BAR Member for packing costs. As trained professionals, they’ll pack better and far quicker than you can.

• Notify all relevant organisations that you’re moving inform them of the moving date and forwarding address.

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Moving With Confidence Moving house is one of life’s most stressful events – don’t make it worse by compromising on your moving company

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provides membership to suitable removal companies in the UK, so their performance can be regulated and improved with the needs of the customer in mind. BAR Members are expected to provide complete transparency and a high level of service throughout.

SETTING THE BAR Where BAR Members take money in advance of a move - which is standard industry practice - you are protected by BAR’s Advanced Payment Guarantee. In the rare event that, for instance, a BAR member experienced financial difficulties and is unable to carry out your move, that advanced payment will be protected by BAR. For further peace of mind should a dispute arise with the mover there is a defined procedure in place to rectify the

situation, through a free and independent Dispute Resolution Service.

The BAR scheme isn’t just a pay-as-yougo membership - to become a Member, a removal company has to prove that it can meet the high standards of the BAR Code of Practice. This includes an annual audit to make sure they continue to meet membership criteria. There is also a monitoring system run by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) to ensure that BAR Members operate as they should do, in the interests of their customers.

BAR even has European and Overseas members should you be planning a move further afield.

To check if a remover is a BAR member, look for the BAR and CTSI logos, visit the BAR website at https://bar.co.uk, or call 01923 699 480. ■

IMAGES: Dreamstime

hen you are young, maybe moving into your first flat, the process of moving home can be fairly straightforward – just chuck your clothes in a rucksack and your laptop in a courier bag. But as you get older and accumulate more stuff – furniture, crockery, children and so on – moving home can become an ordeal. That’s why your mate Dave or the local ‘man in a van’ may no longer be up to the job.

All sorts of problems may arise when dealing with a removals company – for instance if they take payment in advance then don’t turn up, or if items are damaged or lost in transit. For those and many other reasons it makes sense to look for a mover which is a member of the British Association of Removers.

Established for 100 years, the BAR

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HOME

Save Your Furniture!

Don’t chuck out your old furniture – think about restoring it by refurbishing or recovering. You’ll save money and help save the planet

IMAGES: Dreamstime

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uality furniture can be expensive and is often made to order, so it’s no wonder that many people save time and money by going for inexpensive, self-assembly items. But these are often hard to repair or recycle, made of materials such as veneered particle board, and when reaching the end of its short life often ends up as landfill. So what is ‘fast furniture’ doing to the planet?

According to the North London Waste Authority, 22 million pieces of furniture are discarded each year in the UK, and the majority of this furniture is sent directly to landfill. “It’s just not good enough quality.

The furniture design industry has gone the

way of the fashion industry,” says circular design specialist Katie Treggiden, whose book Broken: Mending and Repair in a Throwaway World (Ludion; £35) proposes the act of furniture repair as a powerful tool in the battle against ditch-it culture.

In as little as a generation, she says, we have lost both the ability and appetite to fix. Indeed in a 2018 survey, the North London Waste Authority found fewer than one in 10 of us attempt to repair broken or damaged furniture.

“People will get rid of something like a sofa because of one little stain – maybe the kids spilled something,” says Henrik Taudorf Lorensen, who founded Danish furniture brand TAKT almost five years ago.

“Unless you’ve bought an expensive piece and are willing to take the added expense of getting it repaired by a specialist, you’re throwing it out.”

Part of the blame for this state of affairs lies with designers and manufacturers who make items hard to disassemble, or don’t provide spare parts, so it’s harder to repair items and you are more likely to buy a new one. TAKT’s furniture is designed so you can buy and fit a new armrest or back-piece, so the item doesn’t have to be thrown out just because one piece is worn. Design and manufacture are equally important to TAKT; no glue is used and there are no composite materials, so there are no problems with recycling. »

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BUYBACK Other companies are operating buyback schemes - Skinflint, a Cornwall-based lighting reclaim company, will buy back its products for 50 per cent of their value, restore them and sell them again. It’s this form of circular thinking that more furniture manufacturers need to adopt.

Even IKEA has introduced a Buyback & Resell scheme, as part of a bold pledge to run a circular business by 2030. It has also started giving advice on how to disassemble its most popular furniture designs, and John Lewis has promised to have “buy back or take back” schemes for every product category by 2025.

But everyone can do their bit in the fight against ‘fast furniture’ by upcycling older pieces. This works particularly well for solid wood furniture, where the quality of the original wood may be hidden by layers of dirty or flaky paint.

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1. Clean Wipe down to remove dust and cobwebs, then clean thoroughly. Use paint stripper to remove old paint 2. Repair Replace any missing screws, fill holes with wood filler and reglue loose joints 3. Surface Prepare the surface for paint by sanding, either by hand or using a small power tool. Sand in the direction of the grain.

Use goggles and breathing masks when sanding. Remove dust with white spirit.

Leave a rough surface (‘keying’) so the new paint will stick 4. Repaint Use a suitable non-toxic paint such as ‘chalk’ paint. Be imaginative – try painting drawers a different colour to chests, for instance. Wax or varnish to protect the finish

RECYCLING If you must get rid of old furniture, you should recyle it rather than dumping it.

Wooden and metal furniture can be recycled, but first of all ask yourself if your furniture is in reusable condition? If it is, then you could donate it to a local charity through furnituredonationnetwork.org.

Wooden furniture can be recycled at your local reycling centre, though furniture made out of leather or synthetic materials cannot be recycled.

To dispose of bulky waste items like a sofa or mattress try the Furniture Donation Network’s Bulky Waste service. You can also find details of local bulky waste disposal services at www.gov.uk/ collection-large-waste-items.

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5. Upgrade New knobs and handles can make all the difference to an upcycled piece

Plumbs Plumbs is a family business with over 60 years’ experience in revitalising furniture and windows. We transform home interiors with bespoke furniture coverings, curtains, blinds and accessories. We offer a free inhome consultation with a home interiors expert and full customer service support throughout the home re-styling process. There may be years left in your old or worn-out furniture - our reupholstery service or hand tailored covers will rejuvenate it, giving it a whole new lease of life.

Bespoke furniture covers are our most popular recovering option. All cover styles are fully made-to-measure to fit your own piece of furniture. Individually hand made from quality upholstery weight fabrics they are easy to remove and refit. Most cover fabrics are machine washable and we also have a range of stain resistant fabrics ensuring your covers stay looking new.

Our reupholstery service is delivered through our time-served reupholsterers who are skilled in all aspects of the process. We strip furniture right back to the frame, make repairs and tighten joints where necessary and then immense care is taken to reupholster your choice of fabric onto your furniture maintaining original features including button backs and studded work.

With over 800 fabric designs and colours to choose from we can complete your home re-vamp with coordinating made-to-measure curtains and blinds.

View our full fabric range at plumbs.co.uk where up to five free fabric samples can be ordered and a free in-home visit can be requested.

IMAGES: Dreamstime

But it’s not just wooden furniture that can be rescued by upcycling. Even upholstered items can be saved by recovering. A basic move is to recover simply by putting new fabric over the old fabric. You can do this with loose covers, or made-to-measure.

When you reupholster an item, on the other hand, you completely replace the fabric and possibly install new foam or other inserts, so this is normally done to order by professionals.

A basic “whack and tack” job, where you’re just pulling fabric around a surface wrapped in padding and stapling it in place, is a great place to start - dining room chairs with drop seats are a fairly manageable reupholstering project for beginners. Since the seats are usually square, it only involves figuring out how to fold the corners.

Another fairly easy covering job is a headboard - you can make one by getting a piece of plywood cut to the size, adding padding to it, and wrapping and stapling your fabric around it. A good tip is to avoid using thick fabric like leather and vinyl, because they can be very difficult to fold.

Anything that requires “full upholstery”, such as tub chairs, ottomans, and sofas, is probably too complicated for a beginner to take on – but it’s worth paying for a professional job, as it’s still cheaper than new furniture, and it does help to save the planet! ■

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Traditional Timber Window and Door Specialists Beautiful, high quality windows and doors. Crafted in the UK and designed to complement your period home, while improving energy efficiency.

Obtain a Free, No Obligation Quote

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Modern

Classics

Are traditional sash windows still a good option in these modern, energy-conscious times? They are if you understand their advantages

IMAGES: Dreamstime

S

ash windows are the second most popular variety of window in modern Britain, second only to outwardopening casement windows. A sash window consists of two framed window sashes, one positioned in front of the other (strictly, this is a ‘sliding’ sash window). The window units sit in frames with vertical grooves that allow them to move up and down smoothly without any danger of one frame rubbing against the other and damaging it. The up-and-down movement of the sashes is assisted by counterbalances consisting of weights on cords and pulleys.

