UK Building Guides for 2026
Real 2026 UK building costs, planning permission rules, grant schemes and side-by-side comparisons. Every guide is written for UK homeowners — with real prices from vetted builders and up-to-date regulatory data.
Where to start
This library covers UK home improvement from both ends: what it costs and whether you are allowed to build it. If you are pricing a project, start with the cost guides. If you are wondering whether you need permission, start with the planning guides — most extensions, lofts and outbuildings fall under Permitted Development and need no application at all.
Every guide states its review date, uses ranges rather than single figures, and links to the quote form so you can confirm the number for your own property. We do not publish a price we cannot stand behind.
Browse by Category
Five guide categories covering every stage of a UK home improvement project — from the first planning question to the final build cost.
Cost Guides
Real UK prices from vetted builders — updated for 2026
Planning Permission
Permitted Development, planning rules and 2026 regulation updates
Comparisons
Side-by-side comparisons to help you pick the right option
How-To Guides
Step-by-step guides, grants, claims, and builder-vetting checklists
Industry Insights
2026 market data, pricing trends, and long-form analysis
All 2026 UK Building Guides
Get 3 free quotes →Our full library of UK building guides — cost breakdowns, planning rules, how-to walkthroughs and side-by-side comparisons. Newest first.
Is a Home Extension Cheaper Than Moving House in 2026?
In 2026, once you add up stamp duty, estate agent fees, legal costs and removals, moving to a bigger house often costs £30,000–£50,000+ before you gain a single extra room. A well-planned extension can deliver the same…
Read guide →Concrete Extension Cost 2026 UK: Price per m2 & Totals
A 2026 UK cost guide to concrete extensions: traditional brick-and-block vs ICF vs precast, cost per m2 (£1,800-£3,000), foundation and slab costs, totals for 15/25/40 m2 builds, plus planning, building regs and party…
Read guide →Is a Granny Annexe Cheaper to Build in Winter? 2026 UK
An honest, numbers-first look at whether building a granny annexe in winter genuinely saves money in 2026 — covering builder availability, frost and groundworks risks, typical £30,000–£100,000 costs, modular vs…
Read guide →EPDM Flat Roof Cost 2026: £80–£140 per m²
An EPDM rubber flat roof in 2026 costs £80–£140 per m² supplied and fitted — around £1,500–£2,800 for a garage, £2,500–£5,000 for an extension and £1,200–£2,200 for a dormer. EPDM lasts 25–50 years with a seam-free…
Read guide →Compare Extension Builders: Who to Trust 2026
How to compare extension builders and choose one you can trust in 2026: the accreditations that matter, reading quotes like-for-like, the red flags to walk away from, contracts and deposits, and the 10 questions to ask…
Read guide →Is a Steel-Frame Extension Cheaper in 2026?
For small extensions a steel frame is usually dearer than masonry, but on large open spans, glazing-heavy designs, difficult access or tight programmes it can come in level or cheaper overall. The honest 2026 cost…
Read guide →Rear Extension Cost UK 2026
Full 2026 UK rear extension cost guide. Average £45,000–£90,000, with per-m² prices from £1,800. Includes size breakdown, regional pricing, and 6 factors that change cost.
Read guide →Kitchen Extension Cost UK 2026
Full 2026 UK kitchen extension cost guide. £35,000–£75,000 typical — broken into extension shell (£1,800/m²) plus kitchen fit-out (£8k–£30k). Regional pricing + tips.
Read guide →Is a Home Extension Worth It? ROI 10–20% by Region
Is a UK home extension worth it in 2026? Real ROI 10-20% by region, when to go ahead vs pass, Part L 2026 impact and hidden costs that change the maths.
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for an Extension? UK 2026
2026 UK extension PD rules, scenarios, application process, fees £258-462. Single-storey rear 8m detached. Two-storey rear 3m. Conservation Article 4 + listed buildings. Refusal reasons + appeal route.
Read guide →Is a New Roof Worth It in 2026 UK? Repair vs Replace ROI
Is a new roof worth it in 2026 UK? Yes if the underlay has failed, 30%+ tiles are damaged, or you're planning solar. Cost £7,500–£18,000 — here's the honest repair-vs-replace decision tree.
Read guide →How Long Does a Roof Tile Last UK 2026? (By Type, Real Data)
How long do UK roof tiles last in 2026? Concrete 40–60 years, clay 60–100+ years, natural slate 80–150+ years. Pitch, exposure and underlay condition matter as much as the tile itself — here's the real-world data.
Read guide →Compare Roofing Quotes: What to Look For in 2026 (UK)
Compare roofing quotes by getting at least 3 like-for-like written quotes on the same spec, then checking scope, materials, scaffolding, guarantees and VAT line by line. Roofing prices vary 30–50% between firms for…
Read guide →Solar Roof Tiles vs BIPV: Best Value in 2026? (UK Compared)
Solar roof tiles and BIPV (building-integrated photovoltaics) both build solar generation into the roof itself rather than bolting panels on top. They look far better than standard panels and can double as the…
Read guide →Roof Quotes: Fixed Price vs Day Rate 2026 — Which Is Cheaper?
When you compare roof quotes in 2026 you will see two pricing models: a fixed price for the whole job, or a day rate per roofer (typically £200–£300 a day). Fixed price gives cost certainty and suits defined work like a…
Read guide →How Much Does a Roofing Repair Cost in 2026?
Roofing repair cost UK 2026 by repair type: slipped tiles, flashing, flat-roof patches, emergency call-outs and partial vs full re-roof, plus a worked example.
Read guide →Is a New Roof VAT-Free Under Warm Homes Plan?
Usually no — a standard full re-roof for repair or looks is normally standard-rated at 20% VAT in 2026. The 0% VAT relief applies to specific energy-saving materials (insulation, solar, heat pumps) not the roof covering…
Read guide →How to Plan a Roof Repair Step by Step 2026 (UK Guide)
Plan a roof repair in 8 steps: diagnose from inside, decide repair vs replace, check insurance, settle access, and compare 3 itemised NFRC quotes before committing.
Read guide →Does a New Roof Add Value to Your House UK? 2026
Rarely a premium — but it protects the value you already have. A new roof seldom adds more than 1–3% in the UK, because buyers expect a sound roof as standard. A failing roof, however, invites a 5–10% discount , a…
Read guide →Sagging Roof Repair Cost UK 2026: £1,500–£6,000 Fix Pricing
Fixing a sagging roof in 2026 usually costs £1,500–£6,000 for a structural timber repair, from £350 for a minor localised fix, and £9,000–£18,000+ if a full re-roof is needed. Cost depends on the cause — rafter spread…
Read guide →Compare Loft Conversion Types UK 2026: Which Is Best?
