Month: June 2025

Refurbishing a property can be one of the smartest ways to unlock its full potential. Whether you’re a landlord aiming to increase rental yields, a developer hoping to boost resale value, or a homeowner wanting to modernise your space, investing in upgrades often brings long-term rewards. 

In recent years, refurbishment projects have been on the rise across London and the UK. A changing rental market, stricter energy efficiency standards, and shifting buyer expectations all play a part. For landlords, improving a property’s EPC rating isn’t just a legal obligation – it’s vital for attracting tenants and avoiding void periods. For sellers, a well-presented home is more likely to stand out in a competitive market. 

However, while the potential benefits are clear, many landlords and property owners find themselves caught off guard by the true cost of refurbishments – and the time it takes to complete them. It’s easy to underestimate both, especially when working with older properties or tackling upgrades in London’s unique housing stock. 

Breaking Down the Real Costs 

One of the most common mistakes property owners make is assuming a refurbishment budget will stretch further than it realistically can. Let’s look at the key areas where costs can build up.

1. Labour

Labour will often be the biggest single cost in any refurbishment project. Skilled tradespeople – including builders, electricians, plumbers, carpenters and decorators – charge a premium, particularly in London where demand is high. Even small jobs such as jet washing or flat pack assembly can add up when you factor in the number of trades required. And it’s worth noting that the cheapest quote isn’t always the best option; reliable, professional work can save money in the long run by avoiding costly re-dos.

2. Materials

From kitchen cabinets to flooring, bathroom suites to tiles, material choices play a major role in your final spend. Prices can vary hugely depending on the look you’re going for – and while off-the-shelf options might seem tempting, they aren’t always suitable for London’s older or irregularly shaped properties. In these cases, services like tiling can help ensure a quality finish. Add to this supply chain fluctuations, which can affect the price of timber, steel, and imported goods.

3. Contingency

No matter how carefully you plan, most projects encounter unexpected costs. Maybe that means discovering damp behind old plaster, needing to upgrade outdated wiring, or realising that more work is needed to meet fire safety standards. A sensible contingency allowance is at least 10-15% of your main budget, but some developers go higher, especially when working with period properties.

4. Location and property type

London refurbishments often come with added complexities. Tight access, parking restrictions, and working around neighbours in terraced or flat conversions can all slow work down and add cost. And if your property is listed or in a conservation area, you may face additional planning requirements and limitations. Handy Squad’s property maintenance teams can assist with ongoing care during and after these projects to help protect your investment. 

What landlords often underestimate 

For landlords in particular, the cost of meeting today’s rental standards can come as a shock. It’s not just about fresh paint or a new kitchen – it could mean upgrading insulation, installing fire doors, adding smoke and heat alarms, or improving soundproofing. And all of this takes time as well as money. 

Why Some Projects Need Finance 

Not every refurbishment can (or should) be funded purely from savings. In fact, there are many situations where finance helps make a project more viable or helps you achieve your wider goals. 

Converting to an HMO 

If you’re converting a property to a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), you’ll often need significant upgrades. These could include additional bathrooms, improved fire safety measures, and structural work to reconfigure the layout. The upfront cost can be considerable – but the long-term rental income is often worth the investment. 

Light refurb before refinance or sale 

Sometimes a relatively light refurb – such as updating the kitchen, modernising the bathroom, or refreshing flooring and decor – can make a property more appealing to buyers or boost its value for refinancing. Accessing short-term finance allows you to make these improvements without tying up all your available cash. 

Preserving liquidity while scaling your portfolio 

If you’re actively building a property portfolio, holding onto your capital can be vital for seizing new opportunities. Using finance to cover refurbishment costs lets you keep cash aside for deposits or other investments, helping you scale more quickly. 

Bridging Loans and Other Options 

One of the most common ways to fund a refurbishment is through a bridging loan. Put simply, a bridging loan is a short-term loan that helps cover costs until longer-term finance is in place. It’s typically secured against the property and is often used when speed is important – for example, buying at auction or funding urgent works. 

The benefit of bridging finance is flexibility. You can borrow against the current value of the property, complete the refurbishment, and then refinance onto a standard mortgage at the new, higher value. 

