Kevin McCloud effect 'boosts self build'

One of the judges of the annual Homebuilding & Renovating awards has claimed that self build has improved beyond expectation.

On consideration of the homes that have been shortlisted for the awards, Angela Pertusini claims that self build has gone way beyond DIY enthusiasts and tree huggers looking to build a green home.

Writing for the Telegraph, she claims that the "overwhelming aura" of the properties that were shortlisted was one of luxury, which Ms Pertusini attributed in part to the Kevin McCloud effect.

The judge advises that anyone wanting to create a really special self build should introduce an element that makes it utterly suitable to the people who are to live there.

She claims that a bit of them should be built into the home but it must also represent value for money.

Julian Brooks, managing director of Green Moves UK, has claimed that eco self builders are more likely to adhere to the government's targets for zero carbon homes than large-scale developers, who are more motivated by money.