VELUX rooflight conversions £22k–£38k offer the lowest entry but smallest gain; dormer £35k–£60k is the UK's most popular sweet spot; hip-to-gable £45k–£75k transforms semi-detached lofts; mansard £55k–£95k delivers the…
Read guide →How Much Value Does a Loft Conversion Add? 20–25%
A 2026 UK loft conversion typically adds 20–25% to property value — £50,000–£120,000 in cash. See how the four conversion types compare, regional value uplift data, and the 6 decisions that change the uplift by £10,000+.
Read guide →Dormer Loft Conversion Cost UK 2026
Real UK dormer loft conversion cost in 2026: single dormer £30,000-£45,000, double dormer £45,000-£65,000, hip-to-gable plus dormer £50,000-£70,000. £1,500-£2,500/m² typical.
Read guide →Velux Loft Conversion Cost UK 2026 (Full Breakdown)
A Velux (rooflight-only) loft conversion in 2026 UK runs £22,000–£38,000 fully finished — the cheapest loft conversion type since there's no dormer or roof structure change. Cost ladder by floor area, staircase route…
Read guide →Extension vs Loft Conversion: Which Is Faster? (2026)
A 2026 side-by-side comparison of loft conversions and single-storey extensions: build timelines, design and planning lead time, cost per square metre, value added and disruption, plus which is faster and better for…
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for a Loft Conversion?
Most loft conversions in the UK fall under Permitted Development rights in 2026 and don't need planning permission. Full rules, exceptions, and when you do need planning.
Read guide →How Much Does a Loft Conversion Cost in 2026? UK
2026 UK loft conversion costs by type — Velux, dormer, hip-to-gable and mansard — with regional pricing, ROI data, and the full cost breakdown by element.
Read guide →Is a Loft Conversion Worth It in 2026? UK ROI Guide
A 2026 UK loft conversion typically costs £45,000-£85,000 and adds 20-25% to property value. See region-by-region ROI, when it's worth going ahead, and when to pass.
Read guide →Loft Room Planning Permission UK 2026: When You Need It
Most UK loft conversions can be built under Permitted Development without a full planning application — but four specific scenarios do require permission, and getting it wrong means a £30,000+ rebuild order. The 2026…
Read guide →Is a Loft Conversion Cheaper Than Moving House? UK 2026
In 2026 UK, a loft conversion typically costs £45,000–£75,000 against £35,000–£60,000 in moving costs (stamp duty, agent, legals, removals) for a like-for-like up-size. On homes priced £400k+ moving is rarely cheaper…
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for a Driveway? UK 2026
Most UK driveways in 2026 don't need planning — if the surface is permeable or drains to garden. Full 2008 SuDS rules, when planning IS needed, dropped kerb process and enforcement risk.
Read guide →New Driveway Cost UK 2026: Resin, Block, Tarmac & Gravel
UK 2026 new driveway cost guide: £45-£180/m² by surface. Gravel, tarmac, concrete, block paving, resin bound compared. Cost breakdown, size guide, hidden extras and 2026 budget tips.
Read guide →Tarmac Driveway Cost UK 2026: £45-75/m²
A typical 60 m² UK tarmac driveway costs £2,700–£5,400 supply & fit in 2026 — that's £45–£90/m² . The wide range is mostly down to sub-base condition (re-lay over existing tarmac is at the cheap end; full dig-out and…
Read guide →Is a Resin Driveway VAT-Free in 2026? UK Tax Guide
Short answer: no. A standalone 2026 UK resin driveway install attracts the standard 20% VAT rate. The "VAT-free" claim conflates three HMRC rules: 5% reduced VAT applies only when bundled into qualifying energy-saving…
Read guide →Is Block Paving Worth It in 2026? UK Cost & ROI Guide
A 50 m² block paving driveway costs £3,500–£6,500 fitted in 2026 UK — versus £2,200–£3,800 for tarmac and £4,200–£8,500 for resin-bound. Block paving genuinely earns its premium on three property profiles: detached…
Read guide →Tarmac vs Resin vs Block Driveways 2026: Costs & Lifespan
In 2026 UK, tarmac driveways cost £45–£80/m² with a 12–18-year lifespan, resin-bound £85–£140/m² with 18–25 years, and block paving £80–£170/m² with 25–40 years. Block paving wins on resale value; resin wins on…
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for a Patio? UK 2026
Most rear patios in 2026 UK don't need planning permission — they fall under Permitted Development if they're at ground level, behind the principal elevation, and not in a Conservation Area or AONB. Front gardens…
Read guide →Is a Resin Driveway Cheaper in Summer 2026? UK Guide
Short answer: no . Summer is peak demand for resin-bound driveways in 2026 UK, so prices are flat or 5–10% higher , not cheaper. The cheapest windows are late autumn (Oct–Nov) and early spring (Mar) , when contractors…
Read guide →How Long Does Composite Decking Last? UK 2026 Guide
In 2026 UK , capped composite decking from Trex, Millboard, TimberTech, Cladco and Composite Prime lasts 25–30 years. Uncapped budget composite averages 15–20 before fading and surface mould take hold. Softwood (treated…
Read guide →Is a New Driveway VAT-Free in 2026? (UK)
A new driveway for an existing home is standard-rated at 20% VAT in 2026 — it is not VAT-free. Zero-rating or a DIY Housebuilder reclaim only applies when the driveway is laid as part of building a brand-new dwelling…
Read guide →New Boiler Cost UK 2026: £1,800–£5,500
In 2026 UK , a like-for-like combi swap costs £1,800–£2,800 fitted ; a new combi with full pipework £2,400–£3,800 ; a system boiler + cylinder upgrade £3,800–£5,500 ; a premium Viessmann or Vaillant install…
Read guide →Is a Heat-Pump-Ready Home Cheaper to Insure? 2026 UK
A heat pump rarely changes your home insurance premium directly in 2026 - UK insurers price buildings cover on rebuild cost, construction type, flood and subsidence risk and claims history, not heating type. But you…
Read guide →Boiler Replacement Building Regs UK 2026: Rules + Certificate
Replacing a boiler in England and Wales is controlled work under the Building Regulations, so every installation must be notified and certified. This 2026 guide explains the two compliance routes, the Building…
Read guide →Does Air Conditioning Add Value to a House UK? 2026
Barely. In the UK, air conditioning typically adds 0–2% to a home's value — far less than the £1,800–£12,000 it costs to install. Its real return is comfort and saleability in top-floor flats and south-facing homes…
Read guide →Does a Heat Pump Add Value to Your House UK? 2026