Other options include refurbishment loans, which are specifically designed for projects that enhance a property’s value, or in some cases, top-ups on an existing buy-to-let mortgage if the lender allows. The key is choosing the solution that aligns with your timeline and exit plan. 

Tips for Planning Your Refurbishment and Finance 

The best way to stay on budget – and avoid stress – is to plan thoroughly. Here’s what to consider: 

• Get accurate quotes. Don’t rely on ballpark figures. Ask for itemised quotes from trusted contractors so you can budget properly from the start. 

• Factor in all the timelines. If your project depends on a mortgage or refinance, build in time for valuations, legal work, and any lender checks. 

• Engage a broker early. A good broker can help you explore finance options, compare deals, and avoid costly delays when funding is needed. 

• Plan for the unexpected. Even with the best preparation, surprises can happen. A solid contingency budget is your safety net. 

Final Thoughts 

A property refurbishment is a fantastic opportunity to add value – but only if it’s approached with realistic budgeting and careful planning. Thinking through your costs, timelines and funding at the start puts you in a much stronger position to deliver a successful project. 

If you’re planning a renovation and want to keep your cash flow flexible, Avid Finance bridging loans could be worth exploring. They offer a range of solutions to help property owners fund refurbishments with confidence. 

The post The Real Cost of Property Refurbishment – and How to Finance It appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

When it comes to home improvements, it’s tempting to try tackling carpentry tasks yourself, especially with so many online DIY tutorials just a click away. But what seems like a quick weekend job often turns into a time-consuming and stressful project. That’s were hiring a professional carpenter really pays off. 

At Handy Squad, our skilled carpenters handle everything from building shelves to fitting doors and installing kitchen units, all with precision and professionalism. Here’s why choosing a qualified carpenter can save you time, stress, and even money in the long run. 

1. Get It Done Right First Time

DIY carpentry projects often take longer than expected, especially when things don’t go to plan. Measuring errors, tool limitations, and lack of experience can lead to frustration, or worse, a poorly finished job that needs redoing. 

Professional carpenters bring years of hands-on experience to each job. They know how to avoid common pitfalls, use the right tools, and complete projects efficiently. You won’t waste hours researching techniques or correcting mistakes, it gets done right the first time. 

2. Save Time on Every Step

From planning and measuring to sourcing materials and final installation, carpentry projects involve more than just hammer and nails. A professional carpenter takes care of the entire process, freeing up your time for other things. 

Whether it’s building custom shelving, boxing in pipes, or hanging doors, our team at Handy Squad arrives with the right tools, materials, and knowledge to get the job done quickly and to a high standard. No need for repeat trips to the DIY store or frustrating trial and error. 

3. Professional Finish and Long-Lasting Results

Even small carpentry jobs, like reattaching your cupboard door hinge or fitting your integrated dishwasher door. Cupboard doors become misaligned when hinges come loose, which we can help you with, to ensure that your cupboard doors not only fully open and close but also are neatly aligned cupboards, benefiting from a high-quality finish. Professionals know how to work with different materials, match styles, and leave a clean, polished result that blends in with the rest of your home. 

What’s more, properly installed carpentry features are built to last. Avoiding quick fixes and shortcuts now saves you from future repairs or replacements later. 

4. Stress-Free and Safe

Carpentry involves tools, materials, and sometimes structural work. If you’re not confident using power tools or handling large items, it can quickly become stressful and potentially unsafe. 

Hiring a professional carpenter ensures the work is carried out safely and in line with building standards. With Handy Squad, you also benefit from fully insured services and background-checked tradespeople, so you can relax knowing your home is in safe hands. 

Need a Carpenter in London? 

From small, odd jobs to major installations, our experienced carpenters can help with everything from shelving and partition walls to stair repairs and kitchen unit fitting. 

Book a professional carpenter with Handy Squad today and enjoy the benefits of expert workmanship, without the stress. 

The post Why Hiring a Professional Carpenter Saves Time and Stress appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Moving heavy furniture around your home or office may seem like a simple task, but without the right tools, technique, or manpower, it can quickly turn into a stressful, time-consuming and potentially dangerous job. That’s where Handy Squad’s Lift & Shift Furniture service comes in. 

