We do not vet or guarantee any roofer. Policies also differ, so read your own wording and ask your insurer if you are unsure.

First, make everyone safe

Stay off the roof, because a wet, damaged roof is dangerous. Keep people and pets away from rooms below any leak. If water is near sockets or light fittings, switch off the power at the fuse board. Call 999 if there is a risk to life.

Move furniture and valuables out of the wet area, and put buckets under drips. Cover what you cannot move. These small steps cost nothing, and they limit the damage while you arrange help.

Record the damage

Take clear photos or video before you move or repair anything, if it is safe to do so. Photograph the roof from the ground, the ceilings and any damaged belongings. Note the date and the weather.

Keep damaged items until your insurer tells you what to do. Photos matter because they show what the storm did, and they help your insurer to judge the claim.

Call your insurer early

Contact your buildings insurer as soon as you can. Many insurers run an emergency line, and they can tell you what they will pay for and whether you must use an approved roofer. Follow the call with a short written summary, and keep a note of who you spoke to.

Ask three questions on the call. What does my policy cover for storm damage? What is my excess? May I arrange urgent temporary repairs myself? Your answers shape what you do next.

What counts as a storm?

Policies define a storm in their own words, so check yours. The Association of British Insurers describes a storm as violent weather, such as gusts of at least 55mph, very heavy rain or heavy snow. Many insurers use a similar wind speed in their wording.

Gradual wear and tear is normally excluded. A roof that failed because it was old is unlikely to be covered, whereas sudden damage from a recorded storm often is. If your claim is refused and you disagree, you can complain to the insurer and then to the Financial Ombudsman Service, which is free to use.

Temporary repairs and permanent ones

Insurers generally expect you to stop further damage. A tarpaulin or a temporary patch is reasonable, and you should keep the invoice. However, you should not agree permanent repairs or large bills before your insurer says yes.

Tell your insurer about any urgent work when you report the claim. Some will pay a roofer directly, while others reimburse you. Ask which applies, because it affects how you pay.

Choosing a roofer after a storm

After a storm, strangers may knock on your door and offer cheap repairs. Do not agree to work on the doorstep. Trading Standards warns about this tactic, since the work is often poor or unnecessary.

Instead, get at least two or three written quotes. Ask for ID, proof of insurance and an itemised price that shows materials, scaffolding and waste removal. Check any trade body membership on the body’s own website. Our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust lists every check, and our roof repair cost guide shows typical prices.

What a repair quote should say

A good quote names the cause of the damage and the work to fix it. It lists the materials, the price and the timing. It also says who pays for scaffolding, since scaffolding can add £1,000 to £2,000 to a full re-roof in one price guide.

Send the quote to your insurer before work starts. Keep every receipt and every photo, because you may need them later.

Find a roofer near you

You can send us your roofing job and we will pass it to local roofers, who can quote for the work. See our page on roofers near you for the checks to make first.

• south of England: roofers in London, roofers in Brighton, roofers in Portsmouth, roofers in Oxford and roofers in Plymouth.
• Midlands and East: roofers in Birmingham, roofers in Coventry, roofers in Nottingham and roofers in Norwich.
• North: roofers in Manchester, roofers in Leeds, roofers in Liverpool, roofers in Newcastle and roofers in Hull.
• Wales and the South West: roofers in Cardiff, roofers in Swansea and roofers in Bristol.
• Scotland: roofers in Glasgow, roofers in Edinburgh and roofers in Aberdeen.

Read next

• Flat roof repair options
• How to vet a tradesman
• Builder quotes explained
• Emergency boiler replacement
• How to check an electrician is registered

We do not vet or guarantee any tradesperson, including those who reply to our quote form. These checks put the power back in your hands.

Before you search

Ask for the tradesperson’s full name, business name, address and the registration they claim. Write them down, because you will use them in each search. A real professional gives this information without fuss, and a hesitant answer is itself a signal.

Keep the quote in writing, because you will compare its details with what the registers show. For a fuller walk-through of the principles, read our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust.

Check the business exists

If the business is a limited company, search for it on Companies House. The search is free, and it shows whether the company is active and who runs it. A company that was only set up last month is not automatically bad, yet it has no track record.

