Latest news with #AlisonMacLean
Daily Record
10 hours ago
- Daily Record
Common holiday mistake could be 'open invite' to lose thousands
People are being warned to avoid doing this if they're leaving home for a while Brits are eagerly anticipating a sunny escape that's been on the cards for months as the summer holidays approach. But experts caution against one particular habit that could lead to a costly mistake. With many holidaymakers either jetting off overseas or opting for staycations, it's important to remember that summer is a prime season for burglars to strike. Thieves find this time of year ideal for targeting unoccupied homes or properties that have tempting opportunities like open or unlocked windows. House break-ins are averaging a loss of £3,896, and with 723 burglaries reported daily, internet searches for " home security tips" have spiked by 5,000% in recent weeks as people prepare for the height of the travel season. Property specialist Alison MacLean from St. Modwen Homes has offered valuable advice to help residents safeguard their property, including several affordable strategies to make a house seem occupied when you're away. Social media updates about trips can be an oversight many don't think twice about, reports the Mirror. Alison warned: "It might be tempting to share your travel plans or post beach snaps while you're away, but it's safer to wait until you're home. Public posts can alert thieves to an empty house – giving them information on exactly when to break in." Burglars look for clear indicators that a house is unoccupied, like a build-up of uncollected post or no sign that the lights have been switched on for some time. To create the illusion of someone being at home, get a trusted neighbour or relative to collect your letters and check in on the place. Consider investing in light timers that make it look like someone is at home for a few hours. It's not beneath criminals to use your own tools for break-ins. Store garden equipment and ladders under lock and key when they're not being used and install motion-activated lights near entryways as a preventive measure. Securing your outside area is crucial, but Alison points out that it's equally vital to ensure the inside of your home is safe, too. Make sure that all doors and windows are closed firmly and locked if possible, as these are "some of the most common entry points" for intruders. Enhancing security can also act as a deterrent to prospective robbers. Easy-to-spot surveillance cameras or alarm systems can sometimes be enough to make burglars think twice about the risk that comes with entering your property. Consider systems that send notifications directly to your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your property remotely. If budget is an issue, expert advice suggests realistic fake cameras can also discourage burglaries at a fraction of the cost of genuine systems. Alison stressed the importance of a few precautionary measures: "Taking a few simple steps to secure your home before you go away can save you a lot of stress (and potentially money) later on. Summer should be a time to enjoy yourself, not worry about what's happening back at home. A bit of forward planning now can make all the difference."
Daily Mirror
12 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
£3,800 warning issued over your holiday abroad this summer
Brits have been warned not to give an open invitation to criminals with the common holiday habit With the summer holidays fast approaching, Brits might be within touching distance of a sunny change of scenery that has been months in the planning. But experts have warned that there's one thing you should hold off doing that could otherwise end up costing you thousands. Whether you're heading abroad or staycationing in the UK, summer is unfortunately prime time for burglaries. The season offer plenty of tempting opportunities for cunning thieves to ransack your home - especially if they know it is going to be empty. Break-ins are costing households an average of £3,896 – with 723 burglaries happening every day. Google searches for 'home security tips' have surged 5,000% in the last month alone, ahead of the peak holiday travel season. To help homeowners stay one step ahead, property expert Alison MacLean at St. Modwen Homes has shared her top tips – including some simple and low-cost ways to make your home look lived-in while you're away. One common habit that most people cannot often help is posting about their holiday on social media whilst they are still away. Alison said: "It might be tempting to share your travel plans or post beach snaps while you're away, but it's safer to wait until you're home. Public posts can alert thieves to an empty house – giving them information on exactly when to break in." Thieves will look for key signs that nobody is at home, such as letters piling up or lights always being off. If you can, get a friend or family member to pop in and move the post from the doorstep, or invest in some timers to trigger lights going on and off at night. Criminals will have no shame in using your own tools and equipment to make breaking and entering easy for them. Always lock away garden tools and ladders securely when not in use. Consider putting some motion sensor lights around entry points for further deterrents. Beyond trying to trick burglars from the outside, it is also still very important to make sure everything is safe and secure on the inside of your home, too. For example, make sure that all doors and windows are securely shut and (if possible) locked, as, according to Alison, these are "some of the most common entry points" for burglars to use as they are often overlooked. Beefing up security may also be enough to put off any wannabe thieves. A visible camera or alarm system can be a strong deterrent as the house immediately becomes more of a risky target to break into. People might want to look for options that send alerts straight to their phone, so they can keep an eye on things wherever they are. If new security solutions aren't quite in the summer budget, realistic-looking false cameras have also been successful at detering burglaries, according to the expert, and they come at a substantially cheaper price point than the real deal. Alison added: 'Taking a few simple steps to secure your home before you go away can save you a lot of stress (and potentially money) later on. Summer should be a time to enjoy yourself, not worry about what's happening back at home. A bit of forward planning now can make all the difference.'