Whether you’re rearranging rooms, setting up a new layout, or just need to shift bulky items temporarily for decorating or renovations, our team of trained professionals can help move furniture quickly, safely, and without damage. 

Avoid Injury and Strain 

One of the most common reasons to hire a professional lift-and-shift service is to prevent injury. Attempting to move sofas, wardrobes, beds, or other large items without proper lifting technique can easily lead to back strain, pulled muscles, or worse. 

Our team is trained in safe handling and lifting practices. We use the right equipment from lifting straps to furniture slides to ensure items are moved without putting your health at risk. 

Prevent Damage to Furniture and Property 

Dragging furniture across floors can cause scuffs, scratches, or even broken legs and joints. Navigating tight spaces, staircases, and doorways also increases the risk of banging walls or damaging items. 

Handy Squad professionals take great care when moving furniture. We assess the layout, protect floors and corners, and carefully dismantle or reposition items when needed. Whether it’s an antique sideboard or a modern modular sofa, your furniture is in safe hands. 

Ideal for Redesigns, Renovations, and Refreshes 

Planning to redecorate, change the flooring, or simply try a new furniture layout? Our Lift & Shift Furniture service is perfect for moving items out of the way and back again once the job’s done. 

We also assist with temporary moves, such as shifting items between rooms during home repairs or helping businesses reconfigure office space without disrupting the entire setup. 

Save Time and Stress 

Moving furniture on your own can be frustrating and tiring, especially if you don’t have help or the right tools. You may end up making multiple trips, damaging items, or spending far longer than expected on a task that should take minutes. 

By booking Handy Squad, you save valuable time and avoid the hassle. Our experienced team arrives with everything needed to complete the job efficiently and with minimal disruption to your day. 

Book Lift & Shift Services with Handy Squad 

No job is too big or too small. Whether you need a sofa moved to another room, a wardrobe shifted for a new carpet, or furniture relocated for a full renovation, Handy Squad can help. 

Book your Lift & Shift Furniture service today and let our team handle the heavy lifting safely, professionally, and without stress.

The post Why You Should Leave Heavy Lifting to the Pros appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

It’s easy to brush off small plumbing issues with a dripping tap, a slow-draining sink, or a toilet that occasionally runs. They may seem harmless at first, but over time, even the smallest plumbing problems can escalate into much bigger (and more expensive) repairs.  

1. Small Issues Often Lead to Bigger Problems

A leaky tap might waste only a few drops every minute, but over time that adds up to litres of wasted water and a higher utility bill. More seriously, that minor leak could be a sign of underlying wear in the pipework or seals. Ignoring it now may mean dealing with water damage later. 

Similarly, a slightly blocked faucet might not seem urgent, but if left untreated, it can lead to a full blockage, causing water to back up into your sink, bath, or toilet. What was once a quick fix could become a disruptive, messy repair. 

2. Water Damage Is Expensive

Unresolved plumbing issues can lead to water escaping into floors, walls, or cupboards. Even small leaks can cause long-term damage, leading to warped wood, damp patches, mould growth, and even structural problems. 

By taking care of issues early, you avoid the risk of hidden water damage which often goes unnoticed until it’s done real harm. A minor repair now could prevent hundreds or even thousands of pounds in restoration costs down the line. 

3. Plumbing Problems Rarely Fix Themselves

Some homeowners hope a running toilet or noisy pipe will just sort itself out. Unfortunately, plumbing problems almost always get worse over time, not better. Components wear out, seals crack, and pressure builds leading to more leaks, blockages, or broken parts. 

Calling a professional plumber when you first notice something wrong helps keep repair work simple, affordable, and quick. 

4. Efficiency and Peace of Mind

Leaking taps and slow drains are more than just annoying they affect how smoothly your home runs. Fixing them improves efficiency and peace of mind. You’ll waste less water, reduce your bills, and avoid the stress of sudden breakdowns. 

At Handy Squad, our qualified plumbers can diagnose and repair issues on the spot. We handle everything from dripping taps and loose fittings to faulty flushes and noisy pipework all with minimum disruption to your day. 

