Category: Costs
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Why are water bills so high? Water companies and regulators respond
Are you wondering why your water bill has gone up or why it’s higher than your neighbour’s? You’re not alone. Water and sewerage charges are reviewed regularly, and in 2025, customers in England, Wales and Scotland are seeing further changes to their bills. Here’s what’s going on, what you can do to lower your bill…
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Couple faces unexpected £70,000 bill from council after building their extension
A couple from Godalming, Surrey, has been handed a staggering £70,000 community infrastructure levy (CIL) charge after they sought planning permission to demolish and replace an existing extension on their home. The hefty bill was issued by Waverley Borough Council, despite the extension initially being considered exempt from such fees. The couple, Steve and Caroline…
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Stamp duty changes push 1 in 4 homebuyers out of the market
For thousands of hopeful homebuyers across the UK, the dream of owning a home is slipping further out of reach. As stamp duty reforms loom, many are racing against time to complete their purchases before a sudden tax hike makes homeownership even more unaffordable. With new thresholds set to take effect on April 1, experts…
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Self-Build Zone reveals how to master cost control on your next self-build or renovation
Assembling a team of engineers, architects, and builders from the outset will help you scope out your build, establish a realistic budget, and determine the type of structure and materials best suited to your vision. These professionals will provide estimates based on a masterplan, but some suggested choices may stretch your budget. Review elements such…
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When should you turn off your heating this Spring to save money?
With spring on the horizon, many homeowners are wondering: when should you turn off your heating to save money? With energy price rises continuing, switching off at the right time can help cut costs without making your home uncomfortably cold. Experts say the key is not just the date but also how you turn off…
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Mortgage price war heats up as rates fall below 4%: homebuyers urged to act fast
A mortgage price war has erupted among major UK lenders, with Santander, Barclays, and Nationwide all launching deals below 4% for the first time since November. The rate cuts come as the Bank of England’s recent decision to lower the base rate to 4.5% fuels competition among lenders as more people look to secure cheaper…
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Martin Lewis predicts energy prices will rise by £100 in April
Money-saving expert Martin Lewis has warned that energy bills are set to rise again in April, with the energy price cap expected to increase by up to £100. As millions of households brace for higher costs, Lewis has criticised the current energy pricing system, calling it “broken” and urging the government to introduce a social…
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Are mortgage rates going down?
The Bank of England (BoE) has cut the base rate to 4.5%, marking its third reduction in six months. This comes as inflation cools but remains above target. For those wondering “Are mortgage rates going down?”, the answer is yes – but slowly. The average two-year fixed mortgage now sits at 5.89%, while a five-year…
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What is the cost of replacing kitchen worktops? Our expert explains
The longer you’ve had your current kitchen worktops in place, the greater the potential benefit of replacement. Heavily used and highly visible, these elements of your kitchen design become more worn over time – leaving you with a tired-looking kitchen. Replacing kitchen worktops, and potentially also unit doors, is a sure way to refresh the…