The counterbalances can be hidden within the frame or exposed on the inside of the window.

Modern sliding sash windows commonly do not have hinges and offer no outward swing, though there are some models that will tilt to assist cleaning.

Sash windows were very popular in the Victorian era, so they are a natural match for period properties. Historically, sash windows were often made up of small panes joined by ‘glazing bars’. Modern sash windows are more often made of single panes, with glazing bars often on one side only to maintain the classic look.

But do they live up to modern standards of energy efficiency and durability?

The majority of modern sash window are double-glazed, but single-glazed windows or ‘heritage’ glazing is often available where standard double glazing is unlikely to be approved (such as in listed buildings and some conservation areas).

EFFICIENCY Timbers used in modern sash windows are commonly sustainably sourced, and come with an anti-rot guarantee which makes

them comparable in lifetime to PVC units, or better. With the correct draught-proofing, sash windows can also offer excellent soundproofing and energy efficiency.

Aluminium and UPVC sash windows are also available if low maintenance is a priority, though wooden sash windows are also relatively easy to repair and maintain.

Apart from looking good, offering many options for types of fittings, and options such as obscured, bowed or stained glass, sash windows are more secure than casements if you have children in the house - since only one panel can be opened at a time, they’re harder to climb through than casements, and can easily be fitted with child locks.

So, if you have old sash windows in need of replacement, or are thinking that there must be stylish alternatives to the modern casement window, look into sash windows, and you’ll soon see right through them! ■

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Renewable home heating

Na tu rally

Switch from gas, oil or LPG to an Ecodan air source heat pump – the energy-efficient and renewable home heating solution.

There's an Ecodan for every home. ecodan.me.uk/phmr

Government grants available Subject to eligibility.

Full details at ecodan.me.uk/bus

MANUFACTURED

IN THE UK

Renewable Heating Technology

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"Excellent"

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Heating the Future We’ll all be hearing a lot more about heat pumps as the pressure is on to reduce gas use. So how does the technology work?

T

he news recently has been dominated by the price of energy, particularly gas, and with the climate crisis dictating a move away from fossil fuels, it seems that the days of gas as a domestic energy source are numbered. Indeed, no new houses will be built with gas heating, and at some stage (though the date keeps changing), it will become mandatory to replace gas boilers.

But with what?

HEAT One option is the heat pump. There are two main forms of heat pump, Air Source (ASHP) and Ground Source (GSHP).

Heat pumps work similarly to a refrigerator, using a refrigerant liquid to absorb heat then transferring it to another

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medium. The ASHP works by transferring heat absorbed from the outside air to an indoor space. An ASHP can transfer heat directly into rooms through fans, or can be connected to a ‘wet’ (ie water-filled) central heating system to heat radiators and underfloor heating and to provide domestic hot water.

Most heat pumps are placed outside the home - they look like air conditioning units - so they need some clearance from surrounding buildings. Some air source heat pumps can also work as a cooling system in the summer months.

But what about efficiency in the winter?

Air source heat pumps designed for use in the UK can work at temperatures as low as -25 degrees. They can usually be used with any type of heating system, such as

underfloor heating and traditional radiators.

For every one kilowatt of energy it uses, an air source heat pump can create 3 kilowatts of heat energy, making it 300 percent efficient - in comparison, oil and gas are only 90 percent efficient.

EFFICIENCY The main advantage of any kind of heat pump is that it is a low-carbon energy source which would free us from reliance on gas, so there’s no cost for delivering fuel, no storage requirement, and no danger from explosion.

In order to achieve Carbon Net Zero by 2050, the UK government aims to install 19 million heat pumps in new-builds properties.

By using support grants, the aim is to make heat pumps the preferred domestic energy source, and at some stage, gas boilers will be

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IMAGES: Dreamstime

phased out. An International Energy Agency report says that no new gas boilers should be sold after 2025, if Net Zero targets need to be achieved by 2050, but there’s no set date yet on when gas boilers will be banned.

Though heat pumps use electricity to enable energy conversion, they are much cheaper to run than gas, electricity or coal.

Though the initial installation costs could be high, you may receive a grant through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. This £3.9 billion initiative was launched by the government in April 2022, as part of the Heat and Buildings Strategy, and will run until April 2025.

NESTA Charity NESTA, (National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts, www.nesta.org.uk) partnered with the Centre for Net Zero on HeatFlex UK – a project to pilot and develop a trial to investigate heat pump flexibility, consumer preferences and how these are affected by third-party automation and pre-heating.

The report summarised a smallscale pilot used to test and refine “heat pump flexibility intervention” – in other words, NESTA remotely took control of

participants’ heat pumps for short periods of time with the aim of reducing their electricity consumption during a two-hour period, while ensuring participants stayed warm and comfortable by ‘pre-heating’ their home before the peak energy demand period began.

NESTA interviewed participants about their experience of the trial, and used a floor plan of their homes as a prompt for discussion. This gave insights into such as how different insulation levels in parts of the home, placement of the smart thermostat, and their own behaviour could affect the results.

NESTA’s provisional conclusions included: h It was possible to move electricity consumption to different points in the day in a way that participants found acceptable. h 9 out of 10 participants reported that the automation of their heating was acceptable. h The majority of temperatures reported at the end of the pre-heating window were greater than normal thermostat setpoints, suggesting that pre-heating worked.

INSTALLATION An air source heat pump system can take only a couple of days to install and often requires no planning permission. Cost can be anything between £8,000£18,000, depending on the size of property and the application. In either case, to make good energy savings, it’s essential that the property should be fully insulated, particularly the roof. Maintenance is relatively easy, involving checking refrigerant levels, cleaning filters and so on, though it’s worth getting an annual check from a qualified fitter. With proper maintenance a heat pump should last for around 20-25 years.

The findings and provisional conclusions from the pilot come with the strong caveat that the sample size was too small to support generalisable conclusions.

NESTA intends to run a larger trial in winter 2023-2024 which should deliver more robust results. ■

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Render and External Wall Insulation

Loft Insulation

Party Wall Insulation

Private Rented Minimum Efficiency Standards

SPECIALISTS IN ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND PROPERTY IMPROVEMENT

Low to High Rise Flats

Internal Works

External Work

Health & Safety

FRT Property Services, a leading company that specialises in energy efficiency and property improvement. Our mission is to decrease fuel bills, safeguard the environment, and create homes and businesses that are warmer, healthier, and safer for future generations.

Our experienced team evaluates and installs insulation, heating,

and renewable energy improvements to provide you with the most effective solution for your property.

Thanks to the new ECO grant funding for homes, thousands of homeowners can now enhance their energy efficiency with little or no cost. We offer a variety of products and services, including loft insulation andsolid wall insulation from ECO grant funding.

FRT Property Services Ltd is PAS 2030:2019 certified (Improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings) and a TrustMark Registered Business through the British Assessment Bureau Limited

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CASE STUDY

The benefits of external wall insulation Chapel Gardens, Benwick As part of its ongoing work to improve the energy efficiency of its homes, over the last two years Clarion Housing Group has retrofitted 505 homes across Fenland, Tonbridge and Malling which had an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below.

Among them were 13 bungalows in the Chapel Gardens development in Benwick.

In line with the fabric-first approach being taken by Equans and Clarion, Saint-Gobain Weber’s External Wall Insulation (EWI) system was specified for the bungalows to improve their thermal efficiency.

It is being installed by FRT Property Services Ltd, which is PAS 2030:2019 certified – something that is required of all of the subcontractors working on this project. By gaining PAS 2030:2019 certification, retrofit installers can demonstrate that they have installed energy efficiency measures that meet the required specifications, and have delivered on customer requirements and expectations in accordance with TrustMark standards.

FRT Property Services – which began working on Chapel Gardens in January 2023 – specialises in EWI and its director Farhat Ahmed and Operations Director Radu Ursache helped to ensure work was delivered to Weber standards, on time and within budget.

For this project, FRT team installed webertherm XM with 100mm of webertherm MFD insulation. The SHDF stipulates an energy performance outcome of 90kWh/ m2/year, with a target U-value of 0.30 W/ m²K. The addition of EWI from Weber was critical in enabling Clarion to meet the SHDF space heating demand performance outcome, as the replacement cavity wall insulation alone wouldn’t suffice – with the properties only achieving 0.44W/m²K. A realistic brick finish Having requested that the retrofit work didn’t change the aesthetic of the bungalows, the planners wanted to maintain a brick finish. To achieve this, weberwall brick was specified along with the webertherm XM EWI system. This innovative brick slip

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July 2023

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Retrofitting with weberwall brick.

system is lightweight and quick to install, containing the equivalent of 20 brick faces per sheet. It is available in a wide range of colours including Antique Buff, which meant it was possible to closely match the surrounding buildings.

