Month: March 2020

Get Ready for a New Roof

It’s difficult to identify roofing problems in the winter. If your roof was looking a little worse for wear in the fall, it’s probably due for a replacement this spring. At the very least, a spring-time check up on your roof will help determine how well it faired the winter weather and if you need a repair or replacement.

While it is possible to get roof work done in the winter, spring and summer are really the best times to get it done. The warmer seasons are busy for Calgary roofers, so it’s recommended you book your consultation NOW to ensure you get things taken care of before another damaging winter arrives.

Fortress Roofing & Exteriors in Calgary shares more:

Why is a roof replacement better in the summer?

Obviously, roofers can work better when it’s not freezing cold outside. Winter roofing takes much more time, driving up labour costs, due to how slow you must work when it’s cold. Not only is it less safe for the roofers, but the roofing materials can also be easily damaged and are difficult to install in freezing temperatures.

When the sun is shining, shingles can be installed more easily without worrying about cracking or not adhering. The plywood beneath the shingles will be dry, eliminating the risk of trapping moisture and promoting mould or mildew growth. Roofers can work quickly and efficiently, keeping labour costs at a reasonable rate.

Fall is also a good time to get this job done, as far as the weather is concerned. Still, you don’t want to wait until the last minute to schedule your roof replacement. You might run into bad weather or miss out entirely due to roofers being fully booked. Booking your roof replacement now for springtime is the smartest idea.

The value of a roof replacement

A roof replacement will add value to your home. This report shows that a new asphalt roof can recover 65.9% of its cost at resale. That is a good return on investment compared to other home renovations. If you are planning to sell, home buyers will appreciate the new roof and it can help you stand out on the real estate market. Most buyers will not want to purchase a home that has an expensive but necessary home improvement project waiting in the wings.

A new roof will also improve curb appeal, which is important for selling your home. Even if you don’t plan on selling, you’ll enjoy how great your home will look with a new roof. You’ll also gain peace of mind knowing your home is protected from the elements and that you’ve helped your home retain and even gain value.

Exterior Renovations and Roofers in Calgary

Fortress Roofing & Exteriors is a locally owned, family-run business that serves Calgary and the surrounding area. They offer full exterior renovations, including roofing, siding, gutters, windows and storm damage services. Fortress Roofing & Exteriors are dedicated to providing you with outstanding service, quality workmanship, and superior professionalism. They’ll get the job done right the first time.

Book your roofing project before spring arrives! Contact Fortress Roofing & Exteriors.

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Sustainable Housing Oasis in London Looks to Promote Renewable Energy

A sustainable housing development in London is striving to create next-generation homes that reduce impact on the natural environment. 

Eden House, described as a sustainable oasis in the heart of London, has been developed by Fornacelli Homes. It comprises four mews houses and five apartments, and is surrounded by a supportive infrastructure including restaurants and shops.

Having a strong focus on sustainability, Eden House is powered by renewable energy harnessed from solar panels fitted in the roof. The 42 Sunpower solar panels can each generate 400W, which provides efficient energy to the building’s residents when they need it.

Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery (MVHR) will provide an ambient temperature year-round, all the properties will include an outside space, and the external and internal green walls help to purify the air and improve London’s biodiversity. 

The cladding is impressive too: a mix of cedar cladding, London stock brick and zinc cladding, while textured render which envelops the building helps to protect it, as well as reduce energy bills and carbon dioxide emissions. 

Gian-Franco Cencelli, director of Fornacelli Homes, said: “Our aim is to prove that sustainable homes can be stylish and beautifully designed. Eden House is a beacon of tranquillity a stone’s throw from London’s cultural hub. It is one of the first carbon-neutral developments in London and we are incredibly proud of the finished result.” 

Eden House is located in Crouch End, North London, and was designed in collaboration with interior design company Mood London Design. 

What are the Benefits of Sustainable Homes?

Self builders can make notable savings on their long-term energy demands, and thus energy costs, by integrating renewable technology for heat and power into their project.

(MORE: Self Build: The Complete Guide)

Upgrading your home’s energy rating can lower carbon emissions and tackle climate change, and also increase your home’s value by up to £25,000

Developments such as Eden House, West Carclaze Garden Village and Derwent Forest are showing how sustainable building projects can improve our living conditions and have a transformative impact on the environment. 

Wednesday’s Budget revealed the government remains committed to reach net zero emissions by 2050, and it plans to deliver a revolution in green housing.

