For effective home improvement, what you should consider is a specific programme of work for the next 12 to 24 months, with expenditure made gradually. In an ideal world, up to 2 or 3% of salary should be spent, just on maintenance.

If available funds are short, why not go to your local building society or bank? They will give you all the advice you need on how to use a loan to protect a valuable asset.

Choosing the right builder or contractor can be a problem, but not if you contact an organisation from those listed in these pages. Take a visit to "YOUR HOME" where you'll find all the ideas, suppliers and links to information that you need.

Once you have selected a builder/contractor, it is wise to use a simple building contract, so that both parties are clear as to what is agreed and expected. The Joint Contracts Tribunal Limited have drafted a contract specifically for that purpose and is available by mail order from RIBA Bookshops. Tel: 020 7 256 7222 Fax 020 7 374 8200 Email: sales@ribabooks.com

This site has been produced by the National Home Improvement Council which was formed in 1975 to bring together all those who recognise the existing housing stock as a true national asset. It has a wide membership and also has strong links with the public sector and Government.

Choose the improvements which you would like to see completed, and then contact the relevant organisation. Trade organisations included in this brochure can give you lists of their members, plus details of their warranty and guarantee schemes for your continuing peace of mind. All their members must operate to the highest codes of practice.

So, when it comes to home improvement, get in touch with an NHIC member to obtain all the help and advice that you need!

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