Farhat said: “The team at Weber has been very helpful throughout the process and applications manager Linda Twidale showed my team how to install the product.

It’s very simple and provided the like-for-like result the client wanted; as far as brick slip systems go, weberwall brick provides the closest match to real bricks I’ve seen while working in this sector.”

It was important to Clarion that the residents of the bungalows were able to remain in their homes while the work was completed which is why EWI was the perfect solution. FRT team worked closely with Equans’ retrofit liaison officers and other subcontractors, including the scaffolding and utilities companies, to ensure everything went smoothly and the homeowners were not inconvenienced.

Measuring performance By installing the webertherm XM EWI system, the U-value at the properties has been improved to an efficient 0.20 W/m²K – far exceeding the target of 0.30W/m²K. Once all of the retrofit work has been completed, the bungalows will undergo a post-works EPC assessment and are expected to achieve a C rating.

The new insulation will provide improved thermal performance all year round, helping to keep residents’ homes cooler throughout the summer and warmer in the winter. It is predicted that those living in upgraded Clarion properties will save between £300 and £500 on their energy bills each year.

Switchee smart thermostats have been installed in some properties to relay data to Clarion, enabling them to monitor the energy consumption of the properties.

This project was shortlisted as a finalist in four categories of the 2023 Insulated Render and Cladding Association (INCA) Awards, recognising EWI Excellence in the UK and finalist for Energy Eficiency(EEA).

Registered Trades:- External wall insulation (Site rendered external wall insulation systems & Pre-finished external wall insulation systems, Trustmark Database Inclusion; TrustMark Licence Number: 2861404; TrustMark Reference: 242309

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HOME

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HOME

Lifting You Higher What do you do when you have difficulty with stairs, but you don’t want to move to a bungalow? Fitting a home lift is an increasingly popular option

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obility problems in later life, particularly for people who live alone, can mean that their homes become difficult to navigate; particularly if they are on two floors, and the stairs are difficult. There just aren’t enough bungalows to satisfy demand, and in any case, you may not want to move out of your familiar home.

So what can you do if one or more of the occupants of your home has difficulty with the stairs? A common solution is a chairlift; easily fitted and customised to the shape of your stairs, chairlift s are a great solution for many. But is there a better one?

You could contemplate putting in a home lift. Dismiss thoughts of huge clanky cabinets with telescopic gates; modern home lift s are advanced in technology and design, and unlike chair lift s, can actually enhance the appearance and appeal of your house.

DISTANCE A typical “residential elevator” travels smoothly and quietly on vertical rails through a hatch in the floor above. Travel distance is typically around four metres, but bespoke models can offer distances of as much as 13m, with a number of stops.

Because the rails are usually against the wall, the lift mechanism isn’t in your way when the cabinet is on the other floor.

Home lift s come in a number of different designs including partially or fully enclosed cabinets. One big advantage over chairlift s is that lift s can be big enough to take more than one person, or a wheelchair.

They will be fitted with backup battery power so in the event of a power cut they can be returned to the ground floor and the door opened manually, and optional extras sometimes include a built-in phone, adjustable lighting, a tip-up seat and so on.

It takes a couple of days to fit a home elevator, and it can usually be done without planning permission or much disruption to existing decoration. They can take up less than a square metre in space, and common options include fitting them from a downstairs living room straight up into the master bedroom, in a stairwell void to the upstairs landing, or even in a cupboard.

They are usually self-supporting so need no load-bearing walls, and some designs can be fitted to the outside of buildings, and also have applications in cases such as underground car parking.

So, could a home elevator give your life just the lift you need?

TYPES A pneumatic, or vacuum elevator moves the cabinet using changes in air pressure. It does not require construction of a pit, shaft, or machine room. A pneumatic elevator can be attached to a balcony or travel through a hole in the floor.

A vacuum elevator designed to carry a single passenger up to three stops will be suitable for most homes, requiring as little as under one square metre of space.

Vacuum elevators are an environmentally conscious option requiring minimal floor space and no pit below, and run completely on the power of air, offering a quiet, ecofriendly accessibility solution.

Vacuum elevators though do have some disadvantages; they tend to be slower and smaller than hydraulic elevators, will carry less weight and must be circular in shape.

They cannot be concealed so they will always be a visible feature of the home. If there is a power cut, they will automatically descend to the lowest floor, which is a good safety feature unless, of course, there is a fire on the lowest floor.

A hydraulic elevator lift s the cab using

a hydraulic ram, a piston inside a cylinder that is driven by a hydraulic fluid, typically oil. A pump forces fluid from a tank into a pipe that leads to the cylinder. If the valve is closed, the fluid is forced into the cylinder, which pushes a piston up and raises the elevator cab. When the valve is opened, the hydraulic fluid flows back into the reservoir and the cab descends.

Though the cost of a home elevator will vary according to the requirements and the technology used, to give a rough idea of cost, a one-floor lift can be manufactured to order within a few weeks, may take only a day to install, and might cost from around £12,000. You will of course pay extra for additional features and customisation.

For a few thousands extra, you may get a better choice of finishes and colours, and additional floor capabilities, perhaps up to six floors. Of course the number of floors very much affects the cost because of the fittings needed on each floor. ■

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COSTS Hydraulic elevators consume oil and need more frequent maintenance than other types of elevators. While they are more expensive than other types, hydraulic elevators offer quieter and smoother operation.

Some hydraulic elevators require a pit and machine room.

Hydraulic elevators are more expensive than vacuum elevators, and may take longer to install.

However they have advantages in terms of size, weight carried, and speed. Hydraulic elevators also have more options for shape than vacuum elevators, and are quieter in operation, though they may cost more to run.

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HOME

Keeping Wood Good

Wood is a flexible and durable building material, but needs to be cared for. We look at some of the top techniques

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ith colder weather coming it’s important to protect your outdoor timber structures such as fences, sheds and decking from the elements. Cutting and preparing wood for building makes it lose much of its natural protection, so it needs to be treated (which can be done in the factory) or prepared onsite. The main aim is to prevent the ingress of moisture, which will lead to warping, splitting, cracking, and the danger of mould and insect infestation.

There can be several stages to the preparation and treatment of wood. For instance, in some cases the ‘mill glaze’, the resin-like layer left on the surface of sawn wood, will weather in time, so for best treatment, it should be removed with a preparation compound before the wood is treated.

Any mould or mildew should be removed with bleach or vinegar before any other work is done, as they will inevitably reappear unless completely removed.

If your timber has existing paintwork but this is peeling or flaking, ideally this should be removed before applying any protective treatment, otherwise it will take the protection with it when it goes.

Stripped and cleaned timber has the best chance of being protected effectively.

Painting or staining is done most efficiently if the compound used is compatible with the density of the wood – for instance a thin oil is better for penetrating exotic hardwoods,

while a single coat oil may work better for soft woods.

The finishing step in protecting timber can be mainly decorative, but it’s still important to choose the right kind of paint for the job, along with suitable conditioners and primers to ensure a perfect finish. The better the quality of treatment and finish, the longer the results will last and the better the wood will be protected. With good quality cleaning, preparation and treatment products, you can expect your wood to be protected for many years – which means you can enjoy its natural beauty, rather than having to worry about protecting it every year! ■

CLEANING If your timber is old, it will be more accepting of protective treatments. The first step is cleaning and degreasing, and if the timber has ‘greyed’ due to exposure to ultra-violet light, this can be addressed with preparation compounds.

You shouldn’t apply oil or paint over greyed wood as this can leave an unpredictable surface. celebrityangels.co.uk

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HOME

Father Brown’s Classic Crib Father Brown writer GK Chesterton lived in this landmark property – now it could be yours for a cool £5.25m

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K Chesterton, revered writer, thinker and critic, lived in a remarkable house in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, from 1922 to his death in 1936. Now the property is up for sale at a cool £5.25m. What would you get for your money?

Chesterton is best remembered as author of the Father Brown detective mysteries, and certainly the house, Top Meadow, is set in the sort of bucolic English village where you could image the priest cycling past on his way to administer to his flock. Chesterton, with his immense

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girth, and habitual costume of a cape and swordstick with a cigar in his mouth, must have cut something of an eccentric figure around Beaconsfield.

