This article was published on Fri 03 May 2019. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

Want to improve rather than move?

Fri 03 May 2019

Here are some top tips on planning your home improvements.

If you are thinking about making improvements to your home, take a look at our tips to help you with the planning process:

Get it right first time

Only consider carrying out the work yourself if you are confident in your DIY skills. The cost of putting right any poor workmanship can be considerable and could even make your home less attractive to future buyers.

Get Permission

If you are planning alterations or building work remember to do your homework first. Check if planning permission or building regulations are required before you start the project. Both are legal requirements and if you don’t get them before you start work you could be made to take down any building works after they have been completed. You can find out more at the Planning Portal website.

Consider the neighbours

Home improvements can sometimes cause disruption to your neighbours, let them know before you start work and keep them updated on progress. If you share a party wall you can get advice at Gov.uk

Don’t forget insurance

Check with your home insurance provider to see if any of the improvements you are planning effect your policy. Consider if the home improvements undertaken will increase the value of your home. If so, refer to your insurer to make sure that you update your policy so that you are fully protected.

Think energy efficiency

Cutting down your home’s energy use could have an impact on your energy efficiency and help to reduce your fuel bills. Energy efficient improvements include fitting new double glazed windows and doors, upgrading your boiler and adding insulation. You can find out more on this topic by visiting the Energy Savings Trust website.

Work out a budget

Fully plan your improvements before you start, set a budget and stick to it! Don’t risk overstretching your finances by doing too much at once. Remember to set aside money for delays or unexpected overspend.

If you are looking for help to fund your home improvements, we’ve teamed up with Neyber, our trusted partner to offer loans to the Police family.

Representative example

You could borrow a loan amount of £9,000 with a monthly repayment of £222.07 over a term of 48 months at a 8.9% (fixed) rate of interest per annum. Administrative fees are £0. Total amount repayable is £10,659.56. This is equivalent to 8.9% APR Representative.

Important things you need to know

Police Mutual is acting as a credit broker. Neyber Limited is acting as lender for purposes of entering into a consumer credit agreement. Rates depend on loan amount, term and your individual circumstances and may differ from the Representative APR.

All loans are subject to status and acceptance by Neyber.

Please note, loans are not currently available for PSNI members and their families.

 

PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS. Neyber Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register number 718709. Registered address: 1st Floor, 3 Finsbury Avenue, London, EC2M 2AR. Company registered number: 08806631

Type of article: Articles
Category: Owning a house

Return to News and Blog