Housing secretary Robert Jenrick confirmed the government will introduce a Future Homes Standard from 2025, which will require up to 80% lower carbon emissions for all new homes. This, the report says, will help to bring an environmental revolution to homebuilding, tackling climate change while keeping household bills low.

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

Gigabit-Speed Broadband Will be Mandatory in New Homes

New homes will come equipped with gigabit-speed broadband, the government has announced today.

Digital secretary Oliver Dowden has confirmed that legislation will be passed to ensure that developers are legally required to install world-class broadband speeds.

The announcement follows chancellor Rishi Sunak’s pledge in the Budget last week to invest £5bn into rolling out full fibre broadband across the UK. 

Currently, one in five new homes are built without the connections needed for gigabit-speed broadband, but it will become a legal requirement that internet speeds of 1,000 megabit per second (Mbps) are integrated. 

Mr Dowden said: “This legislation means every new home will be built fit for the future and give people access to world-class broadband speeds from the moment they move in.

“It’s all part of our plan to deliver on our commitment to give everyone in the UK access to gigabit broadband, as we connect and level up the country.”

How Will The Plan Work?

The government will incentivise developers to follow the plan, by working with operators to secure commitments to contributing towards the cost of installing gigabyte broadband in new homes.

Virgin Media will contribute at least £500 per dwelling and up to £1,000 for larger sites, while Openreach which will supply a combined contribution with developers of £3,400. This contribution will be used to cap developers’ contribution per home at £2,000. The government expects to have agreement from other operators in the coming weeks.

The policy will ensure gigabit-capable connections are deployed in 99% of total new build homes, the government says.

Once the legislation is passed, as soon as parliamentary time permits, it will remove the need to retrospectively install broadband infrastructure and reduce disruption and high costs.

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said: “Today’s announcement will deliver internet speeds 200 times faster than you would need to watch an HD film on Netflix.

Why is Broadband Speed a Priority?

Having access to fast broadband is a priority shared by homeowners and aspiring homeowners alike. 

Two thirds of British homeowners prioritise access to fast broadband over living close to good nurseries and schools, it was reported last year. And the smart home boom being embraced by self builders is enabling more technology to be integrated than ever before, which is particularly important as more and more people work from home in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. 

(MORE: Smart home solutions for every budget)

This is therefore a decision that could be received very positively by aspiring homeowners. 

“We welcome the government’s announcement that all new build homes will be required to have the infrastructure to support gigabit-capable connections, and we will work closely with the government and housebuilders on the best way to deliver this,” said Openreach chief executive Clive Selley.

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

5 Tips for Improving Your Home’s Eco-Friendliness: Plumbing Edition

There are many ways to improve your home’s eco-friendliness, but one of the best places to start is with your plumbing system. 

From changing up your day-to-day routine to making updates to your home, there are a few things that you can do to conserve water and improve your home’s environmental footprint.

Eco-Friendly Plumbing Tips

1. Fix Leaky Faucets and Pipes 

Aside from changing your habits to save more water, when is the last time you contacted a local plumbing services company to inspect your home? They can inspect all of your pipes to ensure that they are well-maintained and can fix any leaking faucets to help you conserve water.

2. Choose a Front-Load Washer

Front-load washers tend to be much more energy-efficient than the standard top-load models. The front-load models typically use less water and electricity than traditional styles.

In fact, they tend to use about 13 gallons less per load! That’s a huge improvement in comparison and can make a big difference for your bills and for your home’s eco-friendly plumbing solutions.

3. Opt for Water-Saving Toilets

Replacing old, outdated toilets with newer, water-conserving models can reduce your home’s water usage by 20 to 60 percent. This change alone can amount to more than $140 in water savings per year. 

4. Install Flow-Optimizing Showerheads and Faucets

Choosing showerheads and faucets with lower gallons per minute (GPM) is an easy way to save more water at home. Swapping old fixtures for new eco-friendly plumbing options can save up to 30% more water.

5. Update Your Dishwasher

Finally, you should consider looking into updating your dishwasher. ENERGY STAR-certified dishwashers cost just $35 a year to run and can save almost 4,000 gallons of water over their lifetimes.

Ready to start conserving water? Handyman Connection can help will all of these eco-friendly updates and more – find our expert home plumbing services near you today.  

