Stories from Site - Renovation Podcast

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Welcome to Stories from Site, the podcast for renovation enthusiasts. Each week we’ll be chatting with a different home renovator, to peek behind the curtains of those insta-worthy interiors to bring you the REAL processes they went through to make their dream homes a reality.  This podcast is sponsored by Plykea  Beautiful plywood doors and worktops for IKEA kitchens

  1. HOME TRUTHS: Before the first hammer: Preparing for site works

    5D AGO

    HOME TRUTHS: Before the first hammer: Preparing for site works

    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! Sponsored by Plykea; Web:  https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Try the HomeNotes App; Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

    35 min
  2. HOME TRUTHS: The boring bit that will save your renovation

    FEB 26

    HOME TRUTHS: The boring bit that will save your renovation

    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 Contracts Webinar with Renovation Plan Use '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.) Sponsored by Plykea; Web:  https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

    22 min
  3. HOME TRUTHS: How to decode Builders' quotes (and avoid budget blowouts)

    FEB 19

    HOME TRUTHS: How to decode Builders' quotes (and avoid budget blowouts)

    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!! Sponsored by Plykea; Web:  https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Try the HomeNotes App; Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

    28 min
  4. HOME TRUTHS: How to find the right builder for you & your project

    FEB 12

    HOME TRUTHS: How to find the right builder for you & your project

    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! Sponsored by Plykea; Web:  https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Try the HomeNotes App; Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

    46 min
  5. Our takeaways: End of series 10 round up

    12/02/2025

    Our takeaways: End of series 10 round up

    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. Sponsored by Plykea; Web:  https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

    22 min
  6. From fixer-upper to family home with Renovate Like Kate

    11/25/2025

    From fixer-upper to family home with Renovate Like Kate

    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 @renovatelikekate Sponsored by Plykea; Web:  https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Try the HomeNotes App; Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

    27 min
  7. Matching budget with design: When one quote isn’t enough

    11/18/2025

    Matching budget with design: When one quote isn’t enough

    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: @proparchitects Sponsored by Plykea; Web:  https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Try the HomeNotes App; Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

    28 min
  8. DIY to Award-Winning: Transforming a London Flat

    11/11/2025

    DIY to Award-Winning: Transforming a London Flat

    This week, we talk with Natallia and Matt who share their remarkable ten-year DIY journey. Starting with a modest London flat, they built skills, overcame challenges, and created a home that won an award at this year’s Don’t Move, Improve awards.  It’s a story of persistence, creativity, and what’s possible when you take renovation into your own hands. You can find Natallia on instagram @natalliatanko and if you want to find out more about her Architecture practice, check out her website here. Sponsored by Plykea; Web:  https://www.plykea.com/ Insta: @plykeakitchens Brought to you by HomeNotes; Web: homenotes.co Insta: @wearehomenotes Try the HomeNotes App; Web: homenotes.coInsta: @wearehomenotes Check out our FREE webinars here >>

    32 min
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Welcome to Stories from Site, the podcast for renovation enthusiasts. Each week we’ll be chatting with a different home renovator, to peek behind the curtains of those insta-worthy interiors to bring you the REAL processes they went through to make their dream homes a reality.  This podcast is sponsored by Plykea  Beautiful plywood doors and worktops for IKEA kitchens

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