Month: March 2020

Robert Jenrick Announces Planning Reforms to Improve Homebuilding

Housing secretary Robert Jenrick has announced a series of reforms to improve homebuilding in England, and the measures could positively impact self builders, renovators, extenders and aspiring homeowners.

The updates include:

  • New Permitted Development (PD) rights will be introduced this summer for building upwards on existing buildings. 
  • A pledged to support community and self build housing
  • Speeding up the planning permission system
  • A reaffirmed commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050
  • Investing £400m to use brownfield land productively
  • Reviewing the government’s policy for building in areas at flood risk

The government’s Planning for the Future document says

Permitted Development Changes

Mr Jenrick has announced new PD rights for building upwards on existing buildings, including extending residential blocks, by up to two storeys. These will be announced in the summer, it has been confirmed.

The announcement elaborates on the government’s pledge last year to waive planning permission on two-storey extensions, but its reception among industry experts is mixed.

On the one hand, this could provide homeowners with greater leeway to extend their homes, and homeowners would no longer be required to seek approval from neighbours. 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.

Helen Hayes, Labour Member of Parliament for Dulwich & West Norwood, said: “Expansion of permitted development rights is an unmitigated disaster for many communities – yet instead of stopping this harmful policy, govt is proposing to extend PDR under banner of ‘planning freedoms’ to allow upwards extension & demolition without full planning permission.”

There will also be a consultation on the detail of a new PD right which will allow vacant commercial buildings, industrial buildings and residential blocks to be demolished, and replaced with new residential units which meet natural light standards. 

Focusing on Self Build

In a very welcome move for the self build sector, Mr Jenrick also pledged to support community and self build housing. 

The self build industry has been awaiting an update to the Conservative Party’s General Election manifesto, which promised to help first-time self builders access the Help to Buy scheme using 5% deposit mortgages, and while there was no elaboration on this pledge, it is encouraging that removing barriers facing self build is being addressed.

“We will support those who want to build their own homes to find plots of land and provide help to parish councils and neighbourhood forums who wish to build a small number of homes to allow their communities to grow organically, providing homes for the next generation and those wishing to downsize,” the report says. 

Speeding up the Planning System

As part of its outline to speed up the planning system – which has faced criticism for the government will deliver automatic rebates where planning applications are successful at appeal. This means that where applications are refused, applications will be entitled to an automatic rebate of the planning application fee, subject to a successful appeal. 

This will promote proper consideration of applications by planning committees, the government says. 

There will also be a Planning White Paper released in the spring which will propose measures to accelerate planning, and utilise new technologies to modernise the system.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders, said: “The current planning system is a major barrier for small house builders, so today’s announcement that it will be brought into the 21st century through digitisation and simplification is a victory for common sense.”

The government will also work with local authorities, small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) homebuilders, the construction industry and others this summer, to shape a long-term reform of the planning system and housing market. 

Net Zero Emissions

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050, and plans to deliver a revolution in green housing.

It 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.

Brownfield Investment

In order to build more homes for local people, the government has revealed it will invest £400m to use brownfield sites productively.

It also confirmed that ministers will work with local authorities to regenerate brownfield land and deliver the homes communities need on land which is already developed.

Flood Risk Defences

With inclement weather affecting many homes this year, the government has acted to shore up its flood risk strategy.

It will review its policy for building in areas at risk of flooding, and seek to ensure that communities across the country are aware that future development is flood proof.

In Wednesday’s Budget, Chancellor Rishi Sunak also announced a £5.2bn investment in additional flood defences across the country.

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

Fast Track Your Plot Search With New Plotfinder Pro Service

The UK’s leading website for buying and selling land or renovation opportunities, Plotfinder, is launching a new email service that provides in-depth advice to anyone locating, purchasing and developing plots. And for a limited time, you can get free access to the first email to give you a taste of what to expect.

During Plotfinder’s 20 year history, it has helped thousands of people to fulfil their self build and renovation ambitions.

Plotfinder connects those looking for land or renovation opportunities with thousands of estate agents and auction houses across the UK, providing aspiring self builders or renovators with a one-stop shop for plots or properties requiring renovation.

For a limited time, Plotfinder is offering free access to its new Plotfinder Pro service. Plotfinder Pro subscribers will receive a weekly in-depth email bulletin on topics such as planning permission, build techniques, new products and finance.

