Q&As

We are looking for someone to externally render a large timber frame house with something like Parex. We live in Cambridgeshire. They would need to board it first.

I am looking for a reputable manufacturer and installer of a solar car port or solar system to add to home with car charger essentially for charging an electric car at home. I have not seen any articles on this in your magazine or have I missed it? Would be grateful for any information you [...]

How does a self build mortgage work?

Should I speak to a specialist mortgage adviser?

Hi, I hope you can help. What would you suggest would be the most cost effective way to take a site from outline planning to full planning if we were looking at building 1 property but have 5 different house designs to choose from?

Can I change an existing wooden structure (more like a roofed terrace area, open on one side) to a brick structure within permitted developments? No change to square footage, but would need electrics, plumbing and heating (coverting to a games/bar/entertainment area). Thanks all.

Hi I am trying to work out if some work I am starting should be charged at the reduced rate. Its very confusing We have 2 agricultural outbuildings attached to my house that are semi derelict. We plan to knock them down and rebuild to give us either additional living space or potentially a holiday [...]

Dear Self-Builders: Can you advise on what a small self-builder can do to overcome the nitrates issue which is stopping all residential planning consents on the South Coast? I have an outline permission for a new house, but because of this issue of nitrates, I am prevented from getting the full permission until Natural England [...]

Hi Are the budget figures quoted in the guide inclusive of VAT? Regards David