If the quote shows a VAT number, you can check it on the government’s VAT number checker, although small firms may not be registered. A name or address that does not match is a reason to ask questions.

Check the registration for the trade

Use the register for the job. Search it yourself, because a badge on a van proves nothing.

• Gas and boilers. Use the Gas Safe Register’s check, or text the seven-digit licence number from the engineer’s ID card. The card should also list the type of work they may do.
• Electrics. Check the scheme the electrician names, such as NICEIC or NAPIT. In England and Wales, the Registered Competent Person Electrical register covers the approved schemes.
• Locks and security. The Master Locksmiths Association lists approved locksmiths.
• Builders. Search the Federation of Master Builders or TrustMark.
• Roofing. In England, check the Competent Roofer scheme or a trade body such as the NFRC.
• Plumbing. WaterSafe lists approved plumbers.

Check insurance

Ask for proof of public liability insurance and look at the dates. It should still cover the type and size of your job. A tradesperson without insurance may leave you to pay for damage. If you are unsure, ask the insurer to confirm the policy, which most will do.

Read reviews, then call a reference

Look at reviews on independent sites, not only the tradesperson’s own page. Read recent ones, and read the words as well as the stars, because words show detail. Then ask for one or two past customers and call them. Our guide to reading tradesperson reviews explains what to look for.

Locksmiths need extra care

Lockouts are stressful, which makes them a favourite for overcharging, since people pay fast. Agree the total price before the locksmith sets out, including call-out, labour, parts and VAT. Ask for a local address, and be wary of firms that will not give one. Our page on emergency locksmiths lists more tips.

• Local pages: Locksmiths in London, Locksmiths in Birmingham, Locksmiths in Manchester and Locksmiths in Leeds. See also our overview of locksmiths near you.

Know your rights

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, services must be done with reasonable care and skill. While you sign at home, you normally have 14 days to cancel, with exceptions for urgent work you ask for. Citizens Advice can explain your options if something goes wrong.

Put it together

Run the checks in this order: business, registration, insurance, reviews, quote. If a step fails, ask why, because there may be a fair answer. If you do not like the answer, move on to the next quote. You can send us your job to compare quotes from local tradespeople.

Read next

• Builder quotes explained
• How to check an electrician is registered
• Emergency boiler replacement
• Storm damage roof repair and insurance
• Flat roof repair options

Published guides put a new driveway at roughly £30 to £175 per square metre in 2026, depending on the material. Gravel and tarmac are the cheapest, resin sits in the middle, and block paving costs the most. A typical two-car drive of about 50 m² often lands between £2,500 and £8,000.

The guides disagree by up to double for the same material, so use the ranges as a benchmark, since real prices depend on your site. Get written quotes that state what is included.

Driveway cost at a glance

For a single drive of about 40 m², one trade guide gives £4,500 to £8,000 for block paving, £3,500 to £7,000 for resin, and £2,500 to £5,000 for tarmac or concrete. Those totals include digging out, the sub-base and basic drainage, but not gates, walls or lighting.

Cost by material

Gravel

Gravel is cheap and quick, and it drains well, although it needs care. It needs edging to hold it in, and it can move under tyres.

Tarmac

Tarmac gives a smooth, hard surface at a modest price. Quality depends on the sub-base, so ask how deep it will be.

Resin-bound

Resin-bound surfaces are smooth, permeable and long-lasting, with a typical life of 15 to 20 years in one guide. They need a sound base, so a poor existing surface adds cost.

Block paving

Block paving looks smart and repairs easily, because you can lift single blocks. It costs the most, and permeable types cost more again.

What changes the price

• Size. Small jobs cost more per square metre.
• Existing surface. Removing an old drive adds cost.
• Sub-base depth. A deeper base costs more but lasts longer.
• Access. Tight access slows the work.
• Location. London and the South East are dearer.
• Extras. Edging, drainage, kerbs and lighting add up.

Rules to check

Because of drainage rules, paving more than five square metres of front garden in England with a hard surface needs either planning permission or a permeable surface, or drainage to a lawn or border. A dropped kerb needs your council’s permission. Ask your installer to confirm what applies in your area, and get it in writing.