Book Plumbing Repairs with Handy Squad 

If you’ve been putting off that minor plumbing issue, now’s the time to act. Our experienced, London-based plumbers are ready to help with fast, reliable, and affordable plumbing repairs. 

Book your plumbing repair with Handy Squad today — and stop small problems from becoming big headaches. 

The post Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Minor Plumbing Repairs appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

With warmer weather finally here, it’s the perfect time to inspect your outdoor living areas—especially your deck. Whether you use it for weekend grilling, relaxing in the sun, or hosting family gatherings, a well-maintained deck is essential to the comfort and safety of your home. At Handyman Connection, we’re proud to help homeowners protect their investment through professional deck repair, maintenance, and upgrades.

Use this guide to evaluate your deck’s condition and learn the warning signs that your structure might need repairs, restaining, or replacement. Our experts help you spot red flags and keep your outdoor space safe and beautiful.

How to Evaluate the Condition of Your Deck

Decks are constantly exposed to the elements; over time, even the most durable materials can show signs of wear. Here are a few critical areas to examine when assessing your deck:

1. Surface Boards

Look for cracked, splintering, or warped boards. Excessive wear and softness could indicate rot or moisture damage. If boards move when walked on or feel spongy, they may need to be replaced.

2. Railings and Handrails

Wobbly railings or loose posts are major safety concerns. Give all handrails and balusters a firm shake—if they move, call in a professional for reinforcement or replacement.

3. Stairs and Treads

Stair treads should be level and secure. Check for cracks, rot, or signs of insect damage, and ensure that railings are stable and up to code.

4. Support Posts and Joists

Look under your deck and examine the joists and support posts. Check for rot, rusted fasteners, or shifting footings. Structural problems below the surface often go unnoticed but can lead to serious issues over time.

5. Fasteners and Hardware

Nails, screws, and connectors should be tightly fastened and free from rust. If you see corroded hardware or nails that have popped up, your deck may no longer be structurally sound.

Deck Maintenance Checklist: Does Your Deck Need Repairs or Restaining?

Routine maintenance can dramatically extend the life of your deck and keep it looking great year after year. Here’s a simple checklist to help you determine whether your deck needs professional attention.

• Inspect for Rot: Use a screwdriver to gently probe posts, planks, and railings. If the wood feels soft or spongy, rot may be present.
• Look for Fading or Peeling Stain: UV rays break down wood finishes. If your stain is fading or peeling, it’s time for a restain or sealant refresh.
• Clean Built-Up Dirt or Mold: Slippery surfaces caused by mold or mildew should be cleaned and sealed to prevent further growth.
• Check for Water Pooling: Water stains or pooling areas may indicate drainage problems that can lead to wood deterioration.
• Test Structural Stability: Walk the entire deck and note any bounce, movement, or squeaking. These could signal loose boards or weakened framing.
• Assess Stairs and Railings: Confirm all steps are secure and railings don’t wobble under pressure.

Professional Help for Your Deck from Handyman Connection

If you’ve noticed any of these red flags, don’t wait. The expert craftsmen at Handyman Connection offer a full range of deck repair, maintenance, and installation services tailored to your home’s needs. From replacing damaged planks and stair treads to re-staining weathered boards and reinforcing handrails, we ensure your deck is safe, sturdy, and stunning for the season ahead.

We also build deck frames to code, offer joist reinforcement, and install both pressure-treated lumber and low-maintenance composite decking. No matter the project size, we bring professionalism, reliability, and high-quality craftsmanship to every job.

Schedule Your Deck Inspection with Handyman Connection Today

Don’t let deck damage go unnoticed this summer. Whether you need minor repairs or a full refresh, Handyman Connection is your trusted partner for deck services that last. We proudly serve homeowners with expert evaluations, honest recommendations, and dependable workmanship.

Ready to restore your deck or start something new?
Call us today or schedule your consultation online to see how Handyman Connection can help you get the most out of your outdoor living space.

The post Is Your Deck Summer-Ready? How to Evaluate and Maintain Your Outdoor Living Space appeared first on Handyman Connection.

