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Latest
This week
11th October 2026 - 15th October 2026
Seriesthe big reno clinic
Is your attic costing you heat? Here’s how to insulate it properly
Shay Lally lays out the various costs involved in attic conversion and insulation, and why it’s important to do it properly.
Last week
4th October 2026 - 10th October 2026
the big reno clinic
How much contingency do you really need for a renovation?
Shay Lally outlines why it’s prudent to always make sure you have adequate contingency funds in your back pocket when starting a renovation.
Last month
September 2026
Seriesthe big reno clinic
My husband wants to DIY some of our renovation. Good idea?
Shay Lally helps a reader assess whether there are some parts of a renovation job that can be done by an enthusiastic but unskilled homeowner.
Seriesthe big reno clinic
How will we keep our A-rated house cool in coming summers?
Quantity surveyor Shay Lally from Houses to Restore answers the question that dogged many homeowners this year.
Seriesthe big reno clinic
Why am I getting tender quotes that are higher than I expected?
Quantity surveyor Shay Lally from Houses to Restore gives readers the heads-up to why their specific project might cost more – and why guidelines are just that.
August
August 2026
Seriesbig reno clinic
Planning an extension? Here’s what can send the cost soaring
Quantity surveyor Shay Lally from Houses to Restore explains why a small extension on a sloping site can quickly become an expensive build.
Seriesthe big reno clinic
Trying to improve your BER? Please, please, start with your attic
Quantity surveyor Shay Lally from Houses to Restore explains how to get the best value when trying to boost your BER.
Seriesthe big reno clinic
Planning to buy an old cottage? Here's what you're really signing up for
Quantity surveyor Shay Lally from Houses to Restore crunches the numbers on bringing a BER G cottage with no central heating up to scratch, and the grants available to do it.
Seriesthe big reno clinic
Rip the plaster off in one go: why renovating bit by bit could cost you double
Quantity surveyor Shay Lally from Houses to Restore answers your big (and small) questions.
This year
2026
Seriesthe big reno clinic
What does it cost to rewire a 1930s two-up, two-down?
Quantity surveyor Shay Lally on why a standalone rewire costs more than you’d think.
the big reno clinic
What would it cost to re-do an old, small, extension?
Quantity surveyor Shay Lally from Houses to Restore answers your big (and small) questions.
Seriesthe big reno clinic
What would it cost to convert my patio into an outdoor 'room'?
Quantity surveyor Shay Lally from Houses to Restore answers your big (and small) questions.
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