Latest news with #Checkatrade


The Independent
17 hours ago
- Business
- The Independent
The cost of home renovations has become a lot cheaper
Analysis by the Checkatrade Home Improvement Index reveals that the typical costs for various home renovations have decreased in recent months. Significant price drops have been observed for bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom fittings, with average costs falling in the second quarter of this year. Other home improvement services, including painting and decorating, window and door fitting, and plastering, have also seen price reductions. Checkatrade attributes these falling prices primarily to a reduction in material costs, indicating a return to more typical market levels. Air conditioning prices have also recently fallen, with data suggesting that installing air conditioning could increase a property 's value.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Typical price of some popular home improvements ‘has reduced in recent months'
The typical cost of some popular home renovations has fallen in recent months, analysis of job inquiries indicates. The Checkatrade Home Improvement Index found that prices for bathroom fittings have dropped significantly, with the average cost at £5,525 in the second quarter of this year, down from £5,758 in the first quarter and £6,062 in the final quarter of 2024. In the second quarter of 2025, the average kitchen fitting job was £6,803, down from £7,337 in the fourth quarter of 2024. Typical bedroom fitting costs fell to £3,631 in the second quarter of this year, down from £4,016 in the first quarter. Average prices for painting and decorating, window and door fitting and plastering have also fallen during this year, the analysis indicates. Some price falls have also been seen for bigger-scale building jobs, from £15,358 on average in the third quarter of last year to £12,369 in the second quarter of this year. Checkatrade said typical costs for groundworks and for patios and driveways have also seen some reductions. The second quarter of the year is often a popular time for outdoor work to take place ahead of summer. The website, which has a job estimate calculator, said that, just as rising costs of materials led to price increases last year, some costs falling back are likely to be a key reason behind some declining prices for work. Checkatrade also said that, with the UK having already seen a hot summer, air conditioning prices have also recently been falling. Recent data from Zoopla, which has announced a strategic partnership with Checkatrade, indicated that, if sold in summer, air conditioning could potentially add £4,925 to a property's value typically. Jambu Palaniappan, CEO at Checkatrade, said: 'The latest figures are brilliant news for homeowners. Last year we saw rising costs in the industry, propelled by high material and labour costs. 'A reduction in material costs in particular now appears to be having an impact on reducing the wider cost of work and we are starting to see a return to more normal levels.'


The Independent
a day ago
- Business
- The Independent
Typical price of some popular home improvements ‘has reduced in recent months'
The typical cost of some popular home renovations has fallen in recent months, analysis of job inquiries indicates. The Checkatrade Home Improvement Index found that prices for bathroom fittings have dropped significantly, with the average cost at £5,525 in the second quarter of this year, down from £5,758 in the first quarter and £6,062 in the final quarter of 2024. In the second quarter of 2025, the average kitchen fitting job was £6,803, down from £7,337 in the fourth quarter of 2024. Typical bedroom fitting costs fell to £3,631 in the second quarter of this year, down from £4,016 in the first quarter. Average prices for painting and decorating, window and door fitting and plastering have also fallen during this year, the analysis indicates. Some price falls have also been seen for bigger-scale building jobs, from £15,358 on average in the third quarter of last year to £12,369 in the second quarter of this year. Checkatrade said typical costs for groundworks and for patios and driveways have also seen some reductions. The second quarter of the year is often a popular time for outdoor work to take place ahead of summer. The website, which has a job estimate calculator, said that, just as rising costs of materials led to price increases last year, some costs falling back are likely to be a key reason behind some declining prices for work. Checkatrade also said that, with the UK having already seen a hot summer, air conditioning prices have also recently been falling. Recent data from Zoopla, which has announced a strategic partnership with Checkatrade, indicated that, if sold in summer, air conditioning could potentially add £4,925 to a property's value typically. Jambu Palaniappan, CEO at Checkatrade, said: 'The latest figures are brilliant news for homeowners. Last year we saw rising costs in the industry, propelled by high material and labour costs. 'A reduction in material costs in particular now appears to be having an impact on reducing the wider cost of work and we are starting to see a return to more normal levels.'