Modestly — and indirectly. A heat pump typically adds 0–3% directly to a UK home's value, but the meaningful gains are the EPC band improvement , the removal of a future retrofit cost for your buyer, and access to green…
Read guide →Biomass Boiler Cost UK 2026: Prices, Grants & Options
A biomass boiler typically costs £10,000–£19,000 installed in 2026 for an automated wood pellet system, with log batch boilers a little cheaper. Here we break down prices by type and size, the cost of the fuel store and…
Read guide →Central Heating Power Flush 2026: Cost, Methods & Options
A power flush clears sludge and rust from radiators and pipework using a pumped machine, and typically costs £300–£600 in 2026 depending on the number of radiators. Here we compare a power flush against a cheaper…
Read guide →LPG Boiler Service UK 2026: Cost, What's Included & Options
An annual LPG boiler service typically costs £75–£140 in 2026 and keeps an off-grid boiler safe, efficient and warranty-valid. Here we explain what a service includes, compare service versus repair versus replacement…
Read guide →New Combi Boiler Deals UK 2026: Cost, Finance & Options
A new combi boiler supplied and fitted typically costs £1,800–£3,500 in 2026, and the best deal depends on getting the right size boiler at a fair fitted price rather than the lowest headline figure. Here we compare…
Read guide →Underfloor Heating Installation UK 2026: Cost & Options
Underfloor heating costs roughly £75–£200 per m2 installed in 2026, with electric mats cheapest to fit and wet systems cheapest to run. Here we compare wet versus electric and new-build versus retrofit, so you can…
Read guide →How to Plan a Solar Diverter for Hot Water (2026)
A 2026 UK guide to planning a solar PV diverter that sends surplus solar to your immersion heater for free hot water: how it works, leading devices, eligibility, a 6-step plan, realistic savings and SEG export-tariff…
Read guide →Solar Panels vs Heat Pump: Which Saves More? UK 2026
2026 comparison of solar panels and heat pumps for UK homes. Costs, grants, payback times and lifetime savings — plus the combined strategy for maximum bill reduction.
Read guide →How to Get a Free Solar Panel Grant in 2026 UK
2026 guide to UK solar panel grants including ECO4, Warm Homes Plan and HUG3. Who qualifies, how to apply, and how to avoid scams. Free eligibility check.
Read guide →How to Choose a Solar Battery UK 2026
UK 2026 guide to choosing a solar battery: 5 specs that matter, LFP vs NMC, household sizing table, side-by-side comparison of the 6 most-installed brands, and common mistakes to avoid.
Read guide →How to Compare Solar Panel Quotes UK 2026
In 2026 UK , identical-looking solar quotes can vary by £1,500–£2,500 on a 4kWp system because installers swap panel wattage (430W vs 480W), inverter brand (string vs micro), and warranty terms. A like-for-like…
Read guide →Solar Panel Grants UK 2026: ECO4, GBIS, SEG & 0% VAT
In 2026 UK, you can get a fully-funded solar PV install via ECO4 if you receive qualifying benefits and your home has an EPC rating of D, E, F or G. Without benefits, the GBIS scheme contributes ~£1,500, and 0% VAT…
Read guide →How to Get a Warm Homes Grant for Solar UK 2026
To get a Warm Homes Plan grant for solar in 2026 UK , your home must be EPC D–G, and you must either receive a qualifying income-related benefit or live in a Local Authority Flex (LA Flex) postcode. Apply via your local…
Read guide →How to Plan a Solar Diverter Installation 2026 (UK Guide)
A solar diverter (or immersion diverter) sends surplus solar PV electricity that would otherwise be exported to your hot-water immersion heater, turning free daytime sunshine into a tank of hot water. Fitted, most cost…
Read guide →Is a Solar Diverter Worth It in 2026? UK Cost & ROI
In 2026 UK , a solar diverter costs £300–£650 unit + £150–£250 install and typically saves £180–£320/yr on hot water — payback 3–6 years . Worth it if your SEG export tariff is below 12p/kWh and you use an immersion…
Read guide →Best Value Solar Panel Brands UK 2026
In 2026 UK , the best-value solar panels are JinkoSolar Tiger Neo (£0.32/W) and Longi Hi-MO 7 (£0.34/W) — both 22%+ efficient with 25-year warranties. REC Alpha Pure 2 and SunPower Maxeon 6 lead on premium efficiency…
Read guide →Is a Kitchen Renovation Worth It in 2026? UK ROI
A mid-tier (£18k–£35k) kitchen renovation returns 1.3–2x in resale uplift on UK homes priced £300k–£500k — the highest ROI of any single-room renovation. Premium tier (£35k+) only pays back on £1m+ homes. The single…
Read guide →New Kitchen Floor Cost UK 2026
LVT at £35–£65/m² fully fitted, engineered wood at £45–£90/m², porcelain tile at £60–£110/m² are the three 2026 UK kitchen-floor staples. A typical 20 m² UK kitchen lands at £700–£1,300 (LVT), £900–£1,800 (engineered…
Read guide →Warm Homes Grant for Kitchen Refurbishment UK 2026
Warm Homes won't fund a new kitchen — it covers energy-efficiency works only . But during a kitchen refurb you can claim toward insulation , a low-carbon heating upgrade (£7,500 BUS heat pump), MVHR and solar PV —…
Read guide →How Long Does a Fitted Kitchen Last? UK 2026 Guide
In 2026 UK , a typical fitted kitchen lasts 15–20 years at the mid-market tier (Howdens trade, Magnet, Wren). Budget B&Q and Wickes Lifestyle ranges average 8–12 years; premium hardwood by deVOL, Tom Howley or Mark…
Read guide →How to Choose a Kitchen Fitter in 2026 UK
Choosing a kitchen fitter in 2026 UK comes down to 10 things — trade-body membership (KBSA / NKBA), £2m+ public liability, written quotes itemising labour vs materials, lead times, payment schedule, snagging policy, and…
Read guide →Kitchen Worktop Cost UK 2026 (Laminate, Quartz, Granite & Solid Wood)
A new kitchen worktop typically costs £300–£3,500+ fitted in 2026, depending almost entirely on the material — budget laminate at the bottom, engineered quartz and granite in the middle, and premium solid surface or…
Read guide →New Kitchen Cost UK 2026: £8k–£75k
A UK new kitchen in 2026 costs £8,000–£18,000 budget, £18,000–£35,000 mid-range, and £35,000–£75,000+ premium — with units, worktops, appliances, and labour split fairly evenly. Here's the real cost ladder by spec tier…
Read guide →Average Kitchen Worktop Cost UK 2026: £300–£3,500 Fitted
Average UK kitchen worktop cost in 2026: £300–£3,500 fitted, or £1,200–£2,200 on a typical 6–7 metre kitchen. Per-material rates plus the templating and cut-out charges quotes leave out.