Final Thoughts: Other Easy Ways to Conserve Water at Home

  • Cut showers to 5 minutes – The average showerhead uses 2.5 gallons per minute. Cutting showers from 10 minutes to 5 minutes can save you 4,500 gallons per year.
  • Improve your landscape watering system – Watering by hand or investing in an eco-friendly irrigation system for your landscaping can help you avoid forgetting to shut the sprinkler off.

Ready to Save More Water at Home? Handyman Connection is Here to Help

Reach out to Handyman Connection today! Our suite of general handyman services, including plumbing, can ensure everything is up to code, saving you more on water and energy bills in the long run.

The post 5 Tips for Improving Your Home’s Eco-Friendliness: Plumbing Edition appeared first on Handyman Connection.

What Do Permitted Development Proposals Mean for Self Builders and Renovators?

Housing secretary Robert Jenrick shook up the housing sector on Thursday when he followed up Wednesday’s Budget with the announcement of a series of measures to improve homebuilding, such as speeding up the planning system, and supporting self builders in finding plots.

(MORE: Robert Jenrick announces planning reforms)

There were many measures proposed, and one that stood out was the potential extension of Permitted Development (PD) rights, so what could this mean for those building from scratch, extending or renovating a house?

The potential PD changes fall under two main strands: 

  • The government will introduce new rights for building upwards on existing buildings by summer 2020
  • A consultation will be held on potential PD rights to allow vacant buildings to be demolished and replaced with new homes. 

(MORE: Self Build: The Complete Guide)

Permitted Development: Extending Upwards

Regarding that first update, the new rights will enable building upwards, including extending residential blocks, by up to two storeys. The majority of projects which involve extending upwards currently require planning permission to ensure a design fits within the neighbourhood and that neighbours have no objections. 

(MORE: Building an Extension: A Beginner’s Guide)

The loosening of the rules, which was initially proposed last year, could theoretically make it easier for homeowners to expand their homes upwards, and provide greater leeway to extend.

However, there is concern that this could negatively impact communities, leading to a rise in poorly-designed buildings, with no formal route for neighbours to object.

Unfortunately, detail is as scarce now as it was last year about what this will mean for home improvers.

Sally Tagg, Managing Director at Foxley Tagg and planning expert for both Homebuilding & Renovating and NaCSBA, said: “It is possible that the expansion of PD to permit the extension of properties upwards by adding extra storeys could benefits those wishing to extend their home. However, we do not know what caveats and restrictions will be placed on this.

Clearly the announcements are high-level in that they are light on detail at this point. And as ever the devil will be in the detail.”

Tagg added that while this could yet be a positive move for homeowners, other homeowners could be more negatively affected.

Such an expansion has the potential to adversely affect homeowners if it permits large and unattractive extensions to a neighbour’s property, which has the potential to adversely affect one’s amenity through loss of light, loss of privacy and the creation of a sense of overbearing. As such, any new PD provision that impacts upon the opportunities for neighbours who may be adversely impacted to have their say needs to be treated with caution.

David Renard, planning spokesman for the Local Government Association, said the government should not “take away more of the powers councils and communities need over planning”, expressing his concern about the impact of this potential change.

Replacing Vacant Buildings

The second proposal will involve a consultation into allowing empty buildings to be demolished and replaced with housing without the need for a planning application.

If this proposal gets the green light, it could theoretically lead to increased numbers of affordable homes, providing housing for those struggling to get onto the housing ladder. The only reportedly stipulation so far for these new builds is that they are well-designed new residential units which meet natural light standards. How this will be policed has yet to be revealed.

Adrian Dobson, professional services director at the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) said that allowing the demolition and replacement of industrial and commercial property is a contradiction to the government’s plans to their commitment to delivering high-quality housing.

“Current rules allow developers to create housing which fails to meet even the most basic spatial, quality and environmental standards,” he said. 

“Rather than driving a green housing revolution, the government’s plans to allow the demolition and replacement of industrial and commercial property with housing under permitted development would make it easier to build the slums of the future.”

Tagg stressed that caution should be exercised before any conclusions are made as to what this will mean for the housing sector. “Again, we need to see further detail to even begin to consider the potential implications.”

Will the outcomes of this consultation prospectively affect self builders? Tagg says it’s too soon to tell, but believes opportunities will be unlikely, rather the amendments would be aimed at developers who will demolish and rebuild entire blocks.