Time Business News
7 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
How to Find the Best Local Movers in Ilford: A Complete Guide for Stress-Free Moves
Moving to a new home or office in Ilford can be an exciting chapter—but let's face it, the process can also be overwhelming. From packing to transportation, coordinating every step without professional help often leads to unnecessary stress. That's why choosing Local Movers Ilford is essential to make your relocation smooth and hassle-free. If you're searching for trusted, efficient, and budget-friendly moving services in Ilford, this complete guide will walk you through the entire process of finding the right movers, so you can enjoy a seamless transition without the usual moving-day chaos. Not all moving companies are created equal. The right Local Movers Ilford can save you time, protect your belongings, and reduce the mental load of relocating. Whether you're moving across town or just to another street, professional movers understand how to handle fragile items, navigate tight spaces, and load your possessions safely. Last-minute cancellations Damaged furniture or electronics Overpriced services without clear cost breakdowns Delayed schedules Lack of packing supplies or poor packing techniques Hiring reliable Local Movers Ilford eliminates these risks, ensuring your move is well-coordinated and efficient. Look for moving companies that have a solid track record in Ilford. An experienced team knows how to handle moves in busy areas, from Barking Road to Cranbrook. Check online reviews, ask friends, or search for testimonials from previous customers. Always choose Local Movers Ilford who are fully licensed and insured. This protects you from any liabilities if an accident occurs during your move. Don't hesitate to request proof of insurance before booking. Use platforms like Checkatrade or Trustpilot to confirm that the moving company operates legally and maintains high standards. One of the biggest complaints from customers is unexpected charges. Professional Local Movers Ilford should provide: Free, no-obligation quotes A detailed breakdown of costs Clear explanations of what is and isn't included This ensures you won't face any unpleasant surprises on moving day. Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Compare at least three estimates from various Local Movers Ilford. This helps you understand the average cost and identify companies offering the best value. A responsive team that answers your questions promptly is usually a sign of professional service. Test their communication from the first inquiry—are they polite, informative, and transparent? Do you offer packing and unpacking services? Are there any restrictions on items you won't move? How do you handle fragile or oversized items? When looking for dependable movers in Ilford, Move 4You Limited stands out. Known for their punctuality, customer satisfaction, and affordable packages, they have helped hundreds of Ilford residents with successful relocations. Local and long-distance moves Residential and commercial relocations Packing materials and services Furniture dismantling and reassembly Secure transportation With their trained staff and modern moving equipment, Move 4You Limited guarantees that your move will be stress-free and efficient. Begin packing at least two weeks before your move. Use quality boxes, bubble wrap, and labels to avoid confusion. Many Local Movers Ilford offer packing services as part of their package. If you're short on time, this is a great option to ensure your belongings are packed securely. A well-planned checklist can help you track all the tasks you need to complete before and after your move. Include things like: Notifying utilities Changing your address Packing essentials in a separate box On moving day, ensure you are available to answer questions and give directions. This helps Local Movers Ilford work more efficiently and prevents mistakes. Hiring a local moving company in Ilford provides several advantages: Knowledge of local traffic patterns Familiarity with building regulations and parking restrictions Faster response times in case of last-minute changes By choosing Local Movers Ilford, you benefit from their neighborhood expertise and community-driven service. Relocating doesn't have to be stressful. By hiring trusted Local Movers Ilford, you can ensure that your belongings are in safe hands, your time is respected, and your move is completed smoothly. If you're looking for a company with a proven track record, professional services, and a customer-first approach, Move 4You Limited is one of the best options available in Ilford today. From packing to transportation, their team is ready to assist you at every step, making your moving day easier than ever. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Skills shortage jeopardising pledge to build 1.5 million homes, report warns
A critical shortage of skilled workers is jeopardising the Government's pledge to build 1.5 million new homes by 2029, according to research. Skills development organisation City & Guilds surveyed employers, training providers and employees, finding 76% of construction firms are struggling to recruit the skilled people they need, with 84% agreeing the industry is suffering from critical skills shortages. The latest outlook from the Construction Industry Training Board suggests the industry needs to recruit 239,300 workers by 2029 to be able to meet the projected demand for the 1.5 million homes target. More than half (54%) of employers do not think the sector has the workforce it needs to meet this target, with the same percentage also putting into doubt the sector's ability to deliver net zero housing goals. Kirstie Donnelly, chief executive of City & Guilds, said: 'We can't build 1.5 million homes without the people to deliver it. We urgently need to reset how we attract, train, and upskill talent across the construction sector, with flexible routes, smarter investment, and collaboration between industry, education and Government. 'With the Government signalling a clear intention to reduce reliance on overseas workers, investing in and nurturing skills isn't optional – it's critical.' Jambu Palaniappan, chief executive at Checkatrade, said: 'The vision of modern, energy-efficient homes that are fit for 21st-century Britain will remain out of reach unless we tackle the critical trade skills gap head-on. 'Government is taking some important steps to address the problem and industry needs to play its part too. Checkatrade is piloting initiatives across the country, from boosting construction apprenticeships through to helping existing trades build new skills as more consumers look to make their homes greener and cheaper to run.'