When summer temperatures soar, keeping your home cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient becomes a top priority. Whether you’re trying to reduce your energy bill, improve indoor air quality, or simply escape the heat, making a few strategic upgrades can make a major difference. The good news? You don’t have to tackle it all yourself.

At Handyman Connection, our professional craftsmen are here to help homeowners beat the heat with reliable, cost-effective solutions. From insulation improvements to ceiling fan installations, our team has the experience to keep your home cooler and more energy-efficient all season long.

Upgrade Your Insulation for Lasting Comfort

One of the most effective ways to stay cool in summer—and warm in winter—is by improving your home’s insulation. Poor or outdated insulation allows hot air to seep into your home, causing your cooling system to work harder. Upgrading insulation in your attic, crawl space, or walls can significantly reduce energy consumption and improve indoor comfort.

Our team at Handyman Connection can evaluate your current insulation and recommend the best solution for your home. Whether you need blown-in insulation, batt installation, or air sealing around windows and doors, we’ve got you covered.

Add Shade with Custom Pergolas and Shade Structures

Beat the sun before it even reaches your home by investing in exterior shade structures. A well-designed pergola, shade sail, or covered patio can provide a cool, comfortable place to relax outside while also helping to shield windows and doors from direct sunlight—reducing indoor heat.

Handyman Connection can help design and build custom pergolas and install shade features that complement your home’s style. Not only do these additions improve your outdoor space, but they also contribute to your overall cooling strategy. Check our our Carpentry Services to learn more about how we can help.

Install Ceiling Fans for Efficient Airflow

Ceiling fans are an affordable and energy-efficient way to circulate air and make your home feel cooler. Installing fans in your living room, bedrooms, or covered patios can help reduce your reliance on air conditioning and create a more comfortable breeze indoors.

Whether you need new fans installed, old ones replaced, or want to add fan controls to your existing setup, Handyman Connection’s licensed handymen can handle the installation quickly and safely. Visit our Electrical Services to see how we can help you!

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

A smart or programmable thermostat is one of the simplest ways to boost your HVAC system’s efficiency. These devices allow you to adjust temperatures automatically based on your schedule, helping you avoid unnecessary energy use when you’re away or asleep.

Handyman Connection can install and set up smart thermostats that integrate with your HVAC system and home Wi-Fi. This gives you complete control over your cooling system from anywhere and ensures your home stays comfortable without wasting energy.

Install Blinds and Window Shades for Indoor Cooling

Windows let in natural light—but they also let in heat. Upgrading your window coverings can block out sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, keeping your home cooler and protecting furniture from UV damage.

From modern roller shades to traditional blinds or blackout curtains, Handyman Connection can install custom window treatments that suit your space. We’ll help you choose materials and styles that offer both visual appeal and thermal benefits.

Don’t Forget to Replace Your Air Filters

Clogged or dirty air filters restrict airflow, reduce your cooling system’s efficiency, and worsen indoor air quality. During the summer, filters should be checked and replaced monthly—especially if you have pets or allergies.

Our team can inspect and replace your home’s HVAC air filters as part of a routine maintenance visit, ensuring your cooling system runs smoothly and your indoor air stays clean and healthy.

Stay Cool with Help from Handyman Connection

This summer, take control of your comfort and energy costs with the help of Handyman Connection. Our experienced team provides professional handyman services tailored to your needs—from insulation upgrades to electrical installations and outdoor enhancements.

Whether you need to install a ceiling fan, build a pergola, replace air filters, or add blinds to sun-drenched windows, we’re here to help you beat the heat without breaking the bank.

Call or text your local Handyman Connection today by calling us or Requesting an Estimate Online to schedule your summer cooling upgrades. Let us help you create a cooler, more efficient, and more enjoyable home all season long.

The post Beat the Heat This Summer: Smart Upgrades to Keep Your Home Cool appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Summer is one of the best times of the year to tackle important home maintenance tasks and seasonal upgrades. With longer days and favorable weather, it’s the perfect opportunity to complete those projects you’ve been putting off all winter. Whether you’re preparing your outdoor spaces for entertaining, upgrading fixtures for energy efficiency, or ensuring the safety of your home, having a reliable handyman by your side can make all the difference.

