Susan Jefferson

Major alterations to a home generally need building consent but when it comes to renovating a period property the legalities can be more complicated. If a period property is in a conservation area, an area of outstanding natural beauty or is listed the restrictions about what can be done to renovate it are increased. Many alterations to more modern homes do require building regulations approval, but these can often be met by using a trader from the Competent Persons Register who can self-certify that major electrical work or window installations, for example, meet the criteria. It would only usually be in the event of making major alterations such as adding an extension where planning permission would be needed. When renovating a period property, however, the need to secure planning permission is applied much more widely as local authorities work to preserve the character of certain areas and buildings. Planning permission for period properties Your first responsibility in buyi...

Bi-folding doors have, without a shadow of a doubt, become extremely popular over the last few years and their popularity seems destined to grow even further. Bi-folds are a great option when there is a large aperture to fill as they can range in size from two doors with some manufacturers having a maximum size of eight doors. They are available in a number of configurations and many can have an access door included so the whole door does not need to be opened. Multi-point locking systems come as standard to ensure safety and security. Aluminium bi-folding doors are very contemporary in style and feature slim lines and lots of glass, meaning less of an interruption to the view outside. Available in over 150 different RAL colours and even dual colour it has never been so easy to find the right option. There are a range of handle options that can be matched to current decor and the option to have a weathered or non-weathered threshold. Aluminium is extremely low maintenance and, teamed ...