Read guide →Average Cost of a Kitchen Renovation Per m² 2026 (UK)
A kitchen renovation costs roughly £1,000–£1,500 per m² at budget spec, £1,500–£2,500 per m² mid-range and £2,500–£4,000 per m² at high end in 2026, before any structural work. So an average 12m² kitchen lands around…
Read guide →How to Plan a Kitchen Refit Budget (2026 UK Guide)
Planning a kitchen refit budget in 2026 means knowing where the money really goes: units, worktops, appliances, fitting and the trades behind the walls. A typical mid-range UK kitchen refit costs £10,000-£20,000, with…
Read guide →Bathroom Adaptation Grants UK 2026: DFG & How to Apply
In 2026 UK, the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) covers up to £30,000 (£36,000 in Wales) towards an accessible bathroom — walk-in showers, grab rails, level access. Means-tested for adults but not for children. Apply via…
Read guide →Bathroom Suite Cost UK 2026 (Cloakroom, 3-Piece, Premium & Fitted)
A new bathroom suite typically costs £150–£3,000+ supplied in 2026 depending on whether it is a basic cloakroom set, a standard 3-piece suite or a premium wall-hung range — and a full fitted bathroom lands at…
Read guide →Bathroom Fitter vs Builder 2026 UK: Who to Hire?
Hiring for a bathroom in 2026? Use a specialist bathroom fitter for a like-for-like refit — faster (1–2.5 weeks), often cheaper, one point of accountability. Use a general builder when the job is structural (moving the…
Read guide →How to Plan a Bathroom Wet Room: Step-by-Step 2026 UK
A wet room is a fully waterproofed, level-access bathroom with an open shower draining through the floor. The make-or-break stages are tanking (the waterproof membrane), the floor falls to the drain, and the right…
Read guide →Average Wet Room Cost UK 2026: £6,000–£12,000 Fitted
Average UK wet room cost in 2026: £6,000–£12,000 fitted. Line-by-line breakdown, why tanking is the one thing not to cut, and how VAT relief and DFG grants cut the bill.
Read guide →Does an En-Suite Add Value to a House UK? 2026
Yes, modestly. An en-suite typically adds 3–5% to a UK home's value for a £3,000–£8,000 spend — a solid ratio. The value is highest when it serves the principal bedroom in a home with three or more bedrooms and only one…
Read guide →How Much Does a New Bathroom Cost in 2026? (UK)
A new bathroom typically costs £3,000–£8,000 in 2026, with a small budget refit from around £3,000, a standard family bathroom £5,000–£8,000, and a large or high-end room £8,000–£15,000 or more. Labour is the biggest…
Read guide →Bathroom Fitting Cost UK 2026
Bathroom fitting in 2026 UK costs £4,000-£6,000 for a small refit, £6,000-£9,000 for a mid-range family bathroom and £9,000-£15,000+ for a large or premium suite. Labour only is £2,000-£4,500. See the cost by job type…
Read guide →Bathroom Extractor Fan Installation Cost 2026 UK
Bathroom extractor fan installation in 2026 UK costs £80-£250 supply and fit for a wall or window axial fan and £150-£350 for an inline loft-mounted fan. A like-for-like swap is £70-£150. Compare axial, inline and…
Read guide →How Much to Tile a Bathroom? UK 2026 Cost Guide
Tiling a bathroom in 2026 UK costs £30-£60 per m² for labour, roughly £400-£900 for a small bathroom and £1,000-£2,500 for a full floor-to-ceiling job. Tile materials add £20-£70+ per m². See the cost per m², what…
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garage? UK 2026
2026 UK garage planning rules: most builds are PD if under 4m height, single-storey, and not forward of the principal elevation. Listed buildings and Article 4 areas always need consent.
Read guide →How Much Does a Detached Garage Cost in 2026? (UK Prices)
A detached garage in the UK costs roughly £12,000–£22,000 for a single brick-built unit in 2026 and £22,000–£40,000 for a double. Concrete sectional garages start near £5,000. Size, material, the base and planning drive…
Read guide →Are Insulated Garage Doors Worth It? 2026 UK
An insulated garage door costs £300–£700 more than a single-skin equivalent. For an integral garage or a garage used as a room, the heat-loss and noise savings make it worth it; for a detached, unheated garage the case…
Read guide →How Much Value Does a Garage Conversion Add? UK 2026
Around 10% of property value — typically £15,000–£40,000 for an £8,000–£20,000 spend. That is the strongest cost-to-value ratio of any common UK home improvement. The one caveat: in areas where off-street parking is…
Read guide →Best Garage Conversion Specialists Near Me 2026 (UK Guide)
A garage conversion turns an unheated store into a habitable room, which means Building Regs, insulation, damp-proofing and often structural work at the old door opening. There is no national ranking near you. Check FMB…
Read guide →Garage to Bedroom Conversion: Cost & Rules 2026 UK
Converting a garage into a bedroom in 2026 UK typically costs £8,000-£30,000: a single garage is £8,000-£18,000, a double £15,000-£30,000. See the cost by size, the building regs and planning rules, insulation, heating…
Read guide →Garage Renovation: Options, Ideas & Costs 2026 (UK)
A garage renovation can mean a simple refurbish, a full conversion into a room, or a rebuild. Here is how the options compare on cost, disruption and value, and how to choose the right garage renovation for your home in…
Read guide →Convert Garage to Office: Options & Costs 2026 (UK)
A garage makes an ideal home office if it is properly insulated, heated and lit. Here is how a full garage conversion compares with a garden-office alternative on cost, planning and comfort, and how to choose the right…
Read guide →Garage Door Cost UK 2026: £800–£4,000 by Type
In 2026 UK , a fitted garage door costs £800–£1,800 up-and-over , £1,000–£2,200 sectional , £1,200–£2,500 insulated roller , and £1,800–£4,000 fully automated electric . Automation adds £600–£1,200. Full 2026 cost…
Read guide →Roller vs Sectional vs Up-and-Over Garage Doors 2026
Choosing between a roller , sectional and up-and-over garage door comes down to driveway space, insulation, security and budget. This 2026 comparison shows which type wins for each — with fitted costs.