“In order to ensure that this mechanism is not used by some to develop poor build quality and designed homes for the future there needs to be carefully worded provisions within the PD criteria. The difficulty is that there have been some poor examples of housing derived from office conversions where there are no space standards on conversions. To avoid this being repeated, careful consideration of these issues needs to be built in.

“With the caveats of the above, there may be an opportunity for group self-build and co-housing but led by enablers, again though this will be hugely dependent upon the details, but it would be a potential reuse of previously developed land and in urban settings these could be a sustainable option to bring land back into use.”

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

Master Bathroom Sink Ideas for 2020

Thinking about upgrading your master bath sink vanity? Where do you begin? Choosing the right master bathroom sink can be a tough decision, but we are here to help!

Handyman Connection offers expert home plumbing services and can help install any style sink for your master bathroom. If you need help deciding, here are a few sink ideas to consider that just might make you fall in love with your master bathroom all over again. 

Top Master Bathroom Sink Ideas and Tips for Choosing One

1. Freestanding Sinks

Taking up very little room, freestanding or pedestal sinks are very stylish. If your master bathroom is short on space, a freestanding sink may be the perfect option to open the room up. 

The only downside is that freestanding sinks do not offer the storage space that a traditional vanity does. Only choose this sink for your master bathroom if you have enough storage space without an under-cabinet vanity.

2. Trough-Style with Two Faucets

Did you know that trough-style sinks offer a luxurious, open feel in modern bathrooms? Combined with the clean lines of an open-concept shower and freestanding soaking tub, a trough-style sink is a great idea for those looking to achieve a spa-like feel in their master bathrooms.

If you’re looking to maximize your bathroom’s counter space area, this may not be the sink for you.

3. Bucket Sinks

Bucket sinks are wall-mounted sinks designed to replicate the old-timey feel of the sinks in the early 20th century. Why do these sinks look great? They are often fitted with matte black or brass faucet fixtures and can pull off the look in any modern or black-and-white bathrooms. They also offer more of a country-style vibe than other modern options. 

However, like the traditional pedestal sinks, only choose this master bathroom sink idea if you have enough storage in other places. These sinks do not have under-cabinet storage space. 

4. Square Undermount Sinks 

Square under-mount sinks are a rectangular twist on traditional circular vanity sinks. These sinks sit below the level of your counter and are a great master bathroom sink option for those looking for maximum counter space with a bit of stylish flair. 

You really can’t go wrong with a square under-mount sink. This design looks great combined with a number of mirrors, countertop, and top options. Besides that, these sinks also offer the under-cabinet storage space that other modern sinks do not. 

5. Vessel Sinks

Finally, vessel sinks are some of the most popular modern master bathroom sink ideas of 2020. Made from a variety of materials including ceramic, stone, and metal, vessel sinks simply consist of a bowl basin attached to a vanity cabinet. They can be doubled up across one large vanity surface, or placed atop two separate vanity cabinets for a “his and hers” setup. 

Call Handyman Connection for Your Next Bathroom Sink Upgrade

From new sink installations to full-on bathroom remodels, Handyman Connection is your connection to the top home plumbing services in your area. We’ll provide an upfront quote for our services at the start and walk you through the process step by step for a seamless experience. To work with one of our expert plumbing craftsmen, request a free estimate today.

The post Master Bathroom Sink Ideas for 2020 appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Self Build Wales Launch Event Showcases How to Build Your Own Home

Aspiring self builders can learn all about building their own home at the Self Build Wales launch event this month, and discover how the scheme breaks down barriers that self builders face.

The Self Build Wales launch event on 21 March will enable budding self builders, as well as builders and architects, to speak to experts about the Self Build Wales scheme, its benefits, and how to apply.

Visitors will be guided through Self Build Wales’ four-step process, with a full breakdown of how building your own home will work under the scheme. 

The launch event will be held from 10:00am – 3:00pm on 21 March at Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. You can register for the event here.

What is Self Build Wales?

Self Build Wales is a groundbreaking scheme that provides self and custom builders with a complete package of financial support, and access to land with planning permission already granted

The scheme is designed to appeal to as many people as possible, including first-time buyers and growing families, and aims to provide a route for people to live in their local area, especially if they haven’t previously been able to afford to buy there. 

“We want to make self build available to many more people in Wales, not just the most privileged households,” said housing and local government minister Julie James.