How to save

Compare at least three quotes that show groundwork, drainage and materials separately, because that is where quotes differ. Choose a simple shape. Avoid winter if you can, since wet weather slows work. Ask what guarantee the installer gives and who stands behind it.

Getting quotes

To compare, send us your job and we will pass it to local builders and landscapers. We do not vet them, so check each one with our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust. You can also read about builders near you.

Where these figures come from

We checked MyJobQuote, e-architect, Trade2base and a 2026 tarmac guide in October 2026. Several are contractor or lead-generation sites. Supplier-only prices are not comparable, so we used installed prices only, while noting outliers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a resin driveway cost?

Guides suggest about £70 to £140 per square metre installed, so a 40 m² drive is roughly £3,500 to £7,000 in one trade guide.

How much does block paving cost per m²?

Between about £70 and £175 per square metre installed, according to different guides. Permeable block paving costs more.

What is the cheapest type of driveway?

Gravel and tarmac are usually the cheapest. Compare installed prices, not supply-only prices.

Do I need planning permission for a new driveway?

Not always. In England, a hard surface over five square metres in a front garden needs a permeable surface or drainage, or planning permission. A dropped kerb needs council permission.

Most price guides put an electrician at about £40 to £70 an hour for normal domestic work. A safety report (EICR) on a three-bedroom house often costs about £180 to £300, and a full rewire costs several thousand pounds. London and the South East usually cost more.

The guides disagree, so use these ranges as a benchmark and compare written quotes, because every home differs.

Electrician cost at a glance

Cost by job

Hourly rate and call-out

Checkatrade puts a typical electrician near £50 an hour, with a day rate around £400. HaMuch suggests £40 to £70 for standard domestic work, and more in London. Many electricians set a minimum charge, often for the first hour, since travel takes time.

EICR safety report

An Electrical Installation Condition Report tests the wiring you already have. Skills Training Group, Trade2base and Fantastic Services suggest about £180 to £350 for a house, with London higher. The price covers inspection and the report. Repairs are extra, because faults found must be fixed.

Consumer unit upgrade

A new consumer unit replaces an old fuse box. Fantastic Services suggests £450 to £750 outside London, and £700 to £1,200 in London and the South East. Whito’s range is £350 to £800. Moving the unit costs more, while a like-for-like swap costs less.

Full house rewire

For a three-bedroom house, Bookabuilder suggests £6,000 to £9,500, Fantastic Services £5,500 to £8,000 and Whito £4,450 to £8,000. Making good afterwards can add £500 to £2,500, so ask whether the quote includes it.

What affects electrician cost

• Size of the home. More rooms mean more cable and more time.
• Access. Solid floors and finished walls take longer.
• Condition. Old wiring may need more work than first thought.
• Location. London and the South East cost more.
• Certificates. Testing and paperwork should be in the price.

How to save on electrical costs

Group small jobs into one visit, because a minimum charge applies per visit. Get an EICR before you plan a rewire, since it shows what is really needed. Ask for itemised quotes that show materials, labour and certificates, so you can compare them.

However, cheap quotes can leave out the consumer unit or the certificate, so compare like for like. Always use a registered electrician for notifiable work. Our electricians page explains the schemes, and our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust covers the other checks. To compare quotes, send us your job.

Where these figures come from

We checked price guides from Checkatrade, HaMuch, Fantastic Services, Whito, Bookabuilder, Trade2base and Skills Training Group in October 2026. Most are commercial sites rather than official bodies, so they differ. We show ranges that overlap and mention the outliers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an electrician cost per hour in the UK?

Most guides say about £40 to £70 for normal domestic work. Emergency work costs more, while London is dearer still.

How much does it cost to rewire a house?

For a three-bedroom house, guides suggest about £4,500 to £9,500, before making good. Ask for a fixed price and check what it covers.

How much does an EICR cost?

About £180 to £300 for a three-bedroom house outside London. Repairs are extra, because the report only tests.

How much does a fuse box upgrade cost?

About £450 to £800 outside London. London and the South East are often £700 to £1,200.

Do I need a registered electrician for every job?

Not for every tiny task, but you should for anything beyond a simple swap. In England, new circuits and consumer units are notifiable.

