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Keen to research your next self build, home extension or renovation project? Need specific advice or want to learn some hands-on skills?
There’s a wealth of events out there to help you make a success of your scheme – including our advice and inspiration-packed Build It Live shows.
Here’s our pick of key events on now for self builders and renovators:
When: 4th September 2025
Price: £40
Where: Virtual
Delivered by Mark Stevenson, Chair of NaCSBA, this online course will lead you through the key steps you’ll need to tick off the list when starting your self build or renovation. From developing the design into a buildable reality through to finalising surveys, preparing your plot, managing budgets and quotes, and how to assemble the right building team.
When: 6th September 2025
Price: £165
Where: NSBRC, Swindon
Delivered by Independent Heating and Energy Consultant, Rob Bohm, a leading authority in sustainable building and energy efficiency, this session is designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence needed to manage your renovation project effectively. Throughout the course, you’ll gain practical insights into every stage of the renovation process—from planning and project management to working with the right trades.
When: 13th September 2025
Price: £125
Where: Centre for Alternative Technology, Powys
If you’d like to install renewables in your home, but are unsure how, what option to go for, and what the likely costs and benefits are, this course will give you a broad overview to help you make your decision. Covering the basics of wind, solar PV, solar thermal, biomass and heat pumps, you will be able to identify which renewable technologies are best suited to your needs.
When: 13th and 14th September 2025
Price: £12
Where: Westpoint Arena, Exeter
Meet 100s of key suppliers, source the right materials for your project, attend free seminars, workshops and demonstrations, book one-to-one sessions with industry experts and buy yourself a plot of land, all under one roof at Build It Live!
When: 19th & 20th September 2025
Price: FREE
Where: Warwickshire
This open day will give you the opportunity to visit several locations showcasing the oak frame experience, so you can fully immerse yourself in how your oak frame would be built by Oakwrights. Expert craftspeople will guide you through the day, explaining the process, whilst also answering all of your questions. The tour will take approximately 2 hours.
When: 27th September 2025
Price: FREE
Where: NSBRC, Swindon
This half-day event designed to help homeowners, self-builders, and renovators explore the benefits, systems, and savings of harvesting rainwater. Whether you’re planning a new build, retrofitting an existing home, or simply want to reduce your water bills and environmental footprint, this informal clinic is the perfect opportunity to talk to the experts.
When: 3rd-5th October 2025
Price: £395
Where: NSBRC, Swindon
This comprehensive three-day course designed specifically for aspiring self-builders, with a range of experienced presenters covering everything from finding land to the finishing touches. With over 10 essential topics covered, this informal yet engaging course makes full use of the outstanding practical exhibits at the Centre. You’ll gain the insights and confidence needed to plan effectively, avoid costly mistakes, and take control of your homebuilding project.
When: 6th November 2025
Price: £40
Where: Virtual
Ready to submit your planning application? Delivered by Build It’s planning consultant, Julia Riddle, this course will arm you with the knowledge and strategies you need to win the permission you want. Covering everything from when you need planning permission through to how to apply, factors that will affect planning decisions and insider tactics to maximise your chance of success – this session is a must if you want to move forward with your project!
When: 2nd December 2025
Price: £40
Where: Virtual
In this course, Build It’s professional planning consultant, Julia Riddle, gives you a clear steer on the home renovation and extension projects you can complete without formal planning consent. Take a deep dive into the rules and restrictions around no-planning projects – from extensions and loft conversions through to energy-saving upgrades, replacement doors and windows, outbuildings, internal works and more.
When: 11th December 2025
Price: £40
Where: Virtual
In this course, Build It’s MD, Calum Taylor, will arm you with the tools you need to successfully manage a project – whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. This session covers everything from deciding how involved you want to be through to effective scheduling, budgeting and cashflow, assessing quotes and contractors, managing build quality, avoiding common project management mistakes and more.
When: 21st and 22nd February 2026
Price: £12
Where: Kent Event Centre, Maidstone
Meet 100s of key suppliers, source the right materials for your project, attend free seminars, workshops and demonstrations, book one-to-one sessions with industry experts and buy yourself a plot of land, all under one roof at Build It Live!
When: 30th and 31st May 2026
Price: £12
Where: The Three Counties Showground, Malvern
Brand new show for 2026! Meet 100s of key suppliers, source the right materials for your project, attend free seminars, workshops and demonstrations, book one-to-one sessions with industry experts and buy yourself a plot of land, all under one roof at Build It Live!
Do you have an event you think we might be interested in sharing with our readers? Email us the details!
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Hallo, i’ve just joined, and i wonder how you can submit relevant events for inclusion in this list please? Thankyou
Gemma
Hi Gemma. Thanks for your question – I’ve now added our email address to this page so you can get in touch with the team if you have an event you think may be relevant to our readers.
Chris (editor, Build It magazine)