The house has of course been extensively modernised since Chesterton’s time, though as a Grade II listed building its exterior remains very much as it was in his day. Dating from 1912, it was added to in 1922 and later, and now combines traditional charm and contemporary style with quality oak materials and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Featuring six bedrooms, five bathrooms and six reception rooms over 547sqm, the

house has a double height vaulted drawing room with a minstrels’ gallery, elegant dining room, partly vaulted with lovely oak book casing and cupboards, and a beautifully fitted kitchen with integrated appliances and a fabulous central island.

The double garage features a home office space above, and the property is approached via electric wrought iron double gates leading to a cobble set driveway.

One point to note is that as a Grade II listed building, the property is EPC exempt. It’s on sale at £5.25m from www.bovingdons.com. ■

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DO YOU HAVE HARD WATER? Heating systems can be made

Approximately

13 million

12% less effective

with just a 1.6mm coating of limescale, costing over £250 extra in energy costs each year

households (60+%) in the UK live in a hard water area

Detergents, shampoos and shower gels don’t react well with hard water; not only do you end up using around

Over 5 years limescale damage to appliances cost an average of

£320

50% more

in repair costs

it also creates an unpleasant scum

Hard water is

harsher on your skin

Water softeners and RO units together could

This can feel like your skin has been stripped of its natural oils, detrimental especially if you suffer from a skin condition such as eczema.

Hard water leaves that recognisable

residue

on taps, baths and shower screens which requires regular scrubbing to remove with harsh detergents

reduce greenhouse gases equivalent to getting one and a third cars off the road for an entire year!

Made in the UK, and with over 30 years experience, Nexus water softeners are the solution to all your hard water problems. They fit neatly under the kitchen sink and all you have to do is top up with salt, normally once a month for a standard family of four.

Call Nexus today on 03301 330656 or visit www.nexuswatersofteners.co.uk (use code MR2023) and one of our specialist water softener dealers will visit your home for a FREE consultation.

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HOME

Hard (Water) Times

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Hard water can be a problem for appliance longevity and for health, but what can you do about it? of these minerals have useful dietary functions, but some can affect both our homes and our health.

ELEMENTS It’s when drinking water is contaminated with elements like manganese or aluminium that problems can start, particularly since hard water also encourages the development of bacteria.

Hard water is a geographical problem, and your water supplier will be able to tell you how your supply rates in terms of mineral content - a soft water area would have under 60 parts per million, while a very hard water area would register more than 180ppm.

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You can buy home test kits to measure water hardness, but it’s easy to spot the symptoms, which include: h Limescale deposits in kettles and taps h Shampoo not lathering and soap residue left in the bath and shower h Skin dryness due to soap deposits, and possible eczema What you often can’t see is the harm hard water is doing to your pipes and appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, boilers and heating systems, where deposits of limescale can cause serious problems with water flow and operating efficiency. In bad cases, the lifespan of appliances can be impaired because the limescale affects too many parts for repair to be practical, and your heating costs can go up as hot water heating systems become clogged with limescale.

SOLUTIONS Fortunately, once you have identified the problem of hard water in your household supply, there are solutions.

The most common one is to fit a water softening system. Often these contain salt filters in a unit installed under a sink, which remove the minerals from the incoming water supply, resulting in the entire supply for the house becoming softened. The catch is that the filters have to be replaced regularly, so there is a continuing expense.

An alternative is a water ‘conditioner’ using a polyalloy filter which changes the ionic composition of the water. It won’t remove minerals and doesn’t truly ‘soften’ the water, but it should reduce the effects of water hardness by lowering surface tension, and can be a costeffective measure in some cases. In either case the result should be softer, bettertasting water. ■

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ou may be aware that the water supply in your area is what is known as ‘hard’ water, but what exactly does this mean and what are its problems?

Hard water is defined as water with a high additional mineral content, usually calcium, magnesium and iron compounds picked up when the water filters through geological layers of limestone, chalk or gypsum.

In a perfect world, the water you get out of your taps would be pure H2O, but of course the molecules we actually get are mixed up with all sorts of contaminants from the water supply system. Much of it is perfectly harmless, in fact many

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HOME

Cleaner Breathing We all understand the perils of outdoor pollution, but is the air in your home clean and healthy enough to breathe freely?

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the air and circulating clean air. While the main use is to filter out pollutants, some air purifiers also include an ultra-violet light source intended to sterilise the air against bacteria and viruses.

If you suffer from allergies such as hay fever, or someone in the family has a respiratory infection, consistent use of an air purifier can reduce symptoms and transmission by removing airborne pollutants and infectious elements.

FILTRATION So how does it work? The industry standard is HEPA 13 filtration, which removes 99.97% of viruses, polluted particles, odours, allergens and dust from the air. HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters can theoretically remove dust, pollen, mould,

bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns upwards.

In some air purifier systems, a pre-filter catches the largest particles like fine hair, pet dander, dust mites and fluff, while a second one removes indoor micro-particles such as viruses, pollen and bacteria. Then a third activated carbon filter absorbs formaldehyde and other harmful substances such as gases and smoke. A useful sideeffect of the air purification process is that it reduces odours.

More sophisticated air purifiers work with an app which will give you a running check on air quality – some can even be controlled by voice commands via Amazon Alexa or Google Home Assistant. Changing the filter every 12 months or so makes sure that your air supply remains clean and healthy. ■

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he Covid pandemic reminded us that what we breathe into our bodies can have profound effects on our health. Wearing masks to prevent the transmission of viruses suddenly made sense – but in some countries, Japan particularly, wearing masks outdoors has long been a response to the dangers of air pollution.

The problem is that outdoor air pollution inevitably gets into the home, where pollutants can concentrate. The home also has other sources of pollution such as cooking and heating systems and household chemicals which present longterm health hazards.

While it isn’t desirable to wear masks around the home, a more practical solution is an air purifier which works by filtering

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Bluestem Group manufacturers/distributors of Ewbank, Igenix, Statesman and Ariete.

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SUPPORTING HOME HEATING NOW AND INTO THE FUTURE WITH VAILLANT With 150 years of expertise in the heating industry, Vaillant offers homeowners energy-saving heating and hot water systems that increasingly make use of low carbon technologies.

Adopting a full system approach, to ensure homeowners get the most out of their heating systems, Vaillant’s product portfolio encompasses highly efficient boilers, heat pumps, a range of smart controls, hot water cylinders and accessories.

Vaillant’s philosophy is to combine innovation with integration, by creating full system solutions that offer the reassurance that each component has been designed and tested to work together seamlessly. For homeowners this means they can take advantage of reliable, heating technologies that deliver increased energy efficiency and effortless installation for the heating engineer.

What’s more, to provide peace of mind for homeowners, the ecoTEC plus is also setup to run diagnostics to reduce the need for emergency callouts. If the ecoTEC plus detects a fault, it will try and correct itself up to 10 times. If it can’t correct itself, it will run at a reduced output and alert both the homeowner and the installer of the problem to initiate the repair process.

Connectivity and smart home integration To complement the ecoTEC plus, Vaillant has also launched myVAILLANT connect. This is a plug-and-play solution that can be installed by a heating engineer to make the ecoTEC plus easier and more intuitive for integrating with smart home devices.

High-efficiency boilers Since introducing the first wall-hung boiler to the world in 1905, Vaillant has remained a leader in heating technology – with significant investment in research and development to ensure its customers are getting the most out of their system.

Most recently Vaillant remastered its leading boiler, the ecoTEC plus, in its combination and system range to incorporate a wide range of refinements, designed to improve both the homeowner and installer experience.

The enhanced technology used in the new ecoTEC plus means it will constantly monitor the quality of the gas, to maximise the energy being used while it’s in operation – making it Vaillant’s most efficient boiler to date.

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ADVERTORIAL

With myVAILLANT connect, homeowners can control their heating and hot water via the myVAILLANT app and integrate their central heating system seamlessly with smarthome platforms such as Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa. The myVAILLANT app also allows users to check their energy usage, and access remote appliance support and system health check reports to ensure everything is running smoothly.

The move to heat pumps Vaillant is a firm advocator of the adoption of a multi-technology approach to home heating – including boilers, heat pumps and hybrid systems along with controls – to help homes become more energy efficient.

Alongside this, Vaillant continues to push boundaries in heating innovation. With current incentives and policy in place, the UK heat pump market is expected to gain momentum as the industry aims to meet the Government target of installing 600,000 heat pumps per year by 2028.