Published guides put a single-storey extension at roughly £1,800 to £3,500 per square metre in 2026, before VAT, fees and fit-out. Double-storey rates per square metre tend to run lower, because the foundations and roof serve two floors, but the total bill is larger. London and the South East cost more.

The guides disagree, so use the numbers as a benchmark. Get itemised quotes for your own project.

House extension cost at a glance

Checkatrade’s examples for a standard quality build are £60,000 to £84,000 for a 30 m² single-storey extension, and £108,000 to £180,000 for a 60 m² two-storey one.

What the per-metre price leaves out

The per-square-metre figure covers the structure only. A real budget needs more lines. Ask each builder whether their quote includes them.

• VAT at 20% on most building work.
• Professional fees for design, planning and structural engineering.
• A kitchen or bathroom. One guide adds £5,000 to £15,000 for a fitted kitchen and £4,500 to £9,000 for a family bathroom.
• Glazing, flooring and decoration.
• Landscaping and making good outside.

Single or double storey?

A double-storey extension costs more overall, since it adds more space. MyJobQuote suggests that, with equal floor areas, it costs roughly 50% to 75% more than a single storey. The cost per square metre is lower, so it often gives better value if you need the room.

Rules to check first

Planning permission is not always needed, because many single-storey rear extensions fall under permitted development in England. Check with your council, since limits apply. Most extensions need Building Regulations approval. In England and Wales, the Party Wall Act may apply if you build near a shared wall. In Scotland you may need a building warrant.

What changes the price

• Location. London and the South East add roughly 20% to 25%.
• Site access. A tight terrace costs more per square metre.
• Ground conditions. Poor ground needs deeper foundations.
• Finish. High-end finishes and large glazed doors add up.
• Complexity. Steel beams and flat roof lights add cost.

How to save

Compare at least three itemised quotes. Keep the shape simple, because every corner adds cost. Fix your design before the builder starts, since changes during the job are dear. Use our list of questions to ask a builder and read how to compare in our article on builder quotes explained.

Getting quotes

To compare, send us your job and we will pass it to local builders. We do not vet them, so check each builder with our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust. You can also read about builders near you.

Where these figures come from

We checked Whito, Bookabuilder, MyJobQuote, Checkatrade and Homebuilding in October 2026. Several are contractor or lead-generation sites, and their numbers do not agree. We show overlapping ranges and name outliers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a house extension cost in 2026?

For a single-storey extension, guides suggest roughly £1,800 to £3,500 per square metre before VAT and fees. A 30 m² build can therefore cost £60,000 or more.

Is a double-storey extension better value?

Per square metre, often yes. In total it costs more, so it suits you if you need the extra space.

Do I need planning permission for an extension?

Not always. Many single-storey rear extensions count as permitted development in England, but limits apply. Check with your council.

Does the price include a kitchen?

Usually not. A fitted kitchen usually sits on a separate line, so ask each builder.

A full kitchen renovation runs from roughly £6,000 to £18,000 for a budget refit, up to £35,000 or more for mid-range and premium kitchens, according to published guides. Fitting alone costs far less than the whole project. London and the South East cost more.

The guides disagree, so use the ranges as a benchmark, because kitchens vary widely.

Kitchen renovation cost at a glance

Where the money goes

BestBuilders estimates the split of a typical project. For example, roughly 30% goes on units and carcases, 15% to 20% on worktops, 15% to 20% on appliances, and 30% to 35% on labour. That is why swapping a worktop or appliance range can change the total a lot.

What changes the price

Several choices matter more than the size of the room, because they drive the total.

• Moving services. Relocating the sink, hob or drains often adds £1,500 to £4,500.
• Units. Flat-pack costs less than made-to-measure.
• Worktops. Laminate is cheap and stone is dear.
• Appliances. Brand and number make a large difference.
• Location. London and the South East can add 20% to 30%.
• Condition. Old plaster, floors and wiring may need work first.

Who does the work

A kitchen project often needs several trades. While a fitter hangs units, while a plumber, an electrician and a plasterer may also be needed. Some firms manage the whole job for a single price. Ask who is responsible for each part. Electrical and gas work must be done by registered people, as explained on our electricians page and plumbers page.