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for a Sunroom? UK 2026
Most UK sunrooms under 30m² sit within Permitted Development — but conservation areas, Article 4 directions, the principal elevation rule and the 50% curtilage cap flip the answer. The complete 2026 decision tree with…
Read guide →Checkatrade vs MyBuilder vs Rated People 2026 (UK)
An objective 2026 comparison of Checkatrade, MyBuilder and Rated People: how each platform works, how trades are vetted, review systems, costs, pros and cons, best-for scenarios, and a 7-point checklist for vetting any…
Read guide →Best New-Build Builders Near Me 2026: How to Choose (UK)
Building a house is the biggest job a homeowner commissions, and the key protection is a recognised structural warranty, not a review score. There is no meaningful ranking near you. Check NHBC or LABC warranty…
Read guide →How to Read a Builder's Quote UK 2026
A UK builder's quote in 2026 is only as good as the spec it references. Compare on a like-for-like basis by checking 7 things : scope, PC sums, provisional sums, VAT treatment, payment terms, retention, and exclusions…
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for a Sun Room? UK 2026
In 2026 UK , most sun rooms are permitted development if they're single-storey, no more than 4m high (3m within 2m of a boundary), and don't exceed half the curtilage of the original house. Conservation areas, listed…
Read guide →How to Check a Builder Is Insured 2026 — The 5 Documents to Ask For
Before you let any builder on site in 2026, confirm they carry at least £2m public liability insurance, employer's liability if they have staff, and an insurance-backed workmanship warranty. Here are the five documents…
Read guide →Sun Room Cost UK 2026: £8,500–£32,000
In 2026 UK , a small uPVC sun room costs £8,500–£14,000 ; a medium aluminium build £15,000–£22,000 ; a large glass-roof or premium aluminium £22,000–£32,000 . Foundations, glazing spec and planning all move the price…
Read guide →Part E Sound Testing for Flat Conversions 2026 UK
If you're converting a house into flats or creating new dwellings, Building Regs Part E applies and you'll usually need pre-completion sound testing to prove the separating walls and floors hit the dB targets. This 2026…
Read guide →FENSA Check 2026: Verify an Installer in 2 Minutes
FENSA only covers replacement windows and doors in England and Wales. Before you hire, ask for the installer's FENSA number, verify it on the official register at fensa.org.uk, and ask to see a recent FENSA certificate…
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission? 2026 UK Guide
Many home improvements are permitted development and need no planning application — but rear/two-storey extensions beyond set limits, anything on a highway-facing elevation, flats, listed buildings and Article 4 areas…
Read guide →How Long Does House Wiring Last in the UK? 2026 EICR
In 2026 UK , modern PVC-insulated wiring lasts 25–40 years and modern RCD/RCBO consumer units 25–30 years. Pre-1970 rubber-sheathed and pre-1985 fuse-board installs are now well past safe service life and routinely fail…
Read guide →Driveway Grants UK 2026: EV Charging & SuDS Funding
In 2026 UK , the easiest driveway grants are the OZEV EV Chargepoint Grant (£350) , local council SuDS rebates (£200–£1,500) , and Disabled Facilities Grants up to £30,000 . There is no nationwide grant for a standard…
Read guide →EICR Certificate: What It Is, Who Needs It & Costs 2026
An EICR is a formal safety check of a property's fixed wiring. Here is what an EICR certificate covers, who legally needs one, how landlord and homeowner requirements differ, typical UK costs, and how to choose a…
Read guide →How to Plan a Driveway for an EV Charger 2026 (UK)
Planning a driveway around a home EV charger in 2026? Get the order right: confirm off-street parking, position the charger near your consumer unit, and duct the cable during groundworks before the surface goes down…
Read guide →Is a Driveway EV Charger Grant Available in 2026? UK
For a standard homeowner living in a house with a driveway, the dedicated EV chargepoint grant is no longer available in 2026 — it was withdrawn for owner-occupiers in April 2022. However, flat owners, people in rented…
Read guide →Is a Rewire Worth It in 2026 UK? When to Do It (Honest ROI)
A rewire is worth it in 2026 UK if you have rubber/cloth-insulated wiring, a pre-2008 fuse box, or no RCD protection — these are insurance and safety risks. Otherwise repair is usually better value.
Read guide →How Long Does a Rewire Take in 2026? (UK)
A full house rewire takes around 5–10 days for a typical 3-bed in 2026 UK, 3–5 days for a flat, and 2–3 weeks for larger homes. Here is the full timeline stage by stage, what makes it longer, and how to plan around the…
Read guide →How to Get an EV Charger Grant in 2026 (UK)
The EV chargepoint grant gives eligible UK renters, flat owners and landlords up to £350 off a home charger in 2026. Here is who qualifies, how much you can claim, and the step-by-step process to apply through an…
Read guide →How to Hire a Trusted Electrician for Rewiring 2026 (UK)
Hiring a trusted electrician for a rewire in 2026 means checking NICEIC or NAPIT registration, Part P competence, insurance and references before you compare quotes. Here is how to vet electricians and avoid the common…
Read guide →How Much Does an EV Charger Installation Cost in 2026? (UK)
A home EV charger typically costs £800–£1,500 fully installed in 2026, with a 7kW unit the most popular choice. Grants can reduce the cost for eligible flat owners and renters. Here is the full UK cost breakdown and…
Read guide →🪜 Scaffolding, Skips & Site Guides
Spray Foam Insulation Removal Cost 2026 (UK Prices)
What it costs to remove spray foam insulation from a UK loft in 2026, split by open-cell and closed-cell foam and by roof size, plus the roof repairs that typically surface once the foam is off and the paperwork lenders…
Read guide →Asbestos Removal Cost 2026 (UK Prices by Job Type)
2026 UK asbestos removal costs by job type, from cement garage roofs and Artex ceilings to licensed work on insulating board and lagging, plus survey and air-testing prices, disposal, and when managing asbestos in place…
Read guide →Gas Fire Removal UK 2026: Cost, Options & Safe Disconnection
Removing a gas fire safely means having the supply disconnected and capped by a Gas Safe registered engineer, which typically costs £80–£200 on its own, or more as part of a full fireplace removal. Here we compare…
Read guide →Moving House 2026: Removals, Clearance and End-of-Tenancy Cleaning
What to book and when for a 2026 UK house move: removals lead times, what a real removals quote includes, house clearance versus skip hire, and end-of-tenancy cleaning.