Vaillant has been producing heat pumps for the UK market since the early 2000s, however the new line is dedicated to producing Vaillant’s aroTHERM plus air-towater heat pump – an award-winning product, that is fast becoming one of the most popular heat pump models in the UK market.

Launched in 2020, the aroTHERM plus is the first UK manufactured heat pump to use a natural refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential of just three. Capable of achieving higher hot water flow temperatures of up to 75 degrees, meaning the water is stored in the cylinder at a useable temperature without the need for a backup heater.

A heat pump system relies on a few components to work efficiently together to offer homeowners control and comfort in their home. This would typically include an outdoor heat pump unit, a hot water cylinder, and a control – so as heat pumps continue to grow in popularity, the need for a full system approach becomes even more prevalent.

To support this anticipated demand, last year Vaillant became the first manufacturer to produce both heat pumps and traditional gas boilers in the UK; unveiling a multi-millionpound heat pump production line at its headquarters in Belper, Derbyshire.

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AT HOME WITH HEAT PUMPS As the number of homes in the UK installing heat pumps continues to rise, there are still several misconceptions around the low carbon technology. Vaillant’s Heat Pump Possible partnership with TV and Architecture Pundit, Kevin McCloud, sought to shine a light on the breadth of properties across the UK, where not only heat pumps had been installed, but the technology was working efficiently.

Selected as just one of three winning entries, John Taylor’s home – South Barn – located in the historic town of Matlock, Derbyshire, isn’t the typical type of property where you’d expect a heat pump to be installed. Centuries old, the Grade II property was previously used as a barn, before being transformed into a home in 1997, where it has been enjoyed by John and his family.

Due to the unique architectural features of the Grade II listed building, including thick walls and original design elements, such as the grand apex roof in the kitchen, it was imperative for John to find a solution that could preserve the heritage while ensuring energy efficiency was maximised.

While for many, this might have meant that a heat pump was not the obvious choice, meticulous planning by John’s heating engineers meant that a 7kW Vaillant aroTHERM plus air source heat pump was best suited to meet the heating and hot water requirements of the property.

The installation

As a director at Derbyshire Dales Community Energy Company, John has always been passionate about reducing his impact on the environment. His home already has solar panels on the roof, while both John and his partner have been driving electric vehicles for several years.

Installed in 2022, the heat pump was strategically positioned to ensure minimal disruption to the property’s character and architectural integrity. The radiators were replaced to ensure they were correctly sized to make the most of the lower temperature heating system, and a Vaillant control panel and uniSTOR hot water cylinder were installed within the property to supply the home’s hot water.

So, when his existing gas boiler needed updating – John enlisted the help of local installer, IMS Heat Pumps, to develop a low carbon solution.

Keen to further optimise the energy efficiency of his new system, John also had installed a Vaillant sensoCOMFORT heating control in the home, while the accompanying

sensor has been fitted outside. The weather sensor continually monitors the temperature outside and helps determine how hard the heat pump needs to work to ensure comfort levels are optimised, while the system works as efficiently as possible.

John has been able to control the system via the myVAILLANT app, so he can monitor his energy usage, control the temperature of the property, and create time programmes to help save energy when not needed, even when he’s away from home.

John explains: “Using the myVAILLANT app I’ve been able to ensure that the heat pump not only provides the comfort levels me and my wife want, but also that when I’m away from home, I’m able to save energy when heating and hot water aren’t needed.”

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ADVERTORIAL

The results The results of John’s installation have been remarkable, especially during the icy grip of winter when temperatures plummeted to -7°C. He explains: “The air source heat pump is working very well indeed and during the cold snap of weather last winter, our home remained warm and cozy.”

Beyond the comfort, the switch to low carbon has significantly reduced John’s carbon emissions too. He concludes: “The main motivation for us to move to a low carbon heating solution was to help reduce our carbon emissions, which I’m delighted to have achieved. I’ve also been pleasantly surprised by the running costs too, which as the weather warmed up were on average around £6-£7 per day, this includes

charging my electric car, so I am very pleased with that.”

And while John has been able to realise savings already, by choosing IMS Heat Pumps, an MCS certified company, John was able to access the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, receiving a grant of £5,000* which he used against the cost of the equipment installed and to offset some of the installation costs too.

The journey of John installing a Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pump in his Grade II listed home, while perhaps not the obvious choice, has been a resounding success. Combining heritage preservation with sustainability, John has showcased how modern technology can seamlessly integrate with historical charm to create a home fit for the future.

For more information about Vaillant and the products and services available, please visit: www.vaillant.co.uk/homeowners/

* Please note £5,000 was the maximum grant available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme at the time of John’s application. In September, the UK government announced that the grant will increase to a maximum of £7,500 per household from Monday 23rd October 2023, for both air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps.

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DON’T ROLL THE DICE ON RADON GAS REMEDIATION

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stablished in November 1992, we have unparalleled experience with radon gas remediation, for both new-build and existing buildings. Including homes, schools, workplaces and period buildings across the UK. For over 30 years, we have developed remediation techniques used across the industry, having held a patent for the radon sump from the early 90’s and now hold a current patent for the radon mini sump. We manufacture and assemble our own remedial products and sell internationally.

We are a one-stop-shop for radon gas, offering specialist testing, risk assessments, consultancy, remedial surveys, new build advice for protection methods, installations, maintenance and training.

Installing our radon sumps and mini sumps under a radon barrier provides you with insurance. If the radon levels are elevated, the sumps can be activated with a radon fan to reduce the radon levels.

Our retrofit systems are second to none. Our fan enclosures provide safety, security and good aesthetics. Available in stainless steel or PE plastic, in white, black, brown or grey to match existing pipework.

Call 01934 513429 or visit glencoe-radvac.com

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HOME

Why Radon Matters You may not have heard of it, but radon can be a danger in your home. Read on for everything you need to know

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between three percent and 14 percent of all lung cancers in a country, depending on the national average radon level and smoking prevalence. Lung cancer risk is higher for smokers due to synergistic effects of radon and cigarette smoking.

Every building contains some radon, but the levels are usually so low as to be harmless. Areas with higher levels depend on the type of ground - for instance in parts of the country rich in granite, such as Dartmoor in Devon and Cornwall.

ADVISORY If radon escapes from the ground to the open air, it is quickly diluted to low

concentrations. However, radon can reach high concentrations in enclosed spaces such as caves, mines and buildings.

Radon in the home delivers larger doses to the UK public than any other natural source of ionising radiation. Studies of miners established many years ago that exposure to high radon concentrations leads to an increased risk of lung cancer.

Most of the risk comes not from radon gas itself, but from its short-lived decay products. However, ‘radon’ is used as a convenient shorthand.

On the basis of this evidence, the UK introduced a radon control policy in 1987, one of the first countries to do so. »

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t’s perhaps not as well-known as it should be, but radon, in the form of a radioactive gas, is a possible threat in buildings through the UK. It’s very localised, so some areas are more at risk than others, but the only way to know for sure whether your building is at risk is to have a professional check done.

Radon gas is created when natural radioactive uranium slowly decays in the ground under our homes and rises to the surface. It tends to concentrate within buildings because of the way they are constructed and ventilated.

Radon is one of the leading causes of lung cancer. Radon is estimated to cause

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HOME

broadly similar picture of the risks of radon exposure, and the conclusion is that there is clear evidence of a risk from indoor radon, both overall and at concentrations below the current UK Action Level for radon of 200 Bq m3.

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getting on top of it is important!”.

The Advisory Group reviewed the risk of lung cancer from exposure to radon in homes using all sources of information and the data from all these sources were interpreted in the light of the general understanding of the biological, chemical and physical events that take place when ionising radiation interacts with cells in the human body.

All the sources of information paint a

IMAGES: Dreamstime

EVIDENCE Maria Dugdale, Director of Radonova Scientific and Chair of the UK Radon Association, says: “Radon is somewhat of a dry subject by nature, and as an indoor air contaminant hasn’t had much focus, maybe because it isn’t that easy to detect. In my day job I manufacture the special radiation sensor material used inside the radon gas detectors - a very specialist trade, shrouded in secrecy as the recipe is secret and personal to each manufacturer! I also talk about radon to the general public, mostly in connection with property transactions. It’s a question that pops up on the survey and it tends to either cause annoyance or panic.

“Radon, the silent killer”, as some might frame it, has had grandmas on the phone to me, desperate for a test, to be able to see their grandkids! But that sort of reaction is a product of hype - the real risk of radon is in much longer term exposure to raised levels which can cause health effects. At the other extreme, there are those of the school of thought that says “my family lived here all their lives and didn’t die of lung cancer, I won’t bother”.