Additionally, Plotfinder Pro subscribers will get:

  • Exclusive expert insight from industry experts 
  • Full access to details of all plots and renovation opportunities listed on Plotfinder
  • Two free tickets to any Homebuilding & Renovating Shows, worth up to £216 per year

Among the industry experts offering advice is Michael Homes, an experienced self builder and renovator who is chair of NaCSBA, presenter of multiple property TV shows, and the author of Renovating for Profit.

To offer a taste of what to expect, Plotfinder is offering free access to the first few emails. You can join Plotfinder Pro for just £8.50 a month.

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

Choosing flooring: product benefits and design considerations

Changing the flooring in your home will drastically change the look of the space and it’s a worthwhile investment. With so many flooring products to choose from, making a choice can be a difficult decision. From carpet, hardwood, and vinyl, each come with their benefits for your home. Nufloors Sherwood Park shares information three popular flooring types, including products available, their benefits and design considerations.

Carpet

There are a few different kinds of carpet textiles to consider:

Looped: Looped carpet hides patterns and footprints that might be made from vacuuming or foot traffic.

Patterned: Patterned carpet adds a unique design, offering different tones, patterns, or floral designs.

Textured: Textured carpet is a simple option that will blend with any space, making it an easy choice for any room.

Frieze: Frieze carpet will withstand the test of time because it’s hard-wearing, and a good choice for busier areas in your home.

Carpet as a flooring choice is a great one, especially for bedrooms, living rooms, and family rooms. It’s is easy to maintain with a good vacuum cleaner, is a good cushion for feet, and reduces noise generation. A quality carpet flooring can make a room both stylish and comfortable, and there is a wide range of price options available to suit every budget.

Hardwood

There are two main kinds of hardwood available:

Solid: Solid hardwood is solid wood that is typically nailed or stapled to a wooden subfloor.

Engineered: Engineered hardwood is 100% wood, made by bonding and layering wood together to create different patterns and textiles.

These two options look the same, but engineered hardwood cannot be refinished in the same way hardwood can. You can refinish a solid hardwood numerous times over the years, but an engineered hardwood floor can’t be refinished passed the top layer. While wood floors might have more maintenance requirements, it will add warmth and a timeless style to your home. Both wood flooring types come in many different wood types, colors, styles, and patterns, allowing you to choose exactly what you need for your home’s design.

Vinyl

When choosing vinyl, you have the choice of the following:

Sheet: Sheet vinyl comes in one large sheet.

Luxury tile: Luxury vinyl tile is a warmer, softer flooring option. It mimics the look of real stone tile.

Luxury plank: Luxury vinyl plank has the appearance of wood flooring, without the maintenance requirements and price tag.

Vinyl flooring is easy to install, and incredibly water-resistant, making it a good choice for family living. It’s durable and can withstand the business of your home. It’s ideally installed in kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, and other living spaces where moisture is expected. Sheet vinyl is easy on your feet, and easy to maintain. The luxury vinyl choices offer the same qualities as a sheet but give your home a more high-end look, and a little more style, while still being on a budget.

Flooring Companies in Edmonton

Nufloors offers a wide and impressive range of flooring styles, colors, textures, and finishes. They have most products available on the market and offer great service because they’re a medium-sized flooring shop with the buying power of a big chain. They have 24 shops each individually owned in their group.

For more information, check out Nufloors Sherwood Park today!

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Click to Find >>> Edmonton Flooring Stores

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What you should look for when hiring cleaning services in Edmonton

Hiring a professional cleaning service has many benefits. Whether it’s for your home, business or for after a renovation, an experienced cleaning company will give spotless results – at no hassle to you. But how do you know which cleaning service to hire? Who’s the best? Here are some questions to ask when looking for the best cleaning service from Duty Cleaners in Edmonton.

Does the company have great reviews?

Positive reviews are one of the first things to check for. Reading the reviews will give you a broad idea of how the company operates. Not only that, but people will often say which part they liked the most from the company. That way, you know what to expect. A company with many negative reviews may be worth avoiding. It shows that they left customers unsatisfied with their work, and you may be more likely to experience problems.

Another way to get an honest review is to check a third-party service, such as RenovationFind. If a company is seeking membership or certification from a third-party, it usually means they’re serious about maintaining a good reputation with quality work and excellent customer service.

Do they offer online booking?

