The Compare My Builder Blog
Expert advice, how-to guides, and tips to help you get the most from your home improvement projects.
7 Questions to Ask a Tradesperson Before You Hire Them
A few good questions before booking can save you from a delayed, overpriced, or poorly finished job. Here are 7 questions worth asking every time.
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When Is the Best Time of Year to Get a Boiler Serviced?
Late summer to early autumn is the best time to book a boiler service — before the seasonal rush. Here's why timing matters and what a service actually checks.
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Preparing Your Garden for Winter: Landscaping Jobs to Book Now
Late summer and early autumn is the best window to get garden and landscaping jobs booked before winter. Here are the jobs worth booking now and why timing matters.
Read moreHow Much Does a New Boiler Cost to Install? (2026 UK Guide)
A new boiler typically costs £1,500–£4,500 fully installed in the UK. Here's a full breakdown of costs by boiler type, what affects the price, and how to get an accurate quote.
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Bathroom Renovation Cost Guide: What to Budget For (2026)
A full bathroom renovation in the UK typically costs £4,000–£10,000. Here's a breakdown of what affects the price, how long it takes, and how to get an accurate quote.
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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Single-Storey Extension? (2026 Guide)
A single-storey extension in the UK typically costs £1,500–£2,500 per square metre. Here's a full breakdown of costs by size, what affects the price, and planning permission rules.
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Fencing Costs: Featheredge vs Panel vs Closeboard Compared (2026)
Garden fencing typically costs £30–£90 per linear metre installed. Here's a comparison of featheredge, panel, and closeboard fencing — costs, durability, and what to look for in a quote.
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Do I Need Planning Permission for a Loft Conversion? (2026 UK Guide)
Most loft conversions don't need planning permission but all require Building Regulations approval. Here's when you do need permission, and what to check before starting.
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Do I Need a Gas Safe Registered Engineer? What Homeowners Should Check
By law, anyone working on gas appliances in the UK must be Gas Safe registered. Here's how to check, why it matters, and red flags to watch for.
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Is a Skip Licence Required to Put a Skip on the Road? (2026 UK Guide)
Yes — if you want to place a skip on a public road or pavement, you need a skip permit from your council. Here's how to get one, what it costs, and the safety rules.
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Do I Need Building Regulations Approval for a Driveway? (2026 UK Guide)
Most driveways don't need planning permission — but drainage rules catch many homeowners out. Here's when you do need permission and what to check before starting.
Read moreHow to Compare Builder Quotes: What to Look For Beyond Price
The cheapest quote isn't always the best value. Here's what actually matters when comparing quotes — what's included, credentials, timeline, and payment structure.
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Tiler vs General Builder: Who Should You Hire for a Bathroom Retile?
For a straightforward bathroom retile, a specialist tiler is usually the better choice. Here's how to decide between a tiler and a general builder for your job.
Read moreFixed Price vs Custom Quote: Which Is Right for Your Job?
Fixed price or custom quote? Knowing which suits your job avoids both overpaying and unpleasant surprises. Here's how to choose the right pricing approach.
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How to Choose the Right Plumber for Your Home
From checking qualifications to comparing quotes — here's everything you need to know to hire a reliable plumber you can trust.
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