Editorial policy
FixStepByStep is committed to publishing accurate, safe and genuinely useful DIY content. This page explains exactly how we research, write, review and update every guide, and how we handle corrections and reader feedback.
Sourcing & research
Every guide begins with primary research: hands-on experience from the editor writing it, manufacturer documentation for any tools or materials mentioned, and cross-referencing with EU safety standards (CE marking, EN norms, national building codes). We never copy or paraphrase competitor content.
Editorial expertise
Guides are written and reviewed by editors with practical DIY and trade experience, including former plumbers, electricians, painters and carpenters. For specialist topics (gas, structural, asbestos) we explicitly tell readers to hire a certified professional rather than attempting the work themselves.
Accuracy & fact-checking
Every published guide is fact-checked by a second editor before going live. We verify tool names, dimensions, material specifications, safety steps and any quoted standards. If we cite a regulation, it links to the source. If something is the editor's opinion (e.g. brand recommendations) we say so clearly.
Updates & freshness
We re-review every guide at least once a year, plus immediately after relevant regulation changes or major product launches. The 'last updated' date shown on each guide reflects the most recent substantive review, not just a typo fix.
Corrections policy
If we make a mistake, we fix it and, for material errors, add a visible correction note at the bottom of the guide explaining what changed and when. Readers can report errors via the contact form; we aim to respond within 48 hours and publish corrections within a week.
Funding & transparency
FixStepByStep is funded entirely by display advertising (Google AdSense) and, in future, carefully chosen affiliate partnerships. Advertising never influences which guides we write or how we write them. Sponsored content, when it exists, will always be clearly labelled as 'Sponsored'.