“But Radon is certainly a health and safety issue in the workplace, and it was interesting to see the prosecution of a school this summer (Kingswood, a private boarding school in Bath, was fined £50,000 after exposing employees and children to levels of radon gas almost eight times the legal limit).

“As it’s possible to expose your workers or tenants to too high levels of radon,

REMEDIATION The issue of radon comes up when buying and selling properties. Anyone can find out if a property is in a Radon Affected Area by completing an online search at www.ukradon.org. If you live in an area likely to be affected by higher levels of radon, it makes sense to get your property tested. This is done by leaving detectors in the building for three months. If they indicate high levels, what steps should you take?

The good news is that steps to eliminate radon from your home need not be drastic or expensive. Solutions include replacing or adding ventilation bricks in outside walls, or installing a small pump in the loft that gently blows in air. Most remedies work for the long term, so only occasional further checking is needed. ■

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02/10/2023 15:20

Garden Trends

From advice on fences to the most useful power products, all the latest ideas and trends in the garden market

DO FENCE ME IN Fences have to stand up to a lot. Constant rain, hot sun, drought and high winds - and that’s just the summer! As the mercury plummets and we head into the winter months, the chance of gales and storms rapidly increases.

Forest Garden, the UK’s largest manufacturer and distributor of wooden garden products, makes up to 55,000 fence panels every week - meaning ample replacements for any impacted by storm damage.

But fence damage – or the worst of it, anyway – can be avoided if you take some simple steps at this time of year.

Here, Jenny Davis, Head of Marketing for Forest Garden (www.forestgarden.co.uk), shares tips for keeping fencing in the best condition this winter: Check the posts. This is one of the most common causes for a fence not staying upright. Concrete posts which have become loose in the ground should be dug out and reset in fresh concrete. Timber posts which have rotted should either be replaced or can be repaired with steel

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repair spikes or concrete repair spurs.

Reinforce damaged panels.

Replacement fence panel battens and caps are available to replace – and reinforce any panels that are damaged, but if damage is extensive the whole panel should be replaced. Remember, if the high winds hit, fences tend to act like sails in the wind.

They can literally get carried away.

Check for rot. Rotting wood will compromise the integrity of your fence.

Check for signs of rot before winter sets in.

Clear the surroundings. Make sure that trees and plants aren’t too close to your fence. In heavy winds, a heavy tree branch can be blown into your fence resulting in significant damage.

Forest Garden has a wide range of fence designs with a choice of style, construction, treatment, height, posts and accessories.

The collection brings together the latest designs combined with innovations, from traditional to noise-reducing panels, to decorative screens and low-level fencing.

Forest Garden fencing carries either a 10 or 15-year anti-rot guarantee.

FEED THE BIRDS New for this season, the Swedish Red Multiholk Cottage is a combination of a two-litre capacity bird feeder and a nesting box. Hand-painted with nontoxic water-based acrylic paint and made in Sweden, the shape is inspired by the architecture of the colourful traditional local wooden houses. The result is a handmade birdhouse crafted of solid wood from sustainably managed forests and painted with environmentally friendly colours. Feeding slots in the bottom of the house allow small birds easy access to food, while the seeds are protected from the weather, droppings and large birds. During the breeding season, the Multiholk can be converted into a wall or post mounted nesting box. It’s available from www.thedesigngiftshop.com

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LEAF ENVY

SLICE OF THE ACTION The Le Feu Turtle Gas Pizza Oven creates sensational homemade pizza slices in just minutes. With electronic ignition and temperature controls, it reaches temperatures of up to 400ºC to cook 35cm pizzas.

The unique sculptural dome design has been cleverly engineered to roll heat directly over your homecooked meals and achieve the perfect results. Completely portable with a weatherproof design and foldable legs, you can use it in the garden, at the beach or on camping trips. It costs £499 from www.cuckooland.com.

If you like a bit of a surprise with your gardening, try the Plant Subscription Box from Leaf Envy (www.leafenvy.co.uk). Experience the thrill of unboxing unique, exquisite plants each month - each hand-picked, unusual plant species is housed in a design-led planter, delivered directly to your door. Leaf Envy says you should “embrace the elegance and tranquillity of nature - because your living space deserves a touch of greenery as unique as you are”. Cost is £38 per month.

TOOLS FOR THE JOB

IMAGES: Dreamstime

Power tool specialist VonHaus.com has come up with a list of tools ideal for maintaining your outdoor space in autumn. h The 1500W Electric Lawn Scarifier & Rake is perfect for autumn when the soil will most likely be warm and moist.

The scarifier removes thatch and other debris from your lawn and comes with a large 30L collection box. h The 1600W Pressure Washer removes algae, mildew and other debris likely to grow on paving, decking and other areas of the garden. Six different attachments make cleaning your garden easy. h The 3-in-1 Leaf Blower collects loose leaves together and sucks them into the collection bag for mulching h The 600W Pole Trimmer helps you put overhead work within easy reach. Choose from three extension options. h The 40V Cordless Lawn Mower is an ideal choice for keeping your lawn looking pristine. There’ll be no tripping over cables or accidentally cutting extension cords – garden maintenance just got a whole lot easier.

Kieren Crampton, DIY Buyer at VonHaus said: “It’s important to take care of your garden in autumn as it means you won’t have as big of a job come spring, and it keeps your foliage and grass healthier through the colder months.”

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Garden to Sell Your garden could be one of the major selling points of your house – do you know how to make the most of it for a better sale?

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resentation is everything when you are trying to sell a property, and the first thing any prospective buyer will notice is the front garden – assuming you have one. If not, it won’t be long before they’re angling to see what’s around the back.

According to a 2020 study by Post Office Money, landscaping your garden could raise your property value by an incredible 77 percent, so it’s certainly worth putting some time, money and effort into the garden before you try to sell your house.

You don’t have to go to extremes like adding a conservatory or extension, though these can add value to your property. All you have to do is present the garden at its best and let your prospective buyers see its potential. If they want to do major works, they can do them to their taste – often preferable to having to inherit someone else’s planning decisions.

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But smaller garden jobs, and basic maintenance, can do a lot to show off the potential of your property, and it needn’t take much time or money to do the work.

PLANTING The main reason people look for a garden is as a place to rest and relax. Since the pandemic, it’s been more important for a lot of people to be able to get away from the pressures of work and find a peaceful spot. A garden can provide that connection to nature which is a desirable part of any property.

That doesn’t mean that everyone has to be a keen gardener. Sure, if you want to spend time cultivating flowers, you will be rewarded with a colourful display each spring which will last you through to the autumn – but then the digging begins.

Many people just want a place to chill out, so a tidy, green and well-manicured

lawn is a must. You might also like to create a wild area to encourage insects and other living creatures. A pond, insect hotel, or bird-table are also good ways to bring nature to your garden and give prospective buyers the idea of idyllic charm.

Needless to say, you should clear your garden of all obstacles such as garden furniture, lawnmowers and children’s toys before viewing.

DECKING Wooden decking or a hard patio can be superb additions to a garden – think of creating a specific ‘chill-out’ area rather than just strewing furniture at random on the lawn. Don’t overdo the decking – too much can create a sterile, uncomfortable environment – and don’t go for artificial lawn unless you want to decimate the local wildlife.

Patios and decking of course have to

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be maintained with cleaning, repointing, painting and varnishing, and the same care in maintenance should be applied to fences – the odd loose board or decayed top cap may not be noticed by you, but you can bet that it will stick out to any prospective buyer.

Sheds, whether wooden or metal, should be maintained and should be sited sympathetically – for instance, a pleasant looking wooden structure with a verandah may make a selling point, whereas a windowless steel building might be good storage for your lawnmower, but is probably best hidden behind a screen.

Screening rolls made from bamboo, reed, or rattan make great privacy screens and can also help to disguise damaged or degrading fence panels. Many companies also offer acoustic fencing solutions, which can help to block out noise as well as protect from overlooking neighbours.

area. You could also grow plants such as wisteria through a pergola, or add trellis along your fence for climbing plants.

Taking care of your garden shows that you also care about the interior of the house, so it’s an immediate way to win over prospective buyers. A comfortable looking garden will give them an immediate feeling that they would enjoy living there – your sales job will be half done, and you will close the deal quicker, as well as getting better offers. ■

IMAGES: Dreamstime

PART OF THE HOME It’s important to think of your garden as part of your home when you are planning to sell. Keep on top of garden maintenance as you would indoors cleaning, and spruce things up with the odd coat of paint.

Colourful cushions can work as well in the garden as they do in the house, and can refresh tired garden furniture. Trimming a hedge or power-washing a patio can make all the difference to appearance before a viewing.

