Stories from Site - Renovation Podcast

In this bonus episode of Home Truths, we bring together the most common questions homeowners have throughout a renovation - and put them directly to a builder.From finding the right builder and understanding quotes, to what really happens on site and why budgets change, this episode tackles the questions people often feel unsure asking.We explore what builders actually look for in a client, why prices can vary so widely, what slows projects down, and how to handle communication, variations and expectations once work begins.It’s an honest, practical conversation that bridges the gap between how homeowners experience a renovation - and how builders approach delivering one.Because the more both sides understand each other, the smoother the project becomes.A massive thank you to Juan Bonnin from Coastal Trades Collective for answering all our questions!You can follow Juan and his team on Instagram here >>Try the HomeNotes App;Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

The final stage of a renovation is often the most misunderstood.In this episode of Home Truths, we unpack what really happens at the end of a build - and why finishing a renovation almost always takes longer than expected.We explore why progress slows in the final weeks, from the coordination of multiple trades to the detail work required to bring everything together. The conversation covers snagging - what it is, when it should happen, and how to approach it without slipping into unrealistic expectations.We also explain the difference between practical completion and final completion, what the defects period is for, and how to tell the difference between a genuine defect and normal movement in a newly completed building.Finally, we discuss what comes next - from understanding your building systems to maintaining materials over time - and why the end of construction is really the beginning of living with and caring for your home.Because a renovation doesn’t end when the builder leaves - it evolves.Try the HomeNotes App;Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

Once the build starts, a renovation enters a completely different phase.In this episode of Home Truths, we talk about the realities of life on site - how communication, decision-making and money flow through a project once construction begins.We discuss how productive site meetings work, how the builder-client-designer relationship functions day to day, and why tensions sometimes arise during a build. The conversation also explores the financial side of construction: interim payments, variations, change control and why renovation budgets often evolve once hidden conditions are uncovered.Rather than trying to eliminate change entirely, the key is having clear processes that allow decisions, costs and expectations to be managed calmly and transparently.If you’re about to start a renovation - or already in the thick of one - this episode offers practical insight into how to keep a build running smoothly while protecting the relationships that make it possible.Try the HomeNotes App;Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

Preparing for build sounds straightforward - but it’s often where the biggest site problems begin.In this episode of Home Truths, we talk through what really needs to happen before that first hammer swings. From construction drawings and technical specifications to the many design decisions that quietly affect how a project gets built, we explain why preparation is one of the most important phases of any renovation.We also unpack the practical realities most homeowners don’t anticipate: access for materials, scaffolding and skips, parking restrictions, storage space, and basic site welfare. The conversation also covers neighbours and party wall considerations, and why communication early on can prevent unnecessary conflict once works begin.Finally, we explore the lead times that regularly derail projects; from windows and steel to kitchens and heat pumps, and why aligning procurement with your build programme is essential.The core truth? The smoother the preparation, the calmer the site.If you’re about to start building, this episode will help you avoid rushed decisions, costly delays and unnecessary stress!Try the HomeNotes App;Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

In this episode of Home Truths, Amy and Jane unpack the legal foundations every homeowner should have in place before work begins.We cover what actually needs to be in writing — from scope and programme to payment terms and change control — and why handshake agreements so often fall apart once time, money and stress enter the picture.You’ll also learn:The key insurance types every project should have (public liability, employers’ liability, contract works)Who is responsible for what — contractor vs homeownerWhy seeing certificates mattersHow subcontractor insurance gaps can create unexpected riskAnd how clear paperwork actually protects the working relationship, rather than undermining itIf you’re about to sign a contract — or wondering whether your project is properly protected — this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward safely.Because in renovation, what feels “boring” at the start is often what saves you later.Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, architectural, or professional advice. You should seek advice specific to your own project before making decisions.Resources we talk about in this episode:JCT home Owner ContractsWebinar with Renovation PlanUse 'HOMENOTES25' to get £25 off your insurance with Renovation Plan*(*We may earn a small commission from suppliers mentioned if you use our code or links.)Check out our FREE webinars here >>

In this episode of Home Truths, we unpack one of the most pivotal — and often confusing, stages of any renovation: receiving and reviewing quotes.We talk about why prices can differ dramatically, the difference between budgets, estimates and quotes, and why a single lump sum isn’t enough to make an informed decision. Jane explains how to properly review a tender, what a cost breakdown should include, and how to compare builders fairly, so you’re not caught out later.We also cover the hidden costs that frequently cause budgets to spiral, including provisional sums, client-supplied items, VAT, scaffolding, and permits, and share the one question every homeowner should ask: “What’s not included?”If you’re planning a renovation or about to receive quotes, this episode will help you approach the process with clarity and confidence - and avoid the costly misunderstandings that often begin with “I assumed that was included.If you're about to get quotes back from your builder - this one's for you!!Try the HomeNotes App;Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

We’re back with a new series of Home Truths — and we’re starting with one of the biggest decisions in any renovation: choosing the right builder.Before quotes, budgets or contracts, this choice can quietly make or break your project.In this episode, we talk about:where to actually find builders,how to vet them properly (without losing your mind),early red flags to watch out for,and the questions you should be asking before prices ever come back.If you’re renovating — or planning to — this one’s for you!Try the HomeNotes App;Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

In this bonus episode, Amy and Jane round up their key takeaways and top tips shared by the renovators in the tenth series of the Stories from Site podcast.They discuss the common themes that emerge across the series, including the different methods people have employed to keep costs down, as well as the advice that they're personally taking on board in their own renovations.Check out our FREE webinars here >>

This week we talked with Kate about renovating her Georgian farmhouse. Better known on Instagram as Renovate like Kate. She talks us through her hands-on approach to home renovation from her early projects in London to her family's big move to Leicestershire. Get yourselves ready for plenty of practical advice and insights into balancing renovation with family life.Find Kate's project on instagram @renovatelikekateTry the HomeNotes App;Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

 In this episode, we're joined by Vita who tells the story of finding the right house and working closely with the architects and builders to make her dream home. Vita shares how she balanced budgets and aesthetics, navigated tough decisions, and ultimately created a space that feels both intentional and inspiring.You can find Vita's project on instagram @belgravehome Project architects: @proparchitectsTry the HomeNotes App;Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>