Price Guide

How Much Does a Builder Really Cost?

Compare prices for 14 services across 343 UK locations. Data-driven pricing updated for .

14 services priced 343 cities covered Updated

National pricing

Builder Prices

National average prices. Select a city below for local pricing.

Single Storey Extension

Low

£30,000

Average

£50,000

High

£80,000

8-12 weeks

Double Storey Extension

Low

£50,000

Average

£85,000

High

£140,000

12-20 weeks

Loft Conversion

Low

£25,000

Average

£45,000

High

£75,000

6-10 weeks

Garage Conversion

Low

£8,000

Average

£15,000

High

£25,000

2-4 weeks

Porch Build

Low

£2,500

Average

£4,500

High

£8,000

1-2 weeks

Garden Wall

Low

£800

Average

£1,500

High

£3,000

2-4 days

Knock Through Internal Wall

Low

£1,000

Average

£1,800

High

£3,500

2-4 days

Chimney Breast Removal

Low

£1,200

Average

£2,000

High

£3,500

2-4 days

Underpinning

Low

£5,000

Average

£12,000

High

£25,000

2-4 weeks

Damp Proof Course

Low

£500

Average

£1,200

High

£2,500

1-3 days

New Build Garage

Low

£10,000

Average

£18,000

High

£30,000

3-5 weeks

Outbuilding or Garden Room

Low

£12,000

Average

£25,000

High

£50,000

3-6 weeks

Structural Steelwork (RSJ Installation)

Low

£1,000

Average

£1,800

High

£3,000

1-2 days

Patio or Decking Build

Low

£1,500

Average

£3,500

High

£7,000

3-5 days

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Regional comparison

Single Storey Extension by City

Average cost of single storey extension across key UK cities.

London
+24% £62,150
Manchester
-2% £48,850
Birmingham
-7% £46,650
Glasgow
+5% £52,450
Bristol
+7% £53,750
Leeds
-3% £48,600
Cardiff
-2% £49,150
Belfast
-13% £43,500
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Local pricing

Find Builder Costs in Your City

Browse all 343 cities for local builder pricing.

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Overview

What Does a Builder Do?

A builder provides professional services covering extensions, conversions, structural work and general building projects. They handle everything from routine maintenance and inspections to full installations and emergency repairs. Whether you need a small repair or a major project, hiring a qualified builder ensures the work is done safely, to code, and to a professional standard.

You should hire a builder whenever you need work that requires specialist skills, tools, or qualifications. Many types of builder work are regulated and must be carried out by a certified professional. Attempting DIY on regulated work can be dangerous, void your insurance, and create costly problems down the line.

Pricing for builder services depends on the complexity of what you need, the options chosen, and where you live in the UK. Simpler services sit at the lower end of the scale, while more involved or premium options will be significantly more expensive. The prices on this page give you a realistic range for each type of service so you know what to expect before getting quotes.

When hiring a builder, always get at least three quotes from different tradespeople. Read recent reviews and ask for references. Always check qualifications, insurance and recent reviews. A reputable builder will be happy to provide a detailed breakdown of costs and explain exactly what is included in their quote.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about builder costs in the UK.

How much does a builder cost in the UK?
The most common builder job, single storey extension, costs between £30,000 and £80,000 nationally, with an average of £50,000. Prices vary depending on the scope of work, materials used, and your location within the UK.
What affects builder prices?
The main factors are the complexity and scope of what you need, the options and products chosen, and your location. London and the South East are typically 15-35% more expensive than northern regions. Getting multiple quotes is the best way to ensure a fair price.
How do I find a reliable builder?
Get at least three quotes from different tradespeople, check recent reviews and references, and ask for a detailed written quote that breaks down all costs before committing. Always check qualifications, insurance and recent reviews.
Do builder prices vary by location?
Yes, significantly. London is the most expensive area, with prices typically 20-35% above the national average. The South East is also above average. Northern England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland tend to be 5-15% below the national average. Our city pages show exact local pricing for 343 UK locations.
Do the prices shown include materials?
The prices on this page include all typical costs. However, when getting real quotes, always confirm what is and isn't included. Some tradespeople break out costs separately, while others give an all-in price. Ask for a detailed breakdown before agreeing to any work.
When is the best time to hire a builder?
Demand for builder services tends to peak in autumn and winter, which can mean longer wait times and higher prices. If your job isn't urgent, booking during spring or summer may get you a better rate and faster availability. Emergency work will always cost more regardless of the time of year.