Read guide →How Long Can Scaffolding Stay Up on a Job? (2026 UK)
On private land there is no fixed legal limit on how long scaffolding can stay up, but your hire contract sets the included period, usually 6 to 8 weeks, after which you pay weekly. On a public highway a council licence…
Read guide →Load-Bearing Wall Removal Cost 2026 (UK Prices)
A 2026 UK guide to load-bearing wall removal costs: typically £1,500-£4,000+ once you add the structural engineer, steel beam, building control, labour and making good, versus £400-£900 for a non-structural stud wall…
Read guide →Do I Need a Licence for Scaffolding? UK 2026
You only need a scaffolding licence if the scaffold stands on a public footpath or road. Scaffold on your own drive or garden usually needs none. Full 2026 council licence rules, costs, lead times and penalties.
Read guide →Do I Need a Permit for a Skip? UK 2026
You only need a skip permit if the skip sits on a public road or verge. A skip on your own driveway needs none. Full 2026 council permit rules, costs, requirements, how to apply and penalties.
Read guide →Average Removal Costs for a 3-Bed House 2026 (UK Prices)
Average 2026 UK removal costs for a three-bedroom house, broken down by distance, packing level and the extras that catch people out, plus what a moving day actually looks like and six practical ways to cut the bill.
Read guide →Load-Bearing Wall Removal 2026: Options, Rules & Who to Hire (UK)
Removing a load-bearing wall needs a structural engineer, a specified beam and building regulations approval. This guide compares RSJ, goalpost, flitch and lintel options, sets out what the rules require, explains who…
Read guide →🔧 Plumbing Guides
How Long Do Copper Pipes Last in UK Homes? 2026
In UK homes , copper hot and cold mains pipework typically lasts 50–100 years ; copper central-heating circuits last 25–40 years before pinhole-leak risk rises. Soft-water areas (NW Scotland, Wales, SW England) last…
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for a Sun Pipe? (2026 UK)
For most homes the answer is no. Installing a sun pipe (sun tunnel / light tube) normally falls under permitted development, so no planning application is needed — provided it projects no more than 150mm above the roof…
Read guide →Is a Driveway Drainage Channel Required in 2026? UK Rules
Since 2008, a non-permeable driveway over 5m² draining to the public highway needs planning permission in the UK. To stay within permitted development you must manage runoff on-site — usually a drainage channel feeding…
Read guide →How to Plan Driveway Drainage in 2026 (UK Step-by-Step)
Plan driveway drainage by checking SuDS rules first: any new non-permeable driveway over 5 m² draining to the road needs drainage or planning permission. Choose permeable surfacing, channel drains or a soakaway sized to…
Read guide →Plumbing Job Cost UK 2026
A 2026 UK plumbing job costs £45-£95 per hour. Tap replacement £80-£160, leak repair £120-£280, radiator swap £140-£260, bathroom refit £1,800-£4,500. Emergency call-out adds 50-100%. Full 2026 ladder by job type.
Read guide →Compare Plumbers UK 2026: How to Choose the Right One
Choosing a UK plumber in 2026: insist on Gas Safe for any gas work, WaterSafe for mains, written fixed-price for defined jobs, hourly for diagnostic. Get 3 quotes via vetted platforms. Insurance £2m public liability…
Read guide →How to Hire a Trusted Plumber in 2026 (UK)
Plumbing problems are urgent, and urgency is exactly when people skip the checks and get burned. The 7-step vetting process BestBuilders uses to screen every plumber on our register — Gas Safe, WaterSafe, insurance…
Read guide →How Much Does It Cost to Re-Plumb a House in 2026? (UK)
A full re-plumb in 2026 UK costs £4,500–£9,500 for a 3-bed semi or £8,000–£18,000 for a 4–5 bed. Plastic push-fit (PEX) cuts labour 30% vs copper and is the 2026 default.
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for Plumbing Work? UK
Internal UK plumbing work doesn't need planning permission in 2026. Air-source heat pumps over the Class G envelope, external soil stacks in conservation areas, and large oil tanks may. Building Regs Parts G, H, J and L…
Read guide →How Much Do Plumbers Charge Per Hour? (2026 UK)
What plumbers charge per hour in the UK in 2026: typical hourly and day rates, callout and minimum charges, emergency and out-of-hours premiums, London versus regional variation, and what is normally excluded from the…
Read guide →📈 Adding Value & ROI Guides
Does an Extra Bedroom Add Value to a House UK? 2026
Yes — more reliably than almost anything else. An extra bedroom typically adds 10–20% to a UK home's value, with loft conversions at the top of that range and internal reconfiguration at the bottom. The catch: it only…
Read guide →What Adds the Most Value to a House in 2026? UK Ranked
Not all home improvements pay back. This 2026 UK ranking shows which projects add the most value to your house — from loft conversions and extensions to kitchens, driveways and kerb appeal — with realistic uplift…
Read guide →Cheap Ways to Add Value to Your Home (UK 2026)
You don't need an extension to add value. These 2026 UK budget improvements — most under £2,000 — remove buyer objections and lift your home's value and saleability, ranked by return per pound spent.
Read guide →How to Increase House Value Before Selling (UK 2026)
Selling soon? This 2026 UK plan shows exactly what to fix and what to skip to increase your house value before selling — focused on the low-risk improvements that recover their cost and speed up the sale.
