Practical advice

Macho DIYers take care

Sound advice from the Eyecare Trust for all would-be builders, decorators and plumbers about the dangers of 'doing it yourself'.

Which improvements add the most value?

Numerous makeover and housebuying TV shows have prompted a rash of DIY activity as homeowners dust off the toolbox. But, before you start knocking down walls you need to consider the real value that your work would add to your property.

How to pay for home improvements

It's high season for home improvements - but how are you going to pay? We weigh up all the options to help you stay in credit.

Top tips for householders dealing with workmen

Cowboy tradesmen are under fire again because of reality TV shows highlighting poor service and shoddy workmanship, according to a recent survey. Find out how to get what you pay for.

Britain wastes millions on home improvement

We spend four times as long planning a car purchase as a major home improvement project, such as a loft extension or a conservatory, according to independent research by the Federation of Master Builders.

Use your DIY skills to work in construction

In the UK alone, almost one in 20 people have turned their DIY skills into a career, reaping the financial rewards of turning a hobby into a job. Find out how you can get in on the act too!

Protect your garden

We're spending more money and time on our gardens than ever before. But are we covered when our gnomes go AWOL? Find out more about insurance and garden security with our handy checklist.

Your home is your castle

You don't want to come home to find your precious possessions taken, nor do you want to feel that a stranger has been in your home. We've got a checklist that will help you make your home more secure.

Flooding fears

Read on if you think your property is at risk of flooding and you want advice on how to protect it.

Does Grandma really know best?

We put a couple of age-old cleaning remedies to the test and give our top five.

Location, Location, Location

Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp have been out and about. They swiftly sized up our country and have come up with the best places to live... And the worst. Take a look at their Top 10.

Take DIY care

If you're planning some DIY don't end up a statistic. Every year there are around 70 deaths and 250,000 serious injuries related to DIY work. Find out how to protect yourself and your family.

Avoid the misery of frozen pipes

Before the start of winter, take a few steps to avoid suffering damage to your home from frozen pipes. You'll save yourself hours of hassle from insurance claims as well as the misery of mopping up!

What's on the horizon?

Get a sound understanding of the task you're going to take on by using one of our DIY calculators which will allow you to plan your budget sensibly.

Government red cards amateur electricians

New buildings regulations have come into force. Read our guide on how to stay on the right side of the law - and stay alive!

DIY spending spree

Brits are splashing out on giving their homes a facelift. The average homeowner intends to spend a record £1,501.85 improving their property this quarter. Find out what you're up against.

The home improvement divide

Consumers and estate agents are breeds apart in their views on the type of home improvements that will add value to a property.

DIY Dad

A recent survey revealed that 9 in 10 women are clueless when it comes to practical home emergencies - and their first port of call is dear old dad. Find out exactly why.