Online booking is more than a perk: It’s a convenient way to make appointments quickly. A company that may not have online booking may be more difficult to get a hold of. Their hours may vary, or you may be left on hold, making it more challenging to get in. With Duty Cleaners’ online booking system, you fill out a simple form that includes letting them know what services you require. You’ll see their flat-rate pricing and your service will be booked in a matter of minutes.

Are they locally owned?

A locally owned business has many benefits. In many cases, you’ll get a personal, friendly experience because the company working for you is a member of the community. It also means their staff are carefully vetted, trained and hired in-house. Customer service is more likely to be a priority because local businesses often work to improve their community, and they care about their reputation among their local area. Plus, if there is a concern, you know that your call is going to a locally owned business in your community – not a head office of a big chain in another province.

Do they have the proper business license and insurance?

For any business to operate, they need proper licensing and insurance. Clients are allowed to ask these kinds of questions and should feel welcome to do so. Check to see if their licensing and insurance are up to date; doing this will further ensure that they are a reliable company to work with. Checking for proper insurance also means you are covered if there is an accident in, or damage to, your home that is related to the cleaning service.

Renovation Cleaning in Edmonton

Duty Cleaners is a dedicated company. Their utmost priority is customer service. All staff go through extensive background checks and are friendly, easy-to-talk-to professionals you’ll feel comfortable having in your home or business. They communicate with their clients through every step of the way. Not only that, but they offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you aren’t completely satisfied with their work.

If you’re interested in quality cleaning services, contact Duty Cleaners today!

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RenovationFind Certified is a symbol of integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, maintenance.  It increases consumer confidence in your business, giving you an edge over your competition while validating you like the best.
More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest-growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, service, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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

The benefits of metal roofing

Interlock Metal Roofs Strong

Time for a new roof? Changing the roofing on your home is a big expense. You want the best roofing materials and installation possible to ensure your home and investment are protected. While your first thought may be shingles or asphalt, another option to consider is metal. Here are some benefits of installing metal roofing, from Interlock Industries in Calgary.

Durability

Metal roofing has a long lifespan than other roofing materials. The material won’t wear down for decades, and in some cases can last up to fifty years or more. It’s a smoother material, and won’t absorb water and is resistant to rot, moss or algae, pest, and insects. It’s made to withstand the test of time in all climates, especially an unpredictable Canadian one. Safe to say, you won’t have to worry about your metal roofing for as long as you own the house. It’s virtually maintenance-free.

Design

The metal roofing material is a great choice in its addition to the curb appeal of your home. This material comes in many different colors in styles, making it easy to match to your home’s exterior. Metal shingles are manufactured in different styles to create whatever home design you wish. It’s ultimately up to you, and metal roofing gives you the creative freedom you need.

Resistance

Metal roofing is fire and wind-resistant with their interlocking design. The panels are built in a way that will hold strong throughout the years. Your home will be protected from exterior fire sources, and hold stronger during interior fires. Not only that, but the material will hold strong and keep the cold air out during those windy days. These features will ensure your home is well-protected from whatever elements the weather might throw at it.

Energy efficient

Energy efficiency is a great feature of your roofing that should be considered. With metal roofing, its durability and strength will keep the outdoor weather outside. It can also help reflect UV rays and the heat of the sun during the summer, reducing cooling costs. This will help you save money on your energy bills, and keep the temperature well-regulated inside your home.

Metal Roofing in Calgary

Interlock Metal Roofing Systems have been installed across the continent in all climate zones. To constantly provide the highest levels of quality and service, they uphold stringent standards of excellence that adapt to the changing needs of customers and the environment. The strict implementation of product testing, thorough training, field supervision, and research & development allows them to ensure the integrity of their product and the satisfaction of their consumers.

Interested in Metal Roofing? Check out Interlock Industries today!

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RenovationFind Certified is a symbol of integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, maintenance.  It increases consumer confidence in your business, giving you an edge over your competition while validating you like the best.
More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest-growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, service, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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

Four home addition mistakes to avoid for a perfect renovation

Planning any renovation can be a challenge, but a new home addition is an especially big undertaking. Whether you are adding a new floor or a new room, there’s a lot to think about. Without proper planning, or just from the stress, certain mistakes can ruin a perfect reno!

