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Home Improvement Guide

What These Projects Cost in 2026

One of the biggest challenges UK homeowners face is knowing whether a quote is fair. Prices vary considerably by region, tradesperson, and project scope. Here's a realistic overview of what our six specialist categories typically cost across the UK.

Porch Construction

A simple brick or UPVC porch typically costs £2,000–£4,500 supplied and fitted. Larger porches with brick pillars, tiled roofs, or bespoke glazing can run £5,000–£8,000+. Most porches under 3m² and below a certain height don't need planning permission, but always confirm with your local authority.

Exterior Painting

Painting the exterior of a typical three-bedroom semi costs roughly £1,200–£2,500, depending on render condition, scaffold access, and paint quality. Larger detached properties or those needing render repair first can run £3,000–£5,000+.

Garage Conversion

A basic single garage conversion into a habitable room typically costs £6,000–£12,000, including insulation, flooring, and electrics. Conversions adding a bathroom or full insulation upgrade can run £15,000–£20,000+. Building Regulations approval is required even where planning permission isn't.

Brick & Block Paving

A standard driveway in block paving typically costs £50–£90 per m², so a mid-sized driveway often lands around £3,000–£6,000 including groundwork and edging. Decorative patterns or permeable paving (often required for drainage compliance) can add to the cost.

CCTV Installation

A basic 4-camera wired CCTV system, professionally installed, typically costs £600–£1,200. Wireless or higher-resolution systems with remote monitoring can run £1,500–£3,000+ depending on coverage and number of cameras.

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 significant sums every year. Most problems are entirely avoidable if you follow the right steps before work begins.

Check Statutory Registrations First

For notifiable electrical work like a full rewire, use an NICEIC or NAPIT registered electrician — this is a legal requirement under Part P of the Building Regulations. For CCTV and security installations, look for accreditation with a body such as NSI or SSAIB. For garage conversions, confirm the work will meet Building Regulations, since these apply even when planning permission isn't needed. Failure to use a properly registered tradesperson for notifiable work 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