Scottish Sun
25-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
I'm a gardening expert, my £10 tricks will totally transform your garden with minimum effort but will have a high impact
GROW GIRL I'm a gardening expert, my £10 tricks will totally transform your garden with minimum effort but will have a high impact Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WITH summer right around the corner, Brits are itching to get back out into their gardens. But, a well-designed outdoor space isn't just for show – it could boost your home's value by a whopping 20% - a staggering £53,480 based on the average house price. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 A few budget adjustments can transform a garden Credit: Getty Alison MacLean, property expert at the award-winning national housebuilder, St. Modwen Homes, has revealed five budget-friendly garden upgrades that could add serious value to your outdoor space this summer… Maximise light and shade While simply owning a south facing garden is enough to boost your property's value - regardless of your outdoor orientation, finding a way to make the most of British summertime is key. Those with a north or east facing garden will find their outdoor spaces are naturally shadier. Prioritise lighter areas by adding seating or decking, and in the shadier areas, focus on brightening with shadow loving plants, painting fences in lighter colours, and adding reflective surfaces such as mirrors and water features. For west or south facing gardens, zoning can help to create shady retreats. Planting taller trees on the west side of your garden can provide cooling coverage from the afternoon heat, and installing small structures can help to create shaded areas to spend time throughout the day. If you have more money to invest, a pergola can be a great option, or a more budget-friendly parasol can be bought for as little as £10 to provide a similar effect. If you're lucky enough to have a newbuild home and a blank canvas to work from, track the sunlight before making any big decisions—understanding how it moves through your space will help you create a garden that's both practical and primed for the sunniest days. Put down some roots Although obvious, adding plants and flowers to your garden can be one of the most costs-effective, and transformative, ways to boost your curb appeal. Choose plants that will thrive in the space you have and that also meet your budget. Shoppers urged 'not to blink' and get their hands on Home Bargains garden essential that sold out fast last time and it makes your garden extra cute - TikTok homebargainsofficialuk Marigolds and pansies are both excellent choices for those who want to create instant bursts of colour without the wait – ideal for a brand-new garden. Raised wooden vegetable or herb gardens are an easy way to grow homegrown produce, and of course, earn garden bragging rights. They're equally functional as they are aesthetic, and cost on average around £200 to build. Create a sense of privacy Incorporating trees, hedges or climbing plants can be a perfect way to create visual barriers. If speed is a priority, bamboo is fast-growing option, and for those willing to play the long game, a clematis can also make for a beautiful privacy screen over time. Looking to add a structural element? Trellis is a fantastic choice and can cost just £15 - £20 per panel. Whether it's built alongside fences to support climbing plants or used to zone off standalone areas of the garden, it's a versatile upgrade that offers a huge amount of creativity in its use. Improve your lawn health A well-kept lawn requires some effort but makes an enormous difference to your outdoor space. With the British summertime as unpredictable as ever – as well as regular mowing, keep an eye on whether your lawn needs some extra hydration. For homeowners that have purchased a new build, don't just cross your fingers and hope for the best - freshly laid turf may need some extra love and care. Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants: 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden. Watering once a week or less if the weather is damp, with collected rainwater, can help your new garden to establish itself to remain green all year round. Adding mulch is also cost-effective way to improve your soil and grass health without breaking the bank and can cost as little as £110. Think of it as a superfood for your garden – but without the hefty price tag. Keep it secure A sure-fire way to boost your property's value is to improve your garden security. Ensuring you have robust fencing, strategically planted borders and gates with strong locks and bolts are all basic measures to undertake, but what other things can be done to deter unwanted intruders? Motion-activated lights are a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution, and are best placed near access points such as back doors or gates. Opting for gravel paths can also make it more challenging for an intruder to approach quietly at a budget-friendly cost of just £10-£30 per square meter.
