Home Improvement Guide
What Home Improvements Cost in 2026
One of the biggest challenges UK homeowners face is knowing whether a quote is fair. Prices vary considerably by region, trade, and project scope. Here's a realistic overview of what common jobs typically cost across the UK.
Boiler Replacement
A new combi boiler, supply and installation, typically costs between £1,800 and £3,500 depending on boiler brand, output size, and whether pipework needs rerouting. Boiler Plus legislation now requires certain controls (such as a programmer, room thermostat, and load or weather compensation) to be fitted at the same time on new installations.
Loft Conversion
A basic Velux loft conversion starts at around £15,000–£20,000. A dormer conversion, which adds usable headspace, typically runs £30,000–£50,000. A full mansard conversion in London can exceed £70,000. Always check whether permitted development rights apply or if planning permission is required.
Kitchen Fitting
A mid-range kitchen renovation — new units, worktops, and appliances — typically costs £8,000–£20,000 including fitting. High-spec bespoke kitchens can run to £50,000 or more. The fitting labour alone on a standard kitchen runs £1,500–£3,500 depending on complexity.
Rewiring
A full house rewire for a three-bedroom semi-detached costs roughly £3,500–£5,500. Larger detached properties can cost £6,000–£10,000. All electrical work must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations — use only a registered electrician for notifiable works.
Hiring Advice
How to Hire a Tradesperson Safely in the UK
Rogue traders cost UK homeowners hundreds of millions of pounds every year. Most problems are entirely avoidable if you follow the right steps before work begins.
Check Statutory Registrations First
For gas work, the law requires that all gas engineers working on gas fittings in the UK are on the Gas Safe Register — you can verify any engineer at gassaferegister.co.uk. For notifiable electrical work, use an NICEIC or NAPIT registered electrician. Failure to use a registered tradesperson can invalidate your home insurance and create issues when selling your property.
Get at Least Three Quotes
A single quote gives you no context. Three quotes reveal the market rate for your area and expose outliers — both suspiciously low (a warning sign for shortcuts or scams) and overpriced. Trader Quotes makes getting multiple quotes effortless with a single form.
Insist on a Written Contract
Any job over a few hundred pounds should have a written contract. It should include the full scope of works, a clear materials specification, start and finish dates, the total price and payment milestones, and what happens if additional works are required.
- Never pay more than a 25–30% deposit upfront
- Avoid tradespeople who insist on cash only
- Check reviews on multiple platforms — not just one
- Ask about relevant accreditations for your specific job
- Confirm if the work requires Building Regulations approval
- Check that public liability insurance is current and adequate