At Handyman Connection, our professional craftsmen are here to help homeowners with all kinds of summer home repairs and improvements. Here’s a complete summer maintenance to-do list designed to keep your home safe, functional, and beautiful throughout the season.

1. Inspect Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Home safety should always be your top priority. Summer is the perfect time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices are crucial in alerting you to potential hazards and should be checked regularly. If your detectors are outdated, malfunctioning, or missing entirely, our home maintenance services team can assist with replacing or installing new detectors quickly and safely.

2. Power Wash and Repair Decks, Patios, and Porches

Outdoor areas like decks and patios are used most frequently in the summer, so now is the time to get them in top shape. Over time, dirt, grime, mildew, and weather-related damage can take a toll on your outdoor surfaces. Our craftsmen provide professional power washing, deck board replacements, re-staining, railing repairs, and more. We’ll help restore your favorite outdoor spaces so they’re ready for relaxing or entertaining guests.

3. Repair or Upgrade Outdoor Fixtures and Features

Has your fence seen better days? Is your gate sagging or difficult to close? Summer is the perfect season for minor carpentry repairs. Handyman Connection can repair or replace wooden fencing, gates, posts, and outdoor trim. We can also install or repair outdoor lighting to improve security and enhance your home’s curb appeal.

4. Reseal Windows and Doors for Energy Efficiency

Old caulking and worn weatherstripping around doors and windows can let cool air escape, making your HVAC system work overtime during the summer heat. Our handyman professionals can inspect, replace, and reseal any worn-out materials to improve your home’s energy efficiency and keep your utility bills in check.

5. Inspect Faucets, Pipes, and Outdoor Spigots for Leaks

Leaking outdoor faucets, dripping hose bibs, or under-sink pipes may seem minor, but they can lead to water damage and higher water bills over time. Let Handyman Connection handle your minor plumbing repairs. We’ll inspect key areas for hidden leaks, tighten connections, and even install new fixtures if needed.

6. Schedule Gutter Maintenance and Soffit Repairs

Your home’s gutters and soffits play an important role in diverting rainwater away from the structure. Clogged gutters or damaged soffit panels can lead to costly water damage and rot. Our team offers gutter cleaning, downspout repairs, and soffit or fascia maintenance to help you protect your home’s foundation and siding during summer storms.

7. Repair Screen Doors and Window Screens

Keep bugs outside where they belong by checking the condition of your window and door screens. Our experts can easily fix torn or sagging screens. Whether it’s a screen replacement or frame repair, we’ll make sure your screens are summer-ready.

8. Check and Update Interior Fixtures

Summer is also a great time to make minor upgrades inside your home. From installing new ceiling fans or light fixtures to replacing damaged drywall or outdated flooring, our team offers a wide range of interior handyman services to freshen up your space.

Let Handyman Connection Help With Your Summer Home Maintenance

Tackling your summer home maintenance checklist doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. With help from Handyman Connection, you can complete your seasonal projects with confidence. Our experienced craftsmen provide trusted handyman services across a wide range of trades, including carpentry, electrical, plumbing, painting, and more.

Whether you’re in need of exterior home repairs, small updates, or custom improvements, we’re here to help every step of the way. Get started on your projects this summer by either calling us or Requesting an Estimate Online to book our craftsmen for your property.

The post Get Your Home Summer-Ready: Maintenance Tips from the Experts at Handyman Connection appeared first on Handyman Connection.

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

Go Fencing was founded by Will Wiebe in Winnipeg in 2018 and uses premium fence products from Direct Fence Supply (DFS). Will worked with vinyl fencing before starting his company in Saskatoon, and he was intrigued by its ingenious design, durability, and aesthetics. Go Fencing uses tough collars on galvanized steel posts, finished with heavy-gauge vinyl and a unique rail tie system. These fences are built to last and are virtually maintenance-free.

Go Fencing aims to always provide quality, clean, and professional services. Their team is friendly, helpful, and passionate about their work. They’ll be there to answer your questions, make recommendations, and ensure a smooth installation process.

Whether you’re looking for a tall privacy fence, a classic white picket fence or need to fence in your acreage or paddocks, their products will complement your home and landscaping. Check out their website to learn more and contact them for a free consultation.

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