Ian Rock

When ceiling cracks appear in an old or original ceiling, is it serious or superficial? Chartered surveyor Ian Rock explains when to call in the experts

The building regulations can be more than a little confusing to navigate. Our simple, updated, guide for 2023 explains everything you need to know, including what recent changes could mean for you

Opening up a fireplace can often be a job undertaken on a DIY basis by renovators — and it is certainly one well worth doing. Our guide will take you through the process

Building an extension is a journey. Here's how to navigate your way through plans, costs, trades and more with our helpful beginner's guide

Knocking down internal walls will create a larger, light-filled space, but how easy is it? This guide has advice, tips and a practical how-to guide

Here's what not to do when renovating to make sure your project doesn't end up as a money pit

Get your Party Wall Agreement in place, and your project underway with our complete guide to everything you need to do

Bungalow loft conversions are a cost-effective way to add lots of extra space to single storey properties. Our guide explains how

Getting loft conversion stairs right can make or break your project. From getting the design right to ensuring it complies with regulations, here's what you need to know

Hip to gable loft conversions help properties with space-inhibiting hipped roofs add extra room for new loft accommodation. Here’s what you need to know.

A guide to converting a loft with a difficult roof construction. Includes advice on headroom, trussed rafters, telescopic joists, building regulations and more

Get to grips with the types of floor screed available, both old school and modern, to see which is right for your build project

If you find yourself asking if your loft is suitable for conversion then make sure you put your mind at rest and consider these key factors before calling in the builders

Converting your loft can often be incredibly cost-effective but there's lot to consider to do it well. Find out if your loft is the perfect place to add more space with our expert advice

Our quick guide to building regulations for extensions breaks down the key sections you need to know and how to navigate regulation documents in England, Wales and Scotland

Requiring a build over agreement may throw a spanner in the works of your extension project — but what exactly is one?

A building survey will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a new home. From the types available to costs and how to find a surveyor, find out more with this useful guide

Extending over a garage may not be as simple as it sounds, says chartered surveyor Ian Rock. The existing foundations and walls need careful consideration before work begins

While asbestos roof tiles are potentially dangerous, they may not pose an immediate threat. Find out how to correctly identify and safely dispose of them with this expert guide

The Party Wall Act is crucial if you’re planning work that will affect a shared wall between you and your neighbours. Here’s what you need to know

Render repair is one maintenance job that you really cannot skip if you want your house to be protected from the elements — damage should be put right as soon as it happens

If you are wondering what underpinning costs, we have the answers — plus a guide to all the possible causes of subsidence

Paying close attention to the structure, insulation and coverings of flat roof extensions is key to building a low-maintenance, leak-free and durable roof, says chartered surveyor Ian Rock

Not only can injected damp treatments be a waste of money, they can also do untold damage when applied to homes that don’t need them

Unstable ground? Clay soil? Trees? Sloping land? ‘Difficult’ sites can quickly become expensive to build on. Surveyor Ian Rock provides solutions for even the most problematic of plots