Andrew Baddeley-Chappell, chief executive of the National Custom and Self Build Association (NaCSBA), said: “Self Build Wales addresses an important challenge for self builders: the ability to build when they have a limited deposit, and it adds certainty by providing plots with agreed planning permission and set prices.”

How Does Self Build Wales Work?

The core of the self build scheme is the so-called plot shop, which involves local authorities identifying plot opportunities and selling them with planning permission already in place.

The scheme is being financed by the Welsh government, with funding to be administered by the Development Bank of Wales. 

Applicants will only need to pay 25% of the cost of a plot. The remaining 75% is covered through a self build development loan issued by the Development Bank of Wales, which also covers the full cost of building the property. Repayments only need to be made once the house is completed and mortgaged.

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

VAT on a New Build: Can I Reclaim?

With all the planning, decision making and, in some cases, actual building involved in bring your homebuilding vision to life, it is quite easy for self builders to forget to reclaim VAT on their new build house under HMRC’s DIY Housebuilder’s Scheme.

But if you want your self build project to be financially successful, this stage is vital.

As long as your project is eligible and you keep all the necessary receipts to submit with your claim, you could reclaim the 20% of the total project budget accounted for by VAT.

This article will explain all you need to know about reclaiming VAT — from the aspects of the project that you can reclaim on, what documentation you will need to provide and most importantly, which projects are eligible.

(MORE: The Complete Guide to Self Build)

What are the Rules When Reclaiming VAT on a New Build?

The DIY Housebuilders Scheme (Notice VAT431NB for new builds and Notice VAT431C for conversions) allows you to reclaim VAT from HMRC that you have paid out for your project if you are:

  • building a new house
  • converting a building into a new dwelling
  • bringing an existing dwelling that has not been lived in for 10 years back in to use.

Which Projects are Eligible?

To be eligible, the project has to create a new dwelling in its own right. Extensions, refurbishments and annexes, do not create a new dwelling in their own right, and so are not eligible.

Your project must be lawful, for personal occupation by you or a family member and evidence of completion must be provided. Some planning permissions include conditions or restrictions on use or occupancy, which may mean that the project is not eligible.

If your project changes in nature during the course of works (e.g. from an extension to a demolition and new build), then to be eligible you must obtain planning permission confirming this before works continue.

For every self build, HMRC will request to see:

  • valid planning permission, including your detailed plans
  • evidence of completion (usually a completion certificate, habitation certificate or a valuation office listing letter)

Only one claim is allowed and all relevant documentation and invoices (which we’ll come onto) have to be submitted to HMRC within three months of your completion certificate being issued.

You will usually get the refund within 30 working days of sending in the claim.


How Much VAT Can I Reclaim on my Self Build?

Many self builders regularly overlook this area, but you should ensure that you are charged the correct rate(s) of VAT on all costs associated with your project.

Getting this right is very important, as HMRC will not refund any VAT that has been incorrectly charged.

For new builds, conversions, and renovations that bring a dwelling that has not been lived in for 10 years back into use as a dwelling:

  • The supply of materials only is always at the standard rate of VAT, which is currently 20% (5% on some energy items). You can recover all of the VAT incurred on eligible materials via the scheme
  • The supply of labour only or the joint supply of labour and materials should be at the zero rate (0%) for new builds and at the reduced rate, currently 5%, for conversions and renovations that bring a dwelling that has not been lived in for 10 years back into use as a dwelling. At the end of the project, the owner can reclaim the 5% VAT on eligible joint supply of labour and materials.

Get (and Keep!) All Invoices

Obtain and keep all relevant invoices to ensure that you can recover all eligible VAT.

Remember, you can recover the eligible VAT on invoices that include both eligible and non-eligible items.


What Projects Can I Reclaim VAT On?

The type of projects you can reclaim VAT on under the DIY Housebuilders’ scheme include:

  • New builds. Creating a new dwelling built from scratch, providing it is to be used by you or your relatives as a family home for residential or holiday purposes. Any existing building must be demolished to ground level. Where required by planning consent, an existing façade can be retained
  • Garages for use with the new dwelling and covered by planning permission at the same time
  • Conversions that create a new dwelling. Converting a non-residential building, for example, a barn, old church, business premises, into a new dwelling
  • Renovations that bring a dwelling that has not been lived in for 10 years back into use as a dwelling
  • If the new build or conversion is a holiday home for you and your family’s personal use
  • Landscaping and outside works covered by your planning permission. This may include paving, fencing, turf and shrubs, and so on.