Garden privacy can be important too, and even if your property is overlooked by other homes, there are things you can do to conceal your garden space, such as erecting a pergola, installing large planters, or growing taller plants to create a private

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Keep it Hot in the Garden Enjoying your garden in winter means providing some heat for your leisure area. What’s the best way to go about it?

Though the winter is coming, if you have a patio, dining area or a summer house in your garden, there’s no reason you can’t continue to spend some family leisure time outdoors. No-one’s going to go out in the pelting rain or the driving snow, but if the weather is just a bit nippy, a little outdoor heating technology can help to keep your garden in comfortable use well into the colder months.

The trick is to choose heating systems that warm people without gushing heat into the open air. In many cases the easiest

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solution is an outdoor electric heater which just plugs into an outdoor socket – this is a quick way to take the chill off your patio area, and can also be a useful option for a shed or workshop.

Electric outdoor heaters come in many types from floor and tabletop freestanding models to wall-mounted electric heater units for garden buildings. An outdoor heating lamp is also one of the best outdoor heating options for small spaces, such as balconies or courtyards, which may not be suitable for firepits.

Outdoor electric heaters typically use clear halogen, ruby red halogen, quartz, or gold bulbs as their heating elements.

Depending on the heating element used in your lamp, they work by either warming the surrounding air or heating people and objects directly with infrared technology.

Consider the size of the area you want to heat, and keep your seating clustered around the heater so as not to waste warmth. Obviously the higher the wattage of a heater the more heat it will generate, but the more it will cost to run.

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GARDEN

GAS HEATERS A gas powered patio heater does not need to be installed next to a power outlet as it functions using bottles of propane or butane gas. These bottles are usually sold separately and must be replaced when empty rather than being refilled. Gas heaters are normally heavier than electric heaters, which may make them more difficult to move around, but which does make them more stable.

Gas heaters can emit fumes, which means that they are only suitable for garden use, rather than perhaps on a patio. On the other hand they are more cost-effective than electric heaters.

The heat output of outdoor heaters depends on the power rating of the device, which can be rated in square feet or metres, or British Thermal Units (BTUs), and should be calculated according to your needs. It’s worth noting that column-style heaters may be less efficient in wind as they emit heat horizontally. This heat loss is less noticeable with heaters that emit heat vertically.

FIREPITS An increasingly popular heating option is the firepit or fire basket, which can double

as a heater and a barbecue. Designed to look like a freestanding open fireplace, usually made from steel or cast iron, firepits make a stunning visual focal point in any garden space. The fuel source is usually wood, but make sure that you burn dry, untreated and unpainted wood for a clean burn.

An alternative is a chimenea, a classic design of outdoor heater that originated in Mexico and is usually made from clay, cast iron or steel. Most chimeneas have a traditional design of a round lower body topped by a vertical smokestack, and are fuelled by charcoal, which is great for cooking. Clay chimineas need to be cured before initial usage. This involves lighting some small fires in the chiminea to coat its interior with soot and seal the pores in the clay, an essential process that protects the chiminea against moisture damage and cracking.

for humid or coastal environments. h Make sure open fires are on a level surface, don’t use too much wood and keep a bucket of sand nearby in case they need to be extinguished.

Once cooled after use, wipe down open flame heaters with an oily rag to safeguard against rust. Firepits, bowls, baskets, and chimeneas will resist showers, but not harsher conditions, so buy a cover for them if they are too large to store away or are fixed in place. h Store bulbs in outdoor heating lamps safely away when not in use, or fit a protective cover. Clean and replace as necessary. h Coil and store away electrical cables when not in use to prevent trip hazards.

Children should be supervised if you use tabletop heaters to make sure they don’t get their hands close to the heating elements.

CARE AND CLEANING Of course, outdoor heating requires care and maintenance if it is to be kept safe and efficient through the winter. Here are a few top care tips: h Stainless steel is the material of choice

All patio heaters must conform to the appropriate CE and BS standards. With the right choice, you will be able to extend the use of your garden into the winter months, and enjoy the hard work you have done in making it part of your home. ■

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GARDEN

Winter is Coming We’ve enjoyed our gardens in the summer and autumn, now it’s time to get ready for winter. Here are some top tips from the experts

O

ground. The more tidying and sorting you do while you have the time, the more it will pay off in the spring.

So here are our 12 top tips for autumn/ winter garden maintenance.

1. Bring Out Your Dead This is the time to get rid of dead vegetation.

Tidy your borders, clean out your gutters, sweep up and clear everything away. If you have a local council garden waste service, pack everything off with them, or use a local recycling centre. Laws surrounding bonfires are a little vague – theoretically there’s no law against burning garden waste on your own property, but you have to be careful to cause no nuisance. The law is that you cannot get rid of household waste if it will cause pollution or harm people’s health.

This includes burning it.

You can get rid of household or garden waste by composting or recycling it.

Contact your local council to find out how to dispose of garden waste and about recycling in your area. You could be fined

IMAGES: Dreamstime

ur gardens leap into life in the spring and summer, and perhaps that’s when we get most enjoyment from them. Unfortunately, the harder months of autumn and winter have to be dealt with too, and there it’s more like hard work than fun!

If you like hard work (and we all need some exercise), there’s still fun to be had in the preparation work necessary for helping your garden to weather the cold season.

The pay-off is that you can look forward to the following spring and summer, knowing that you have prepared your garden for a healthy growing period.

Autumn and winter are about maintenance, and of course it’s best to get the work done before the days get too short and there’s not enough light to complete the work. As the weather deteriorates, you’ll want to be sitting indoors with a drink, looking out of your window and congratulating yourself on a job well done, not out there in the cold digging iron-hard

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if you light a fire and allow the smoke to drift across the road and become a danger to traffic. Your council has a responsibility to investigate complaints of smoke and fumes that could be a ‘statutory nuisance’.

They can issue an ‘abatement notice’ if a neighbour’s bonfire is causing a nuisance.

Your neighbour can be fined if they do not follow the rules of the abatement notice.

Pull up weeds from the root, particularly at paving joints. If you use a chemical weedkiller, look for one that is environmentally friendly and be careful of your neighbour’s plants if you are spraying close to a border.

2. Protect Your Plants Tender plants should be protected from frost with a layer of protective insulation – vegetables can be wrapped in horticultural fleece. Winter wrappings are best put in place at the first warning of frost, usually between September and November.

Materials such as fleece, hessian, bracken, straw and polystyrene can be used to insulate plants from cold or wind. To prevent sweating and possible rotting, protective covers should be removed when extended periods of very mild weather are forecast, but replaced as necessary if the weather becomes cold again. Delicate potted plants should be brought closer to the house for more shelter, or ideally taken indoors.

Tender species like begonias, dahlias, and cannas should be lifted before the first frosts - cut back the stems and gently lift the tubers/rhizomes from the ground, clean the soil from them and store in trays of dry compost or sand, with just the top of crown visible. Put the trays in a cool, frost-free place over winter ready for replanting when spring arrives. In a mild winter you may be able to protect tender species without lifting them, instead covering the crowns with a thick blanket of mulch. » PROPERTY & HOME WITH MARTIN ROBERTS

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bin and add some water. Once they have become crumbly, you have a great mulch for your borders. Oak, alder, beech, and hornbeam leaves will rot fairly quickly, while some types like sycamore, walnut, horse chestnut, and sweet chestnut make take a couple of years, so try shredding them first to speed things up.

3. Glass Houses If you have painted your greenhouse with shade paint, now is the time to remove it. Greenhouse shading can be essential during the summer months - even during a British summer, the sun is able to increase temperatures within the greenhouse to such an extent that plants can be damaged, and a surprising amount of damage from overheating and scorching can be done to your plants in a very short period of time.

The simplest way to provide shade within your greenhouse is to apply a paint-on shading to the outside of the glazing. Some modern shading paints react to sunlight, so that when it rains the shading remains clear, letting in full light, and when sunny it will turn white, reflecting the rays of the sun. When you want to remove it, some types will peel off, which should be a quick and easy job. Others require scrubbing.

In either case, removing shade paint lets more sun through the glass, reducing the necessity of heating through the winter.

Now is also the time to check and replace damaged panes, and clear your greenhouse gutters too. Other greenhouse jobs before you move in plants for overwintering include sweeping out plant debris, and disinfecting paths and staging, including the inside of the glass, to prevent pests and fungal infection. Ventilate the greenhouse for couple of days to dry it thoroughly, and clean pots and seed trays in preparation for spring sowing and planting.