The Sun
25-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
I'm a gardening expert, my £10 tricks will totally transform your garden with minimum effort but will have a high impact
WITH summer right around the corner, Brits are itching to get back out into their gardens. But, a well-designed outdoor space isn't just for show – it could boost your home's value by a whopping 20% - a staggering £53,480 based on the average house price. 1 Alison MacLean, property expert at the award-winning national housebuilder, St. Modwen Homes, has revealed five budget-friendly garden upgrades that could add serious value to your outdoor space this summer… Maximise light and shade While simply owning a south facing garden is enough to boost your property's value - regardless of your outdoor orientation, finding a way to make the most of British summertime is key. Those with a north or east facing garden will find their outdoor spaces are naturally shadier. Prioritise lighter areas by adding seating or decking, and in the shadier areas, focus on brightening with shadow loving plants, painting fences in lighter colours, and adding reflective surfaces such as mirrors and water features. For west or south facing gardens, zoning can help to create shady retreats. Planting taller trees on the west side of your garden can provide cooling coverage from the afternoon heat, and installing small structures can help to create shaded areas to spend time throughout the day. If you have more money to invest, a pergola can be a great option, or a more budget-friendly parasol can be bought for as little as £10 to provide a similar effect. If you're lucky enough to have a newbuild home and a blank canvas to work from, track the sunlight before making any big decisions—understanding how it moves through your space will help you create a garden that's both practical and primed for the sunniest days. Put down some roots Although obvious, adding plants and flowers to your garden can be one of the most costs-effective, and transformative, ways to boost your curb appeal. Choose plants that will thrive in the space you have and that also meet your budget. Shoppers urged 'not to blink' and get their hands on Home Bargains garden essential that sold out fast last time and it makes your garden extra cute - TikTok homebargainsofficialuk Marigolds and pansies are both excellent choices for those who want to create instant bursts of colour without the wait – ideal for a brand-new garden. Raised wooden vegetable or herb gardens are an easy way to grow homegrown produce, and of course, earn garden bragging rights. They're equally functional as they are aesthetic, and cost on average around £200 to build. Create a sense of privacy Incorporating trees, hedges or climbing plants can be a perfect way to create visual barriers. If speed is a priority, bamboo is fast-growing option, and for those willing to play the long game, a clematis can also make for a beautiful privacy screen over time. Looking to add a structural element? Trellis is a fantastic choice and can cost just £15 - £20 per panel. Whether it's built alongside fences to support climbing plants or used to zone off standalone areas of the garden, it's a versatile upgrade that offers a huge amount of creativity in its use. Improve your lawn health A well-kept lawn requires some effort but makes an enormous difference to your outdoor space. With the British summertime as unpredictable as ever – as well as regular mowing, keep an eye on whether your lawn needs some extra hydration. For homeowners that have purchased a new build, don't just cross your fingers and hope for the best - freshly laid turf may need some extra love and care. Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants: 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden. Watering once a week or less if the weather is damp, with collected rainwater, can help your new garden to establish itself to remain green all year round. Adding mulch is also cost-effective way to improve your soil and grass health without breaking the bank and can cost as little as £110. Think of it as a superfood for your garden – but without the hefty price tag. Keep it secure A sure-fire way to boost your property's value is to improve your garden security. Ensuring you have robust fencing, strategically planted borders and gates with strong locks and bolts are all basic measures to undertake, but what other things can be done to deter unwanted intruders? Motion-activated lights are a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution, and are best placed near access points such as back doors or gates. Opting for gravel paths can also make it more challenging for an intruder to approach quietly at a budget-friendly cost of just £10-£30 per square meter.