Which Projects Can I Not Claim VAT Back On?

  • Extensions and self-contained accommodation (for example, a granny annexe) that do not create an independent dwelling in their own right, unless built at the same time as part of a new dwelling
  • Separate buildings that are part of your planning permission, apart from a garage — for example, a garden store or a detached swimming pool building
  • Refurbishments of existing dwellings (unless empty for 10 years)
  • A new dwelling constructed for any business use, such as a holiday rental or buy to let

Which Materials Can I Claim VAT Back On?

Examples of the materials you can claim VAT back under the DIY Housebuilders’ scheme:

  • All materials normally incorporated in a new dwelling — all construction materials, for example, concrete, blocks, bricks, insulation, sand, cement, plaster, timber, roofing, stairs, windows, guttering, doors, paint, etc
  • Electrical and plumbing materials
  • Fitted furniture such as kitchen units and worktops   
  • Extractor fans
  • Fittings, such as light fittings, wooden floor systems, linoleum, floor tiles, door furniture, fireplaces and fires, fixed towel rails, mirrors, solar panels, boilers, sewage treatment plants, TV aerials, curtain poles
  • Swimming pools and saunas inside or linked to the new dwelling
  • Delivery charge included on an invoice for materials

Materials you Cannot Claim VAT Back on Include:

  • Equipment hire, for example, scaffolding, JCB hire (machine only), WC hire, etc
  • Consumables, for example, paint brushes, hand tools, etc
  • Professional fees, for example, architects’ fees, Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) Calculations, project manager
  • Kitchen appliances, including those integrated, for example hob, oven, dishwasher
  • Bedroom furniture, bathroom furniture, such as vanity units and free-standing units
  • Carpets
  • Delivery costs, when separately invoiced by a courier

Getting Advice on Reclaiming VAT on a New Build

Many tradespeople and contractors are not experienced in dealing with the VAT rules on new builds and eligible conversions.

They sometimes say: ‘it doesn’t matter now, as you will get the VAT back at the end anyway’.

However, this is not true. Don’t leave it to the contractor.

If you are unsure of any aspect of VAT on your project, engage the services of a professional to help you get it right.

Special Circumstances

  • Renovations to dwellings empty for two years or more are eligible for the reduced rate of VAT of 5% via a VAT-registered contractor
  • Works involving a net change in the number of dwelling units are also eligible for the reduced rate of VAT of 5%. Examples include converting two cottages into one house or reverting three flats back into a house
  • Some adaptations work to alter a house for someone who is disabled is zero rated for VAT.

The Importance of Valid VAT Invoices

Ensure you retain all valid VAT invoices, as the originals must be submitted to HMRC with your claim.

Electronic payment receipts and emails confirming orders are not valid VAT invoices and so any VAT paid is potentially lost.

Invoices should include:

  • the supplier name
  • their VAT number
  • the invoice date
  • a description of the goods supplied (and services if applicable)
  • the value of the invoice

If one of your tradespeople/contractors uses their trade account to source your materials and so is in their name, ensure that you pay the supplier direct and keep the evidence, as it will be required.

The VAT incurred on invoices from VAT-registered suppliers in the EU can be claimed too, as long as the invoice includes the relevant information (including their VAT number).

Many purchases are made online these days, so ensure that you obtain a valid VAT invoice when buying, as this may prove difficult to obtain at a later date.


How to Reclaim VAT – Summary

  • Ensure your project is eligible
  • Ensure that you are charged the correct rates of VAT on all invoices
  • Don’t ask a non-VAT registered contractor to supply materials, as you won’t be able to reclaim VAT on those materials
  • Ensure that you are charged the zero rate of VAT on the supply of labour only and the joint supply of labour and materials on new builds
  • Obtain valid VAT invoices as you go and keep them safely together
  • Keep all of your relevant invoices together
  • Ensure your claim is made within three months of completion
  • Engage the services of a professional to ensure you recover the maximum amount of VAT and so minimise its impact on your budget

About the Author

Andrew McDonald (MAAT FCCA) is a qualified accountant who has built his own house.

He prepares and submits VAT claims for domestic clients and assists clients who require VAT advice throughout their project.

He also deals with HMRC reviews and appeals, and tribunal cases following rejected VAT claims.

