Even if you’re apprehensive about technology, you almost certainly often use it without even realising – such as scrolling through Instagram on your phone, asking Alexa a question or planning a route

A round-up of the latest self-build and home renovation news, products and events. By Jennifer Grimble and Joseph Mullane

NO-NONSENSE SOLUTIONS TO EVERYDAY HASSLES

One of the biggest, and costliest, jobs for renovators comes with updating an outmoded heating and plumbing system — surveyor Ian Rock’s guide explains all you need to know

Just 23 sleeps until the big day – make sure you’re not wasting cash in the run-up to Xmas. Financial strategist Laura Linden, of Feisty FD (feistyfd. com), shares some savvy reminders...

Switching supermarkets is a simple way to save money. Prices vary widely between retailers, especially on staples like bread, milk and fresh produce, so shifting this part of your weekly shop to disco