The Housing Market
Latest news on the housing market So we have a new Government in power. The cost of living is an issue few of us can ignore. Summer has been and gone, the weather is going bonkers, autumn is fast approaching and Christmas is on the horizon. When will there be good news?! Well, this is…
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How the property market is shaping up in 2024
The cost-of-living crisis, high energy bills and high interest rates seem to have most of the nation in an uncomfortable grip. There can be few who aren’t feeling the pinch and, naturally, this has an impact on the health of the property market. So, we’ve had the budget, we’re all waiting on a date to…
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What is a Schedule of Condition and why should you have one?
Recently we discussed the perils of conducting building works that might impact on a party wall shared by one or more neighbours and the importance of serving a party wall notice. As part of the process, and to protect the interests of both you and any affected neighbours, a Schedule of Condition is essential as…
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Party Wall Notice – what’s the point?
You’ve been neighbours for years, you’re on friendly terms and always chat over the fence. You mention you’re going ahead with that extension you’ve been planning, there might be a bit of noise – after all, your properties are adjoining – but it’ll all be over in a few weeks, there’s nothing to worry about….
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Level 2 and Level 3 Building Surveys: Understanding the Distinction
Whether you’re embarking on your first home purchase or navigating subsequent property investments, the decision to buy a home is a substantial financial commitment. It’s crucial to ensure that your choice is based on careful consideration rather than emotional attachment. Falling in love with a property’s location, room sizes, period features, or a dream garden…
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Freelance Building Surveyors Wanted!
At Home-Approved, we have been providing exceptional building surveying services to our valued residential clients in London and the Home Counties for over 11 years. If you are a RICS accredited professional with a passion for delivering high-quality work and want to collaborate with a reputable company, read on to discover why working as a…
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Dilapidation surveys – the best way for landlords to protect their property
Owning property is a financial asset and, if it’s leased out, a valuable source of income. Keeping that property maintained and in good condition is the obvious way of protecting your asset. However, if you have tenants in that property it adds a layer of complexity to maintenance and condition – especially when the tenancy…
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Fire Risk Assessments – essential for buildings with multiple occupants
The horrific fire at Grenfell Tower back in 2017 is hard to forget. The subsequent public inquiry has further kept the tragedy front of mind and raised many questions surrounding fire safety in buildings with multiple occupants. As a result of the inquiry, the vast majority of recommendations made were adopted into fire safety regulations…
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Fire doors in commercial and residential properties – do yours comply with regulations?
If you’re a building owner or manage a commercial or residential property with multiple occupants you will be well aware of the importance of fire doors as part of fire precaution measures. Fire prevention in buildings is heavily regulated. Failure to comply with regulations can lead to prosecution, heavy fines and, in some cases, a…
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Stamp duty – what the changes mean if you’re in the market to buy
As part of then Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng’s mini-budget back in September, a cut to stamp duty was announced. It’s about the only change that has stuck, following a rapid succession of u-turns, resignations and new appointments. Whilst the announcement of Rishi Sunak becoming Prime Minister was greeted positively by the City and immediately steadied the…
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