Read guide →Is It Worth Renovating Before Selling in 2026? UK
Renovating before you sell can add value — or tie up cash you never recover. This 2026 UK insight weighs the maths honestly: which renovations pay back before a sale, which don't, and when selling as-is is the smarter…
Read guide →Home Improvements With the Best ROI in 2026 (UK)
Which home improvements actually return the most per pound in 2026? This UK ranking scores the top projects by ROI — factoring cost, value uplift and how reliably each recovers its spend — so you back the winners, not…
Read guide →Home Improvements That Devalue Your House (UK 2026)
Some improvements quietly cost you money. This 2026 UK guide names the home improvements that devalue your house — over-personalised decor, lost bedrooms, poor conversions and unsigned-off work — and how to avoid…
Read guide →Which Home Improvements Add Most Value by UK Region (2026)
The same loft conversion adds three times more value in London than in the North East. This 2026 comparison shows which home improvements add the most value in each UK region — so you back the right project for your…
Read guide →How to Improve Kerb Appeal to Add Value (UK 2026)
First impressions set the price. This 2026 UK guide shows how to improve kerb appeal to add value — the front door, driveway, planting, lighting and render fixes that make buyers offer more before they even step inside.
Read guide →How to Add Value to Your House in 2026 (UK Guide)
The complete 2026 UK plan for adding value to your house — from cheap presentation wins to space-adding projects like lofts and extensions. A clear step-by-step method to spend where it pays and skip what doesn't.
Read guide →🪟 Windows, Doors & Glazing Guides
Double Glazing Cost UK 2026: £450–£900 a Window
In 2026 UK , double glazing costs £450–£900 per window , £4,500–£8,500 for a whole-house uPVC job, and £8,000–£18,000 in aluminium or heritage timber . Price depends on frame material, window count, glass spec and…
Read guide →uPVC vs Aluminium vs Timber Windows 2026
Choosing a window frame in 2026 means weighing uPVC (cheapest, low-maintenance), aluminium (slim sightlines, modern, durable) and timber (heritage looks, repairable, premium). This comparison shows which wins on cost…
Read guide →Is Double Glazing Worth It? 2026 UK Payback
Double glazing is worth it when you're replacing single glazing or failed units — it cuts heat loss, kills draughts, reduces noise and adds resale appeal. Pure energy payback is long (often 10+ years), but comfort…
Read guide →Do I Need Permission to Replace Windows? 2026 UK
For most homes, replacing like-for-like windows is permitted development — no planning permission needed — but it must meet Building Regs , usually via a FENSA or CERTASS registered installer. Conservation areas and…
Read guide →Does Double Glazing Add Value to Your House UK? 2026
Yes, modestly — and defensively. Double glazing typically shifts value by 3–7% , but most of that is avoiding a discount rather than earning a premium. A still-single-glazed home is where the swing is biggest…
Read guide →Triple Glazing Cost UK 2026: Prices Per Window & House
A 2026 UK guide to triple glazing costs: prices per window by size and style, whole-house totals, the triple vs double glazing premium, U-values, frame materials, noise, condensation and whether it's worth it.
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for a Bay Window in 2026? (UK)
Most bay windows in 2026 fall under permitted development, but listed buildings, conservation areas and large new projections still need planning permission. Full UK guide to the rules.
Read guide →Double Glazing Near Me 2026: How to Choose a Window Installer
Replacement windows are notifiable work, so the installer must self-certify. Insist on FENSA or CERTASS registration and an insurance-backed guarantee, check the frame spec and energy rating, ignore 'sign tonight'…
Read guide →Best Double Glazing Companies UK: How to Compare (2026)
A 2026 UK guide to comparing double glazing companies properly: what FENSA and CERTASS registration actually certify, how to read U-values and WER ratings, frame material trade-offs, and how to protect your deposit.
Read guide →🎨 Painting & Decorating Guides
Best Painters & Decorators Near Me 2026: How to Choose (UK)
In decorating, a low quote is most tempting and most misleading, because most of a good finish is preparation you never see. There is no official ranking near you. Check PDA or Dulux Select membership, insurance, a…
Read guide →How Long Does Exterior Paint Last? UK 2026 Guide
In UK homes , exterior paint lifespan varies massively by substrate: standard masonry paint 8–15 years , silicone/breathable masonry 15–20 yrs , K Rend or pre-coloured silicone render 20–25 yrs , wood (windows, fascias…
Read guide →How Much to Plaster a 3-Bedroom House in 2026? (UK Costs)
Plastering a 3-bedroom house typically costs £4,000–£7,500 for a full skim in 2026, rising to £7,000–£13,000 where walls are hacked back, re-boarded and skimmed. A single room runs £350–£700 to skim or £700–£1,400 to…
Read guide →Exterior Painting & Decorating Cost UK 2026 (Full Breakdown)
Exterior painting and decorating in the UK in 2026 runs £2,800–£6,800 for a 3-bed semi fully prepped and 2-coated. The cost driver is prep, scaffolding and surface condition — not the paint. Full ladder, multipliers…
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission to Redecorate? UK 2026
Painting and decorating doesn't need planning permission for an ordinary UK house in 2026 — interior, exterior, woodwork all PD. Listed buildings need Listed Building Consent for any work affecting character…
Read guide →Painters & Decorators Near Me 2026: How to Choose (UK Guide)
Anyone can roll paint, so decorating quotes vary and a cheap price often hides skipped prep. What protects you is checking public liability insurance, PDA or Dulux Select membership and an itemised preparation spec…
Read guide →Painter and Decorator Day Rate 2026 (UK Prices)
UK painter and decorator day rates for 2026, with per-room and per-square-metre pricing, London versus regional variation, minimum charges, and what is normally excluded from a decorating quote.
Read guide →Best Painters and Decorators UK: How to Choose (2026)
A 2026 UK buyer's guide to choosing painters and decorators: which accreditations matter, how to judge preparation quality, what to expect on price, and how to compare quotes on a like-for-like basis.