The Irish Sun
25-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
I'm a gardening expert, my £10 tricks will totally transform your garden with minimum effort but will have a high impact
WITH summer right around the corner, Brits are itching to get back out into their gardens. But, a well-designed outdoor space isn't just for show – it could boost your home's value by a whopping 20% - a staggering £53,480 based on the average house price. Advertisement 1 A few budget adjustments can transform a garden Credit: Getty Alison MacLean, property expert at the award-winning national housebuilder, Maximise light and shade While simply owning a south facing garden is enough to boost your property's value - regardless of your outdoor orientation, finding a way to make the most of British summertime is key. Those with a north or east facing garden will find their outdoor spaces are naturally shadier. Prioritise lighter areas by adding seating or decking, and in the shadier areas, focus on brightening with shadow loving plants, painting fences in lighter colours, and adding reflective surfaces such as mirrors and water features. Advertisement Read More on Gardening For west or south facing gardens, zoning can help to create shady retreats. Planting taller trees on the west side of your garden can provide cooling coverage from the afternoon heat, and installing small structures can help to create shaded areas to spend time throughout the day. If you have more money to invest, a pergola can be a great option, or a more budget-friendly parasol can be bought for as little as £10 to provide a similar effect. If you're lucky enough to have a newbuild home and a blank canvas to work from, track the sunlight before making any big decisions—understanding how it moves through your space will help you create a garden that's both practical and primed for the sunniest days. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous Put down some roots Although obvious, adding plants and flowers to your garden can be one of the most costs-effective, and transformative, ways to boost your curb appeal. Choose plants that will thrive in the space you have and that also meet your budget. Shoppers urged 'not to blink' and get their hands on Home Bargains garden essential that sold out fast last time and it makes your garden extra cute - TikTok homebargainsofficialuk Marigolds and pansies are both excellent choices for those who want to create instant bursts of colour without the wait – ideal for a brand-new garden. Raised wooden vegetable or herb gardens are an easy way to grow homegrown produce, and of course, earn garden bragging rights. Advertisement They're equally functional as they are aesthetic, and cost on average around £200 to build. Create a sense of privacy Incorporating trees, hedges or climbing plants can be a perfect way to create visual barriers. If speed is a priority, bamboo is fast-growing option, and for those willing to play the long game, a clematis can also make for a beautiful privacy screen over time. Looking to add a structural element? Trellis is a fantastic choice and can cost just £15 - £20 per panel. Advertisement Whether it's built alongside fences to support climbing plants or used to zone off standalone areas of the garden, it's a versatile upgrade that offers a huge amount of creativity in its use. Improve your lawn health A well-kept lawn requires some effort but makes an enormous difference to your outdoor space. With the British summertime as unpredictable as ever – as well as regular mowing, keep an eye on whether your lawn needs some extra hydration. For homeowners that have purchased a new build, don't just cross your fingers and hope for the best - freshly laid turf may need some extra love and care. Advertisement Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning : If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences : One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions : A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants : 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden. Watering once a week or less if the weather is damp, with collected rainwater, can help your new garden to establish itself to remain green all year round. Adding mulch is also cost-effective way to improve your soil and grass health without breaking the bank and can cost as little as £110. Think of it as a superfood for your garden – but without the hefty price tag. Keep it secure A sure-fire way to boost your property's value is to improve your garden security. Ensuring you have robust fencing, strategically planted borders and gates with strong locks and bolts are all basic measures to undertake, but what other things can be done to deter unwanted intruders? Advertisement Motion-activated lights are a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution, and are best placed near access points such as back doors or gates. Opting for gravel paths can also make it more challenging for an intruder to approach quietly at a budget-friendly cost of just £10-£30 per square meter.