How to save

Keep the layout, because moving services is costly. Choose mid-range units and spend on the parts you use daily. Buy appliances in a sale, and agree the fitting date after the units arrive. Compare at least three itemised quotes and read what each one includes.

Getting quotes

To compare, send us your job and we will pass it to local tradespeople, including builders and handymen. We do not vet them, so check each one using our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust. You can also read about builders near you.

Where these figures come from

We checked Checkatrade (its table dates from 2024), BestBuilders, Fantastic Services and Trade2base in October 2026. Prices vary by region and specification, and the sources differ.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a kitchen renovation cost in 2026?

Guides suggest about £6,000 to £18,000 for a budget refit, and £18,000 to £35,000 for mid-range. Premium kitchens cost more, because materials drive the price.

How much does it cost to fit a kitchen?

Labour for a standard installation is about £1,700 to £3,000 in one guide, and Checkatrade gives an average fitting price near £5,200. Fitters often charge £250 to £350 a day.

How can I renovate a kitchen on a budget?

Keep the layout, since moving services is costly. Choose flat-pack units and reuse good appliances. Painting or replacing doors can also refresh a kitchen at a lower cost.

Is the quote for fitting only?

Not always. Ask whether it includes units, worktops, appliances, plumbing, electrics and making good.

Published guides put a typical UK loft conversion at roughly £30,000 to £85,000 in 2026. The type of conversion matters most. A simple rooflight conversion costs far less than a mansard, and London is dearer than most of the country.

The guides disagree, so use the figures as a benchmark. Get itemised quotes for your own home, because roofs differ.

Loft conversion cost at a glance

The per-square-metre figures come from MyJobQuote’s national table. The totals are for a standard 30 m² loft in a 2026 summary of UK costs. Checkatrade’s average is around £50,000, with a rooflight conversion averaging about £27,500.

Cost by type

Velux or rooflight conversion

This is the cheapest type, because it keeps the roof shape and adds windows. It suits lofts with enough headroom. It adds less space than a dormer.

Dormer conversion

A dormer adds a box to the roof, which gives more headroom and floor space. It is the most common type, although it costs more than a rooflight. Many dormers need no planning permission in England, but check with your council.

Hip-to-gable conversion

This replaces a sloping side of the roof with a vertical wall. Since it needs a side wall, it suits semi-detached and end-of-terrace homes, and it often combines with a dormer.

Mansard conversion

A mansard changes the whole roof shape and gives the most space. It costs the most, because it almost always needs planning permission.

What a quote should include

A good quote lists structural work, insulation, stairs, windows, electrics, heating and plastering. Ask whether it includes fees, VAT and Building Regulations sign-off. An en-suite bathroom is often priced separately, at about £5,000 to £12,000 in one guide.

What changes the price

• Location. London runs roughly 20% to 25% above many other areas.
• Access. Poor access makes labour dearer.
• Roof condition. Repairs before the conversion add cost.
• Finish. Fitted storage and high-end fittings add up.
• Size. Bigger lofts cost more in total, yet less per square metre.

Rules to check

Many conversions need Building Regulations approval, even though they may need no planning permission. Where the loft shares a wall with a neighbour, the Party Wall Act may apply in England and Wales. In Scotland you may need a building warrant. Ask your builder to confirm what applies, and get it in writing.

How to save

Compare at least three itemised quotes. Choose the simplest type that gives the space you need. Settle your design early, because changes during the job cost more. Our list of questions to ask a builder helps you compare.

Getting quotes

To compare, send us your job and we will pass it to local builders. We do not vet them, so check each one with our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust. You can also read about builders near you.

Where these figures come from

We checked MyJobQuote, Checkatrade (through the Hackney HOA guide), Trade2base, PlanWatch and a 2026 summary of UK loft costs in October 2026. They disagree widely, and many quote per-square-metre rates before VAT and fees. We show overlapping ranges.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a loft conversion cost in 2026?

Guides suggest roughly £30,000 to £85,000, depending on type, size and location, so check your own.

How much is a dormer loft conversion?

About £40,000 to £60,000 for a standard loft in one 2026 summary, and about £1,500 to £2,000 per square metre in MyJobQuote’s national table.

Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?

Often not for rooflight and many dormer conversions in England, but mansards usually need it. Check with your council before you start.

How long does a loft conversion take?

It depends on the type and the builder. Ask for a written programme and what happens if the job overruns.

Most price guides put a like-for-like combi boiler swap, fully fitted, at about £1,800 to £3,500 in 2026. London and the South East usually cost more, and moving the boiler or changing the type of system adds to the bill.

The guides disagree, so use the range as a benchmark, because every home differs. Get written quotes from Gas Safe registered engineers for your own home.

New boiler cost at a glance

What a quote should include

A fitted price should cover the boiler, the labour, standard pipework and a flue. Check that it also covers a new thermostat or controls, a carbon monoxide alarm, removal of the old boiler and the warranty. Extras such as a magnetic filter or a smart thermostat may cost more, so ask.

Be careful with listed prices that show the boiler only, because they leave out fitting. Fitting is a large part of the total.

What changes the price

Several things move the price of a boiler job, although the type matters most.

• Type. A combi is the usual choice for small homes. Larger homes with several bathrooms may need a system boiler and a cylinder.
• Output and make. A bigger or better-known boiler costs more.
• Position. Moving the boiler needs extra pipework and a new flue.
• Condition of the system. Old pipes may need cleaning or flushing.
• Location. London and the South East are dearer, by roughly 10% to 20% in one guide.

Repair or replace?

A repair of £150 to £400 is often worth it for a boiler that is otherwise sound. However, when the boiler is old and the repair is large, a new one may cost less over time. Our guide on when to replace a boiler lists the signs. If yours has failed today, see emergency boiler repair.

Grants and ways to save

Grants rarely cover a like-for-like gas boiler. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme supports heat pumps instead, as our boiler grants guide explains. You can still save in other ways. Compare at least three quotes, ask about fixed-price packages and book outside the coldest weeks.

How to get quotes

Only a Gas Safe registered engineer may fit a gas boiler, since it is the law. Ask to see the ID card and check the number on the register. Ask for a written, itemised quote and the warranty terms. To compare, send us your job and we will pass it to local plumbers and heating engineers. We do not vet them, so the checks are yours to make. See plumbers near you.

Where these figures come from

We checked price guides from MyJobQuote, Fantastic Services, Heatable, Ethy, Housekeep and Checkatrade in October 2026. A government benchmark puts replacement gas boilers at roughly £1,600 to £4,000, which fits the wider spread. Most guides are commercial, so treat them as a guide.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a new boiler cost to install in 2026?

About £1,800 to £3,500 for a like-for-like combi, fully fitted, in most guides. London and bigger jobs cost more.

How much does it cost to fix a boiler?

Fantastic Services and Housekeep suggest about £150 to £400 for common faults. Checkatrade gives a wider range, from about £120 to £750.

Is a new boiler cheaper to run?

Often, because modern condensing boilers are more efficient than old ones. The saving depends on your home and how you use heating, so ask the engineer for an estimate.

Can I get a grant for a new gas boiler?

Rarely, since the main schemes fund heat pumps. See our guide to boiler grants for what each scheme does fund.

Does the quote include VAT?

Check, because some prices include VAT and some do not. Ask for the final total.

Most price guides put a plumber at about £40 to £70 an hour in 2026. Call-out fees often run from about £60 to £120. London and the South East cost more, and emergency work costs extra.

These figures come from published guides, and the guides disagree. Treat them as a benchmark, then compare written quotes for your own job.

Plumber cost at a glance

How plumbers price a job

Plumbers charge in one of three ways, and each suits a different job. Knowing which one a plumber offers helps you compare quotes fairly.

Hourly rate

You pay for the time on site, plus parts. This suits small or unclear jobs, because nobody knows the time in advance. Ask for an estimate of the hours and a cap.

Call-out fee

A call-out fee covers the visit, and sometimes the first hour. Fees vary widely, so ask what they cover. Some firms charge a low call-out and then a high hourly rate.

Fixed price

For a clear job, such as fitting a tap or replacing a toilet, a fixed price removes the guesswork. Ask what it includes, for example parts, waste removal and VAT.

