If you take a look around your home there’s a good chance you’ll find gadgets in almost every room of the house. From recreational gadgets such as televisions and games consoles to incredibly useful ones such as dehumidifiers and vacuum cleaners, our homes are immersed in technologies which enhance the space we live in.
The kitchen is certainly not a room to be scrimped on in gadget terms. Whilst you hopefully have the basics such as microwaves and toasters, there’s an infinite range of unusual, alternative and outrageously cool kitchen gadgets out there to be dabbled in. From the ingenious ones which solve common kitchen dilemmas, to the downright indulgent there’s a world of culinary mechanics to be explored! [click to continue…]
What is a Chartered Architect?
By law, all architects in the UK must be registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB). To become registered, architects must have completed a seven year training course in building design and have passed a professional practice exam. They can then join one of the following architect associations to become a Chartered Architect: [click to continue…]
This pest control post was answered by Brian Redpath, from B&D Pest Control Ltd in Romford
As well as becoming one of the most common household pests, bed bugs are also one of the most difficult to get rid of – so catch an infestation early by looking out for the most common bed bug symptoms.
Bed bug signs
One bed bug alone can produce as much as 300 eggs over a couple of months, meaning you have a full scale infestation on your hands before you know it. So, the sooner you detect a bed bug infestation, the easier it will be to get rid of – here are some of the most common bed bug symptoms:
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This tree surgery question was answered by Pip Forbes Adam, from Red Squirrel Tree Surgery in London
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) can be placed by Local Planning Authorities on any tree (or hedgerow, bush or shrub) they feel needs protecting for one of the following reasons:
- It contributes to the surrounding area’s beauty
- It forms an important habitat for wildlife
- It helps to hide an unattractive feature such as a building site
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- Pip Forbes-Adam – Red Squirrel Tree Surgery
This home protection and security question was answered by Tom Locks, Managing Director of Home Star Security in Crowborough, Tonbridge.
My best tip for protecting your home is to fit a good quality security system. If you don’t have one you’re leaving your property open to burglars – and once they’re in your home they’ll have free reign without anyone knowing. You may think that your neighbours will see or hear an intruder entering your property when you’re not around, but don’t rely on this. Double glazing blocks out a lot of noise and how often do people look out their window at their neighbour’s property at three in the morning? [click to continue…]
This reply was written by Brian Binfield – FCIOB Dip HI, Building Consultant at Regional Surveying Services Ltd in Kent

Q: After almost a year of searching, my partner and I have found a great property we want to buy in North London. It has all the space we need to start a family and has been recently redecorated – however, the original building is very old. The estate agent mentioned that we should commission a full building survey report, do we really need one? [click to continue…]
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- Brian Binfield – Regional Building Services Ltd
This asbestos surveyor question was answered by Ricky Wilson, Director of Wilsons Asbestos UK in Doncaster
Q: I’m thinking of converting the loft of a very old rental property and recently got some quotes. The conversion company told me I’d need to get an asbestos survey first though – how should I choose an asbestos surveyor and what kind of qualifications should they have? [click to continue…]
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- Welcome