July 2009

Homeowners 'need expert help for major renovations'
Property owners should not underestimate the need for professional help when making major home improvements.

Energy efficiency 'has never been so important'
The UK's minister for energy and climate change has said that the issue of efficiency has "never been so important".

New kitchens 'appeal to homebuyers'
A new modern kitchen has been cited as one of the most attractive features of a property by potential homebuyers.

Caution needed when conducting DIY on older properties
People conducting DIY in older homes need to exercise extra caution as even small renovations can sometimes lead to larger problems, one expert has advised.

Extra money 'would go on home improvement'
New research found that Brits would spend extra money on home improvements if they could afford it.

Double glazing 'a key aspect of a home'
The replacement and installation of windows can be one of the most important changes made to a home, it has been claimed.

Energy efficiency 'key to carbon emission reductions'
New report released with the backing of former prime minister Tony Blair has claimed energy efficiency could play a major part in cutting carbon emissions.

Lancashire police spread home security message
Police in Lancashire are holding a series of roadshows in the region on the issue of home security.

Home improvement 'the most popular reason for equity release'
Those approaching or in retirement are most likely to use equity release to fund home improvement work, a study has suggested.

Leaflets lend hand to home security drive
A range of leaflets designed to look like an arm are being used to highlight the importance of home security across West Yorkshire.

Kitchen 'can be the main selling point of a home'
Renovating a kitchen could help a homeowner to sell their property, it has been claimed.

Climate change 'not just a global problem'
People should not just view climate change as a global issue and must take steps to improve the efficiency of their homes, an expert has claimed.

Renovation 'key to adding value'
Undertaking home improvement work could add value the price of a property, an expert has claimed.

Energy saving measures 'the most valuable home improvements'
New research has claimed that the most valuable home improvements are those related to saving energy.

'Style and size' the key conservatory issues
Selecting the style and size of a conservatory is one of the key parts of buying one, an expert has claimed.

Higher council tax for inefficient homes?
The UK Green Buildings Council has proposed a controversial new scheme which could see people paying more council tax if they do not make their home more energy efficient.

PCSOs deliver surprise home security verdicts
Residents in Hove have criticised the efforts of local police community support officers to raise awareness of home security.

Energy efficiency 'an important feature of a property'
A property expert has claimed that energy efficiency has become one of the most important issues considered by those looking to buy a house.

Government to announce efficiency plans
The government is preparing to launch new proposals to improve the energy efficiency of households across the UK.

Preston targeted in home security campaign
Households in Preston are being warned to be aware of home security issues through a new leaflet campaign.

Energy efficiency 'a priority to cut emissions and bills'
The UK should focus on energy efficiency as a key way to cut both carbon emissions and utility bills, it has been claimed.

Homeowners 'must plan ahead for conservatory'
Property owners need to think carefully about a range of issues when seeking conservatory quotes, it has been claimed.

Government selects eco-town sites
The government has announced its selection of the sites where new energy efficient eco-towns are to be built.

Holidaymakers targeted over home security
Police in West Mercia have collaborated with travel agents on a major campaign to raise awareness of home security.

Conservatories 'the easiest way to add space to property'
The installation of conservatory is the easiest way for homeowners to add space to their property, an expert has claimed.

Insurer urges homeowners to keep eye on security
Homeowners must not forget about the importance of security in the summer months, according to a leading insurance firm.

Conservatories 'could be affected by planning issues'
Homeowners should consider whether they need to apply for planning permission before having a conservatory added to their property, it has been claimed.

British Gas to rollout energy saving technology
A leading utilities provider is to rollout new technology to measure the energy efficiency of homes across the UK.

Heating 'a conservatory concern'
Those looking to have a conservatory installed should consider heating issues when selecting a design.

Security message spread in Chiltern
Property owners in Chiltern are the latest in the UK to be encouraged to pay attention to home security issues.

Windows and doors 'key to home security'
A police officer has suggested that windows and doors play a fundamental part in home security.

Burglary victim gets Safestyle windows
Safestyle UK has provided double glazing to a woman whose efforts to save for new windows were hit by burglars.

Homeowners happy with double glazing scheme
Property owners who have taken advantage of the government's Warm Front scheme to get insulation or double glazing are happy with the results, according to a report.

Binding target for efficiency proposed
European plans to introduce a binding target for energy efficiency could increase consumer interest in measures such as cheap double glazing.