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4. Border Patrol This is the time of year to dig out annual plants and plant your beds and borders with short-lived perennials such as pansies, bellis daisies and wallflowers. Faded perennials should be cut back to around 5 cm above ground level, leaving some seed heads for insects. Once clean and tidy, borders should get a thick layer of compost, bark chips or well-rotted manure. You don’t have to worry too much about digging this in, the worms should do much of the work for you. Spread leaf mould on borders to add structure and organic matter to your soil. Leaf mould can be prepared in a sheltered spot in a large bin of wire mesh and wooden stakes. All you have to do is rake up dead leaves, pile them in the

5. Lawn Enforcement Remove moss with a moss killer, then rake up dead moss and thatch, which can be composted. Then brush in a sandy top dressing, a loamy mixture of clay, sand and silt. Adding this to your regular maintenance programme will improve soil quality, level out areas, and improve drainage. Follow up with an application of autumn lawn feed to prepare your lawn for the cold winter months. Autumn is the best time to lay new turf too, giving it plenty of time to establish before next summer.

6. Paths of Righteousness Pressure-wash paved surfaces to remove dirt, debris, chemicals and petrol which could be carried into cracks and cause damage. Be careful not to damage the surface or pointing. Spray from a good range and at a shallow angle, moving in a diagonal motion to avoid parallel washing of the joints. Improve drainage and aeration around paths and play areas by making deep holes with the prongs of a garden fork at 10 cm intervals.

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GARDEN

7. Clear Your Compost Last year’s compost should be cleared out and spread to make way for autumn’s new waste. If it’s not quite ready for use, turning old compost can speed up the process of decomposition.

8. Protect Your Pond There’s no quicker way to ruin your garden pond than letting autumn leaves fall into it, fouling the water and blocking circulation. Make sure you catch falling leaves in a fine mesh net spread across the pond and weighted down at the edges. Keep removing any leaves that fall onto it and add them to your mould bin. or fatsia provide large architectural foliage, and box, yew bay, and holly make excellent evergreen hedges. Now is the time to plant bulbs for springtime such as tulips, daffodils, pansies, bluebells and snowdrops.

10. Mind Your Tools Garden tools should be maintained even when you are not using them in the winter.

Clean, dry, sharpen and oil hand tools like secateurs, not forgetting to treat wooden handles with linseed oil. Service large machinery such as lawn mowers before storing away, remembering to empty petrol, check oil, and remove batteries to store in a warm, dry place.

11. Fine Furnishings Ideally, garden furniture should be stored for the winter, but if you don’t have space to shut it away, protect it from dampness and mould with tough waterproof sheet coverings securely fixed around items.

Cushions should be sealed in waterproof bags and stored in a shed, garage or loft.

12. Keep it Wild Protect the birds, insects and mammals that live in your garden - top up your bird table regularly with nuts, make sure your garden pond is free of ice to provide drinking water, and set up an insect hotel in a sheltered spot to help ladybirds live through the winter. ■

IMAGES: Dreamstime

9. Uproot Annuals Annual flowers look lovely in the summer months but have to be uprooted at the end of the season, making a lot of work!

They can be composted, but it does seem a waste. If you want to avoid the annual digging involved, plant perennials or evergreens, which will last longer.

Evergreens provide structure and interest during the winter, and autumn with its warm soil and cooler air temperatures is the ideal time to plant. Evergreens like sarcococca and daphne will provide glossy green leaves and beautifully fragrant flowers even in the depths of winter, while spring-flowering camellias

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GARDEN

Timber Tales Wood is a flexible structural product, but must be cared for properly to maintain its life and durability

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wood is that it can be a food source for fungi and certain species of wood-boring insects, so for internal and external timbers in above ground applications it’s wise to choose timber treated with a pressure treatment system such as Protim® pressure treatment system to prevent fungal decay and insect attack for the lifetime of the project.

This organic-based preservation system is used in wood for use in construction projects that require protection to Use Class UC1, UC2, UC3 such as roof timbers, timber framing, internal and external joinery and other internal and external timber projects that are above the damp proof course or ground level.

COATING This isn’t the end of the story though, because even when using a pressure treatment such as Protim®, timber will

need to be coated with a suitable external coating which will need to be maintained in service.

A light organic solvent preservative can be used for the preservation of most timber products used in external, above ground applications. The solvent evaporates from the timber over time, leaving lasting protection in a formulation containing fungicides for protection against fungal decay, insecticides to provide lasting protection from wood boring insects, and mouldicides commonly used to reduce mould growth on damp timber surfaces.

The final step in timber preservation would be the regular application by brush or roller of a woodstain which would protect against ultraviolet light, while being porous enough to allow the timber to breathe. ■

IMAGES: Dreamstime

s you will know if you have ever found that your wooden shed has rotted from the base up and has reached a terminal condition, wood is a fabulous structural material, but whether you are using it in a shed, fence, decking or other outdoor structure, it has to be protected from the elements.

Otherwise, your beautiful wooden structure will fall prey to frost, rain, damp and wind, and in a couple of seasons you will find it crumbling away.

There are two main approaches to protecting wood for outdoor use; you can either buy pre-treated timber, or you can treat it in position (don’t make the mistake my neighbour made of painting his wooden fence-posts only after planting them in the ground - they lasted a couple of years before the fence collapsed in a high wind! – Ed.) One of the problems with unprotected

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ENDPIECE

Building Hope Martin’s plans to renovate a community pub in the Rhondda Valley take a fresh turn – and he couldn’t be happier about it

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IMAGES: Martin Roberts

ife has a wonderful habit of forcing goalposts to be moved sometimes.

But in many instances it turns out to be for the better. What started out as a project just to renovate and rejuvenate a pub in the heart of the Rhondda Valley, has turned into something quite extraordinary and uplifting.

The Hendrewen Hotel in the tiny village of Blaencwm closed at the start of lockdown and the community lost its heart. There are no other social, eating or drinking facilities within two miles.

Originally, I recognised the hugely expanding tourism potential in the area there’s so much money being spent on new tourist attractions, and the infrastructure is being massively improved. But what started out as a semi-commercial venture has now turned into the most important community and kids’ well-being project of my life - and the good news is I’m filming the whole adventure for a future TV series.

Things changed when I met Steve from a charity called RealSkillz, who give disengaged 15- to 17-year-olds a chance to get recognised construction industry training qualifications in things like health and safety and practical construction site procedures.

The kids he works alongside are often not suited to the traditional school syllabus, but they shine when given the opportunity to do practical work in a field that they have interest in. They had previously worked on small community initiatives, such as painting the village hall and installing a bin store at an old people’s home, but when I heard what they did I decided to offer my pub as a project for them to work on.

CREATIVE And they have excelled - proving the point beyond any reasonable doubt that if you give kids a chance to work on something that genuinely interests them, they are as hard working, motivated, diligent and creative as you could ever wish for.

Initially, I thought they would only help with the preparation and rip-out phase, but they have been so incredible, I now want them involved in the project from

beginning to end. They will work alongside my contractors - electricians, plumbers, dry liners, carpenters - to completely refurbish the Hendren, learning vital skills and trying out various trades for size as they go. And at the end of it, they will share in all the excitement of the reopening of a place at the heart of their own community.

And I’ll make sure each of them has a picture on the wall in ‘Heroes and Helpers’ corner.

But their own personal stories are incredible. We had an awards evening last week, where I got to hear first-hand from the kids’ parents quite how positive the experience has been for them. One lad who has a prosthetic leg and suffered social anxiety is now flourishing, said his celebrityangels.co.uk

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tearful dad. Another with agoraphobia had recently left the house on his own for the first time in five years, to cycle to his Grandad‘s grave, so he could share his stories of his renovation works with the person who he used to do little DIY jobs with. Three of the lads are now going to college to do further construction qualifications when that simply was not on the agenda previously.

The stories of hope and positivity, where there was previously uncertainty and gloom, are endless. So, I’m now thinking of changing the name of the TV documentary from Oops I Bought a Pub to The Pub the Kids Built, and I couldn’t be happier with the way this particular story is evolving. ■ PROPERTY & HOME WITH MARTIN ROBERTS

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Stiltz Homelifts turns your new home into a forever home.

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Call today to discuss your project or request your free information pack on

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Worth the Risk?

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Trust the Tick

NAPIT registered members have demonstrated their competence, they hold the necessary insurances and have the right processes to assure compliance with many government backed schemes.

Trust the Tick and be rest assured your home is in safe hands

Search for a NAPIT certified tradesperson today: search.napit.org.uk napit_single.indd 1

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