Northern Craftsmen in Edmonton is a residential contractor specializing in full renovations, additions and custom builds. They share some home addition mistakes to avoid so that your renovation goes perfectly:

1. Underestimating the cost and budget

It’s likely that if you have an addition planned, you have a budget in mind as well. Even so, improper budgeting can still happen if you haven’t considered the whole project. A home addition budget should be broken down into three parts: the addition, the materials, and the hire. The cost of an addition will also vary depending on what you have planned. A new room, for example, will cost differently than planning to add a whole new floor. Material cost will also range in price, depending on what materials you use and how luxurious you want the renovation to be. Lastly, what sort of professional you hire and the extent of their team and services. Knowing exactly who you need to hire will let you make the right budget and the right renovation plans.

Also, you have to budget for the unexpected. No one likes to think about it, but surprises do happen. To avoid the possibility of going over budget or worse, not being able to complete the project, it’s important to have a contingency fund to cover any unexpected surprises along the way.

2. Doing a home renovation on your own

As tempting as it may be, home renovations are really not a DIY project to tackle alone. It may sound like an ideal idea to save expenses where you can, but extensions are major work. More than that, they will require multiple permits and inspections, which is something a professional general contractor will obtain for you. It’s work best left to the pros. Not only are you investing in the quality of work a professional will provide, but it’s also an investment for your home. When you hire a general contractor, they’ll bring all the skills, tools and right subcontractors for a safe job. For something as expensive as a home addition, you want to make sure it’s done right.

3. Not planning every detail of the renovation

Finally adding that necessary addition to your home is exciting, but don’t let your dreams clash with practical reality. If you decide to start your addition and improvise ideas and layouts as you go, it’ll invite disaster and not perfection in the end. It’s okay to change your mind throughout the process, but without a clear, well-laid plan your renovation will not run on schedule and will likely not stick to the budget either.

4. Forgetting to plan furniture into the design

It’s easy to get caught up in the construction part of additions and focus on the paints, windows, and doors. But, once your addition is complete, you’ll be adding furniture to the area. If you have a new bedroom, you’ll need space for a bed, a dresser and any other furniture. For a living room, do you want to hang pictures on the walls? If you forget to add furniture to your plans, you may find yourself without enough floor or wall space for everything. Be sure to add your furniture to those pre-construction design plans to avoid this. To help with the planning, take a look at these simple design tips for arranging furniture.

General Contractors in Edmonton

At Northern Craftsmen, they value high-quality work just as much as they value quality customer satisfaction. As a family-owned and operated business, they pride themselves in providing valuable and long-lasting results. Northern Craftsmen offer renovations, additions or custom builds that are each tailored to your needs and wants.

Ready to build? Contact Northern Craftsmen today to begin!

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RenovationFind Certified is a symbol of integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, maintenance.  It increases consumer confidence in your business, giving you an edge over your competition while validating you as the best.
More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, service, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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

Planning electrical outlets for a new home or renovation project

If you’re preparing to build a new home or renovate your current one, there’s a lot that needs planning. Often, though, the little details are overlooked or forgotten in all the major plans. In these cases, it’s properly planning where you want or need electrical outlets. Taking the time to plan this first will save you from electrical renovations down the road. Keep in mind, extension cords should only be short-term solutions for power in your home.

Pax Electrical Installation Ltd. in Edmonton is an electrical specialist. They share some tips when planning electrical outlets for your new home or renovation project:

Kitchens

If you have an island in your kitchen, you’ll likely be preparing food and using appliances that need power. Adding electrical outlets around your island will let you use these appliances without a problem. For the rest of the kitchen, take a look at its layout first and then decide from there. You don’t want outlets near any sinks, but you do need an even spread for other appliances. Also, don’t forget a few extra outlets on countertops to recharge any laptops or phones. You can also try these clever kitchen outlets for some out of the way yet accessible spots.

Living room

Electrical outlets in your living room will depend on what your layout plans are. If you want to wall-mount a TV, then install a wall outlet behind it to hide those cords. If you have coffee tables with table lights, in-floor plugs are a great way to avoid cables needing a wall outlet. Still, you will want wall outlets around the room, so install them evenly across the walls. If you shuffle your furniture arrangement, you want to have outlets still readily available.

Bathrooms

Take care with planning bathroom outlets, as you don’t want them near water. Still, you will want outlets for electric razors or hair dryers. Have electrical outlets placed on either side of your vanity, so that way, you won’t have cords going across the sink. For something a little more hidden, install outlets inside drawers instead. Don’t forget as well, that all bathroom outlets must be ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). These are the safest, and required by building code, in areas near water.