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

Renovation Ideas for a Luxurious Kitchen

Make this year the year you finally renovate the kitchen. You can transform your dated and nonfunctional kitchen into the luxurious kitchen of your dreams, and you don’t have to break the bank to do so either! Cross Iron Contracting in Edmonton is a full-service renovation and construction company that specializes in kitchen renovations. They share some creative ways to add cost-effective luxury to your kitchen renovation.

Choose modern light fixtures.

Old light fixtures can really date a kitchen. If you still have a giant stain-glassed fixture, it’s time for a change. New fixtures come in a wide price range and you can find something beautiful that will suit your kitchen renovation design. View these modern light fixture images for inspiration.

Get new countertops.

The kitchen countertop is a focal point and can play a big role in how the kitchen looks. Granite or quartz countertops are the best choices, but if natural stone isn’t in your budget you do have some other good options. Laminate is the most affordable and now comes in a wide range of styles that can mimic the look of natural stone. Solid surface is a mid-range choice and gives the same appearance as quartz, but for less cost.

Apply a fresh coat of paint.

Painting the room is the easiest way to give it a facelift. A fresh coat of paint will make the space feel clean, modern and rejuvenated. Choose light, neutral colours for the kitchen. They will be more timeless than bold and vibrant colours, which means you won’t have to repaint sooner than later. Neutral colours are also more attractive to home buyers and this can come in handy if you decide to sell down the road.

If you are dissatisfied with your cabinetry, you can also choose cabinet refinishing over a whole replacement. This can only be done if the cabinet boxes and doors are still in good shape. If not, you’ll need to speak with your contractor about a cabinet replacement.

Old Strathcona Kitchen Renovation

Remember that accessories go a long way.

Have you noticed how luxury show homes always have perfectly placed décor and accessories in the kitchen? It might be a bowl of fruit on the counter, a simple plant on the kitchen table or a sleek mat near the sink. Look at some images online of kitchens you really like and copy their décor ideas. This slideshow has some great ideas for décor and kitchen designs.

Kitchen Renovations in Edmonton

Cross Iron Contracting operates on a basis of high quality of work, adherence to schedule and environmental awareness. From the design stages, through construction to the finished product, you’ll love your new kitchen. If you’ve been thinking about renovating, connect with the professionals at Cross Iron Contracting.

Contact them here!

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Tips for Picking Paint Colours

Ready to change the look of your home’s interior? Painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to completely transform your home’s look and style. Not sure where to get started? Walls Revived Inc. in Edmonton shares some tips for choosing paint colours.

Determine the mood of each room.

Think about how you want to feel when you are spending time in a room. In your bedroom, you might want to choose colours that make you feel relaxed and restful. Choosing soft, cool colours or neutral tones will give the room a quieter mood. For the living room or dining area, you could choose contrasting and bolder colours to add a more vibrant atmosphere for socializing or neutral colours to create a blank slate for highlighting your furniture or home décor.

Consider the lighting.

The lighting in each room can change the way your chosen paint colour looks. For example, rooms with lots of windows and natural daylight will show the truest colour where incandescent lighting can make your colour look warmer with a yellowish tone and fluorescent lighting could create a blueish tone. If you’re not sure about how the lighting will affect your paint colour choices, consult with the design professionals at Walls Revived Inc.

Use the colour wheel as a reference.

A colour wheel can be a great way to compare different colours with each other. It can help you determine which colours combinations will look good together. You’ll find colour palettes you actually like the most. A colour wheel can also help you visualize the temperature of a colour. Learn how to use a colour wheel to help you understand how to best mix and match a cool colour with a warm one for a naturally balanced room.

Test your colour choice.

Sometimes looking at colour samples on a paint chip doesn’t give you a clear idea of how it’s going to look on your walls.  You can test your favourite colours on a poster board or on the wall itself. You could even paint a few strips of different colours side by side so you can see how each colour looks in the room and in different lighting throughout the day.

Get professional advice from painters in Edmonton.

Consulting with a professional painting company can be beneficial in helping you choose the right paint colours for your home’s interior. They know colour and can help you choose colours that best reflect your personal taste, complement each other and create the perfect ambiance in every room of the house.

Painters in Edmonton

The certified professionals at Walls Revived have over 10 years of experience. From decks, fences, interior walls, doors, trim and cabinet refinishing, Walls Revived will deliver superior painting services. A paint job can completely rejuvenate the look and feel of your home, inside and out. Ready to get started?

Contact Walls Revived Inc. today!

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This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

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