Work out your budget for your project
![New boiler installation cost](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/boiler-control-panel-300x221.jpg)
How much does a new boiler cost in 2025?
Our comprehensive guide outlines the average cost of a new boiler, running costs, and potential additional expenses to budget for.
![Painter and decorator prices guide](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Painting-Wall-scaled-300x200.jpg)
How much does painting and decorating cost in 2025?
There's nothing quite like a freshly decorated room - especially when you haven't had to spend days doing it yourself! Find out average painter and decorator prices and how to find the best in the business near you.
![](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/granite-worktop-300x221.jpg)
How much does a new kitchen cost?
The kitchen is the heart of the home. So, it's no surprise that a new kitchen is one of the most popular home improvement jobs. Here, we’ll break down the typical new kitchen cost to help you budget.
Advice for any project you're looking to do
![Do I need planning permission for a shed](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Feature-do-i-need-planning-permission-for-a-shed-300x200.jpg)
Do I need planning permission for a shed?
In recent years, planning permission rules have been updated to make it easier to carry out certain home improvements – and part of those changes affects garden buildings. In this guide, we look to answer the question: ‘Do I need planning permission for a shed?’.
![why is my ceramic disc tap leaking](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Featured-tap-problems-300x200.jpg)
Fixing common tap problems
Why is it when you have a tap problem it's always at the worst possible time? Let's take a look at the common tap problems and find out what is going wrong with your tap. You may be able to fix it yourself with this guide's help, or know when to call out a professional.
![unblocking an outside drain](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/unblocking-an-outside-drain-300x200.jpg)
What to do when your outside drain is blocked
If your outside drain is blocked, we'll take you through your options on how to clear it yourself, including tools and expert techniques.
Get ideas for your home from other homes in the UK
![Loft conversion ideas feature](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Teenage-bedroom-attic-1-300x221.jpg)
30 inspiring loft conversion ideas to maximise your attic space
We guide you through a gallery of stunning loft conversion ideas to inspire your home renovation and make better use of that wasted attic space.
![Driveway feature](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Latest-driveway-ideas-and-designs-300x200.jpg)
Driveway ideas for maximum kerb appeal
We outline a selection of inspiring front driveway ideas, the benefits of each, and the key considerations to make when planning this exciting home renovation project.
![Front porch ideas](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/front-porch-ideas-300x221.jpg)
Front porch ideas: making the perfect entrance
Front porches don’t only look great. They’re also a fantastic way to gain extra storage and increase your home’s energy efficiency! We’ve put together these inspiring front porch ideas to help you get the best out of your front porch design – whether you’re installing one from scratch or renovating.
Plan for your next home improvement project
![Planning a home extension with architect drawings](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/home-extension-plans-300x221.jpg)
A comprehensive guide to building an extension
Start planning and building an extension with confidence with our comprehensive planning guide.
![Plan your kitchen renovation project - Ultimate guide](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Feature-Kitchen-reno-alter-native-title-im-age-300x200.jpg)
Kitchen renovation planning guide: Everything you need to plan your kitchen renovation project with ease
![Chimney breast removal](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/chimney-breast-removal-300x154.jpg)
Your chimney breast removal project - all you need to know
Want to maximise your living space by removing an unused chimney breast? Here's everything you need to know before you approach your chimney breast removal project.
Step-by-steps for your next DIY project (good luck and be careful)
![A selection of extractor fans that could be installed through a wall](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Featured-extractor-fan-installation-cost-300x200.jpg)
How to install an extractor fan through a wall
Looking to install an extractor fan through a wall? Follow this expert guide to learn how to complete this job to a professional standard.
![Fixing squeaky floorboards on wooden floor](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Feature-How-to-fix-squeaky-floorboards-300x200.jpg)
How to fix squeaky floorboards
If you're sick of hearing your floor creak when you walk around your house, its time to learn how to fix squeaky floorboards. Save your ears, sanity and floors with our step-by-step guide.
![How to treat damp wall internally](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Feature-How-to-treat-damp-wall-internally-300x200.jpg)
How to treat damp walls internally
Ever wondered what causes damp walls? Learn the different sources as well as how to treat damp walls internally. With guidance, tips, prices and more.
![](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/fence-repair-570x380.jpg)
5 minute read
How much do fence panels cost?
If your fence has blown down in the strong winds, then here's how much it'll cost to replace your blown down fences.
Common issues we can solve
![my patio doors won't lock](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/upvc-door-lock-replacement-cost-300x221.jpeg)
Help! My patio door won't lock - what do I do?
It can be really frustrating if your patio door won't lock. But help is at hand with our troubleshooting guide which is packed with tips to help solve the issue.
![Electric shower not working](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Feature-electric-shower-not-working-300x200.jpg)
Why is my electric shower not working?
Having a lovely warm shower is one of life’s simple pleasures, but if your shower breaks it can put a real dampener on your day. In this guide, we answer the question: why is my electric shower not working?
![unblocking an outside drain](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/unblocking-an-outside-drain-300x200.jpg)
What to do when your outside drain is blocked
If your outside drain is blocked, we'll take you through your options on how to clear it yourself, including tools and expert techniques.
![](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/finding-business-suppliers-570x380.jpeg)
2 minute read
Hiring the right trade for the job
The majority of tradespeople are hard-working, reliable and will do a good job, but we’ve all heard of the cowboy horror stories. Let’s help you to avoid the bad eggs with this guide that looks at how to find a good tradesperson in your area.
![](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/SM-London-and-Tinas-Before-After-Bathroom-570x380.jpg)
Home transformations completed by Checkatrade members
Who doesn't love a home transformation? Check out some of these home renovations and get inspired for your next project!
Find and book your trade with us and we'll guarantee their work up to £1,000*.
![](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/lets-do-this-sticker.png)
![](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Checkatrade-team-570x380.jpg)
Meet the Checkatrade Editorial Team
See the experts behind the helpful content on home improvement and repairs; from qualified building estimators to our industry leading copywriters.
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News
Read the latest news from the home improvement industry and Checkatrade right here.