Bedrooms

The first thing to decide with bedroom outlets is where you plan to put your bed. Once you know that, place outlets on either side and more above the headboard if necessary. If you have a walk-in closet, don’t forget to add plenty of outlets there as well. Just like in a living room, don’t forget to add extra outlets along the walls too. That way, you can add additional lighting, set up a desk or place your vanity.

Garage

It is just as important to have the right electrical outlet set up in a garage, as with any room inside. Just be sure to keep your outlets away from any water heaters, but still, have an even spread. Place plenty of outlets along the walls, especially if you plan to add a workbench. Lower down outlets will also be necessary to charge any electric tools without needing to run long cords. If you’re running heavy equipment, you might need an electrical upgrade to supply enough power to your garage or workshop.

Electricians in Edmonton

Do you need electrical upgrades, renovations, maintenance or repairs? Whatever your electrical needs, Pax Electrical Installation Ltd. are the professionals to call. They pride themselves in their skill and quality of work when it comes to helping with any electrical project. They guarantee that the job is not only done right the first time but that your home is safe as well.

Call Pax Electrical Installation Ltd. today!

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RenovationFind Certified is a symbol of integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, maintenance.  It increases consumer confidence in your business, giving you an edge over your competition while validating you as the best.
More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, service, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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

The Benefits of Rubber Roofing

When installing new roofing, one of the first decisions that you’ll have to make is which material you use. With so many materials out there, how do you decide? One option that may fly under the radar is rubber roofing. It’s less common but has its benefits that will give you the quality roofing you seek from roofing companies in Edmonton. Here are some benefits of rubber roofing materials.

What is rubber roofing?

Rubber roofing materials are made of rubber or plastic polymers. They can be made from recycled materials, such as tires, making them eco-friendly. Using this material will allow you to reduce your environmental footprint, and at a cost that might surprise you. Rubber shingles are typically cheaper than asphalt or other types of shingles and yield similar results. It’s cost-effective and energy-efficient; why not go with the cheaper, environmentally friendly option?

Weatherproof

Rubber roofing is an incredibly durable option. It’s waterproof and weather-resistant, making it long-lasting. Based on the way that it’s built, it is less likely to produce cracks over time. There are no seams for the water to travel through. As well, using rubber roofing can benefit the interior of your home. It’s made to reflect off unwanted water and debris, but also can reflect heat away. This way, your home, as well as the material, won’t overheat during those warmer climates.

Installation

When it comes to the installation process of rubber roofing, it’s rather simple compared to other materials. Rubber is a lighter material than asphalt, so they are a lot easier to place. Some parts of the installation are similar, such as having to strip down the roof to its plywood base and cleaning away the dirt and debris accumulated from your previous roof. However, on some occasions, rubber roofing can be placed on top of the old roofing materials. It could add as a second layer of protection and would take less time and money to get the job done.

Roofers in Edmonton

Sargeant’s Roofing is synonymous with quality work, fair pricing, integrity, and happy customers! They focus on teaching first, selling second. The owners quote the roofs, are present for the installation of the roofs, and collect payment at the end – only once you are 100% satisfied. That way timely communication and consistent work product delivery are something they can promise every time!

Interested? Check out Sargeant’s Roofing today!

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RenovationFind Certified is a symbol of integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, maintenance.  It increases consumer confidence in your business, giving you an edge over your competition while validating you as the best.
More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, service, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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

Budget 2020: Chancellor Announces Affordable Homes Pledge, but Industry Experts Left Disappointed

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has delivered his first Budget and there is disappointment that, despite prominent campaigning from industry experts, there have been no tweaks to VAT to support the renovating of existing homes.

Prior to the Budget, house builders and industry leaders had called for VAT cuts on home repair and renovation, which the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) said would help to boost economic growth and reduce costs for those renovating a house

In data released earlier this week, the FMB revealed that 212 out of 357 small to medium-sized building companies supported VAT cuts.

Responding to the Budget, Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB said, “The Chancellor has missed an important opportunity to announce interventions that would support the sustainable, long-term recovery construction needs.”

“The autumn Budget must include measures to cut VAT on repair and renovation, and a National Retrofit Strategy to promote decarbonisation and create jobs and growth.” 

Hew Edgar, head of RICS UK Government Relations & City Strategy, added: “We’re disappointed the Chancellor didn’t support the property industry to retrofit thousands of buildings, turning them into places people would have loved to call home.”