Read guide →🪚 Carpentry & Joinery Guides
Best Carpenters & Joiners Near Me 2026: How to Choose (UK)
Carpentry ranges from hanging a door to a bespoke staircase, so the best carpenter is the one whose skills match your job. There is no national ranking near you. Check City & Guilds or NVQ qualifications, Guild of…
Read guide →How Long Does a Fitted Wardrobe Last? UK 2026 Guide
In UK homes , a fitted wardrobe typically lasts 15–40+ years depending on materials. Budget MDF/melamine carcass lasts 15–20 yrs; veneered MDF 20–30 yrs; solid hardwood (oak, ash) 30–40+ yrs . Hinges, soft-close runners…
Read guide →How Much Does a Carpentry Job Cost in 2026? (UK)
A qualified UK carpenter charges £180–£280 a day in 2026, or fixed prices for common jobs: £60–£120 to hang a door, £400–£700 for a stud wall, £1,200–£3,500 for bespoke fitted wardrobes. We break down first-fix vs…
Read guide →Do I Need Planning Permission for Carpentry? UK 2026
Most UK carpentry and joinery doesn't need planning permission in 2026 — fitted wardrobes, bespoke kitchens, flooring, internal doors all PD. Listed buildings need Listed Building Consent for original sash windows…
Read guide →Carpenter Day Rate 2026: UK Prices & Job Costs
UK carpenter and joiner day rates for 2026, with per-job prices for hanging doors, fitting skirting, staircases, decking and bespoke units, regional variation and what quotes exclude.
Read guide →Joiners Near Me 2026: How to Choose One (UK Guide)
Joinery is the precision end of woodwork: bespoke staircases, fitted wardrobes and second-fix finish. There is no honest ranking of joiners. What protects you is checking City & Guilds/NVQ qualifications, Guild of…
Read guide →Best Carpenters Near Me: How to Choose (2026 UK)
A 2026 UK buyer's guide to choosing a carpenter: the difference between first fix, second fix and joinery, which accreditations matter, typical day rates and how to compare quotes properly.
Read guide →🧣 Insulation & Energy Saving Guides
Awaab's Law Private Landlords: Damp & Mould Rules 2026
Awaab's Law does not yet cover private landlords — but the Renters' Rights Act 2025 will change that. The exact status in July 2026, the 24-hour and 10-day deadlines coming, fines up to £40,000, real damp and mould…
Read guide →ECO4 Grant 2026: Eligibility & How to Apply (UK)
Full 2026 UK guide to the ECO4 grant scheme: who qualifies (benefits or LA Flex), what's funded (up to £14,000 of insulation + heating), the 4-step application process, and how to avoid the cold-call scams surrounding…
Read guide →Does EPC Rating Affect House Value? UK 2026
Yes — but less than headlines suggest. Moving up one EPC band typically shifts value by only 1–2% ; the gap between a band G and a band C home is more meaningful. The larger effects are on saleability , access to green…
Read guide →Is a Warm Homes Plan Grant Worth It in 2026? (UK)
A Warm Homes Plan grant can be well worth it if you qualify — insulation and low-carbon heating funding cuts both upfront cost and bills. Whether it pays depends on your home, your eligibility and which measure you…
Read guide →Warm Homes Plan Grant 2026: Insulation Up to £15,000
How to apply for a 2026 Warm Homes Plan grant covering loft, cavity-wall and external insulation — eligibility, the 7-step application, what gets funded, plus a £12,400 case study.
Read guide →🚨 Alarms & Security Guides
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Burglar Alarm? 2026 UK
For a normal house, fitting a burglar alarm needs no planning permission — but the external bell box on a listed building needs Listed Building Consent, and CCTV that films beyond your boundary brings data-protection…
Read guide →Best Burglar Alarm Installers UK: How to Choose (2026)
A 2026 UK buyer's guide to choosing a burglar alarm installer: why NSI or SSAIB certification decides whether you can get police response and insurance recognition, alarm grades, monitoring options and realistic costs.
Read guide →📚 More Guides
Survey Found Problems? What to Fix Before You Move In (2026 UK)
Your survey found damp, roof or wiring problems. A 2026 UK guide to which findings matter, what to fix before you move in, and how to renegotiate with evidence.
Read guide →Moving Home Checklist 2026: Building Work to Do Before You Move In
A 2026 UK moving home checklist: which building work to do before you move in, when to book each trade, the services to arrange and the certificates to collect.
Read guide →Cost to Extend a Bungalow in 2026 (UK)
Extending a bungalow typically costs £2,000–£2,800 per m² in 2026, so a 20m² rear extension lands around £40,000–£56,000. Converting the roof space into bedrooms runs £35,000–£65,000, while adding a full second storey…
Read guide →Real 2026 Prices From Real UK Builders
Every cost figure in our guides is cross-referenced against three sources: real quotes from UK builders on our platform, industry reports from Rider Levett Bucknall, RICS, and the BCIS Building Cost Information Service, and homeowner feedback on completed projects.
Independently Verified
Prices cross-checked against BCIS, RICS and Rider Levett Bucknall 2026 data — not guesses.
UK-Specific Data
Regional variation built in — London, South East, Midlands, North, Wales and Scotland pricing.
Updated for 2026
Every guide reflects 2026 Part L Building Regs, 2026 labour rates, and current grant schemes.
Which guide do you need?
| If you want to know… | Start here |
|---|---|
| What a project should cost, and what is included at that price | Cost guides |
| Whether you need planning permission or it is permitted development | Planning guides |
| Which of two options is better value — materials, methods or suppliers | Comparison guides |
| How a job is actually done, step by step, and what to check | How-to guides |
| What is moving prices, timings and value in the wider market | Industry insights |
Most projects need two of these: a cost guide to set the budget and a planning guide to confirm you can build it. The quickest route to a firm number is the cost guide plus three quotes.
Where our figures come from
Every range is built from our 2026 regional cost model across 519 UK towns and cross-checked against published sources before publication. We publish ranges rather than single figures because a single figure is always wrong for somebody, and we state the regional variation separately because labour rates — not materials — are what make the same job cost different amounts in different parts of the country.
Every guide carries the date it was reviewed and the date it is next due. If a figure looks out of step with a quote you have been given, the quote is the better guide to your specific job — ours is the benchmark for judging whether it is fair.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, all of them, with no sign-up. BestBuilders is free for homeowners — we are paid by the trades who receive matched enquiries, never by you.
Each guide shows when it was last updated in the footer. Figures come from our 2026 regional cost model (national cost guides × regional labour index) rather than carried forward, and quarterly-moving costs are re-stated each quarter.
For most extensions, loft conversions, porches and outbuildings the answer is no — they fall under Permitted Development, provided you stay inside the size and siting limits. Flats and maisonettes, listed buildings and areas with an Article 4 direction are the main exceptions. See the planning guides for the limits that apply to each project type.
A guide gives you the range and what drives it; only a survey gives you a number. The fastest way to a firm figure is to use a cost guide to set expectations, then get three quotes on identical written scope — that comparison is usually worth more than any guide.
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