Chancellor Makes Homebuilding Pledge

One of Mr Sunak’s standout announcements was to pledge an extra £9.5bn, totalling £12bn, for the Affordable Homes Program from 2021-22. This will be used to build 70,000 new homes in areas of need. Mr Sunak described it as the biggest cash injection in affordable housing in a decade.

The Budget also re-emphasised the government’s commitment to build at least one million new homes by the end of the Parliament, and an average of 300,000 homes a year by the mid-2020s.

“Today I can make good our promise to extend the Affordable Homes Programme with a new, multi-year settlement of £12bn,” the chancellor said.

The news was positively received by Tom Slingsby, chief executive of property developer Southern Grove. He said: “This cash boost for affordable homes will underpin building for many years to come and is a declaration of war on a housing crisis that isn’t going away.

“Only sufficient provision of affordable homes in the right areas can prevent the sort of social inconsistencies that appear when high property prices put key areas of UK cities off limits to younger workers and their families.”

Despite the investment, Berry reflected that a lack of additional support for small and medium-sized (SME) homebuilders could jeopardise this target.

“Master Builders are facing major barriers finding land, accessing finance and skilled workers – these will all need addressing if we are to build 300,000 homes a year,” said Berry.

Planning System Overhaul

The chancellor also promised to overhaul the planning system, with housing secretary Robert Jenrick expected to announce reforms on Thursday.

The proposed reforms will bring the planning system “into the 21st century”, according to Mr Sunak, which will be followed by a planning white paper later this year.

No Reference to Self Build

While the Conservative Party’s General Election manifesto directly referenced self build, promising to help first-time self builders access the Help to Buy scheme using 5% deposit mortgages, this pledge has yet to be fleshed out.

And today’s Budget leaves us with no extra information. While the initial reference to self build last December was considered significant for the sector, there is no elaboration of this pledge or how it will be rolled out.

However, Andrew Baddeley-Chappell, chief executive of the National Custom and Self Build Association (NaCSBA), says that while the Budget negates self builders, it is not all doom and gloom.

Baddeley-Chappell told Homebuilding & Renovating: “Overall it is always nice to hear your sector referenced, but no news does not mean bad news. There is nothing to complain about for us in this budget so it is a really a case of wait and see – with the promise of more to make it easier to build that we hope we will be a bigger part of.”

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

What Impact Could Coronavirus Have on UK Homebuilding?

The disruption caused by coronavirus is reportedly spreading into the construction industry, but self builders have been advised to carry on as normal.

The coronavirus disease COVID-19 has, at the time of writing, led to three deaths in the UK. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is today chairing an emergency Cobra meet to assess whether measures need to be implemented to delay its spread.

While the extent of the threat remains speculative, concerns have been raised about large groups of people in close proximity, and this may yet apply to construction teams working on developer sites.

“The potential impact on the construction industry is clear,” said Ian Atkindon, partner, and Michelle Essen, managing associate at law firm Womble Bond Dickinson. “There would be delays on site, there would be risks to a workforce that often finds itself working in close contact with each other and the questions are already being asked about who would bear the costs and risks of delay.”

Could Self Builders Be Affected?

There is potential for self build project timelines and costs to be affected if builders are not able to arrive on time, or unable to transport required materials. But Andy Stevens, builder and consultant with Eclipse Property Consultants, is optimistic that fears for the construction industry may be overblown.

Stevens told Homebuilding & Renovating: “Every builder that I know is just carrying on as normal. My advice to any self builder or renovator would be: carry on as normal. This shouldn’t stop anybody in the construction industry doing their job. 

“If anything, we’re in a better position because we’re outdoors, or areas with doors and windows open, so we have air flow. We’re handling blocks, timber, sand, plaster; we’re not handling stuff that someone may have sneezed on, or touched, so I think it’s one of the safer industries to work in.”

Coronavirus Impact on House Prices

While UK house prices neared in all-time high in February, mortgage lender Halifax has warned that the potential impact of coronavirus could spread to the property market later in the year.

Russell Galley, Halifax managing director, said: “The UK housing market has remained steady heading into early spring. The sustained level of buyer and seller activity is strong compared to recent years, with positive employment conditions and a competitive mortgage market continuing to support demand.

“But, looking ahead, there are a number of risks, including the potential impact of coronavirus, which continue to exert pressure on the economy and we wait to see how these will affect housing market sentiment later in the year.”

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

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