Emergency and out-of-hours costs

Emergency work costs more because of the short notice. Logic4training reports surcharges of up to 50% or time-and-a-half, and some firms charge more. Call-out fees for emergencies can reach £150 or above.

A temporary fix, such as turning off the water, followed by a booked daytime visit, often costs less. Our emergency plumber page shows what to do first.

What affects the cost

Several things move the price, and most are easy to check.

• Location. London and the South East are dearer.
• Time. Evenings, weekends and bank holidays cost more.
• Access. A hidden pipe takes longer to reach.
• Parts. Cheap parts cost less now but may fail sooner.
• Gas work. A Gas Safe engineer may charge more, because the work needs registration.

How to avoid overpaying

Get at least three written quotes, because prices differ between plumbers. Ask for the total, not only the hourly rate. Group small jobs into one visit, since a call-out fee is paid once. Check the plumber’s registration so you do not pay twice for poor work.

Our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust lists the checks. To start comparing, send us your job and we will pass it to local plumbers. You can also read about plumbers near you.

Where these figures come from

We checked price guides from Watersafe, Checkatrade, MyBuilder, MyJobQuote, Trade2base and Logic4training in October 2026. Price-comparison or trade-software sites write most of them, not official bodies, so they disagree. We show the overlapping range and name the outliers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a plumber cost per hour in the UK?

About £40 to £70 an hour in most guides, with London higher. Gas Safe engineers tend to charge more than plumbers who do not work on gas.

What is the average plumber call-out fee?

Guides we checked suggest about £60 to £120, although some firms charge more. Ask what the fee covers, because some firms add labour on top.

How much does an emergency plumber cost?

Expect a call-out of about £60 to £150 plus labour and parts, with out-of-hours surcharges. Agree the total before the plumber starts.

Is it cheaper to pay a fixed price or by the hour?

A fixed price is safer when the job is clear. Hourly pricing suits unclear faults. Either way, ask for a written quote.

How do I avoid overpaying a plumber?

Compare three quotes, ask what each includes, and check registrations. Be wary of a price that is far below the others.

Most roof repairs cost a few hundred pounds. MyJobQuote puts the average UK repair at about £530, with most jobs between £60 and £1,000. A full re-roof of a three-bedroom semi costs far more, usually about £6,000 to £12,000. Access and scaffolding often decide the price.

The guides disagree, so use the ranges as a benchmark and get written quotes, because every roof differs.

Roof repair cost at a glance

Natural slate adds roughly £2,000 to £5,000 over concrete tile in one guide, although prices vary. Roofers often charge about £30 to £45 an hour for repairs.

Cost by job

Slipped or broken tiles

Replacing a few tiles is usually a small job. Price depends on access, because a roof reached by ladder is cheap to work on and one that needs scaffolding is not.

Leaks

A leak can come from tiles, flashing or the roof edge, not only where the stain shows. Finding the source takes skill and time, so expect a fee for diagnosis. Ask the roofer to explain what they found and show photos.

Flat roofs

Small patch repairs are cheap, while a full replacement in felt, rubber or fibreglass costs more. Ask which material the quote uses, and how long it should last.

Ridge tiles, flashing and guttering

These repairs are usually modest, but they often need access equipment. Combining them in one visit can cut the cost.

What changes the price

• Access. A three-storey home costs far more to reach.
• Roof size and pitch. Steeper, bigger roofs cost more.
• Materials. Slate costs more than concrete tile.
• Scaffolding. Ask for it as a separate line.
• Location. London and the South East usually cost 10% to 35% more, depending on the guide.

Storm damage and insurance

If a storm damaged your roof, call your insurer before you pay for repairs, because some policies need approval first. Take dated photos and keep receipts. Ask whether you must use an approved roofer. Wear and tear is usually not covered, whereas sudden storm damage often is, but policies differ.

After a storm, strangers may knock on your door and offer cheap repairs. Do not agree to work on the doorstep, because that is a common trick. Read our article on storm damage roof repair and insurance for the full steps.

How to save

Fix small problems early, because water damage grows. Get at least three itemised quotes. Combine repairs in one visit to share the scaffolding. Ask what guarantee the roofer gives and who stands behind it.

Getting quotes

To compare, send us your job and we will pass it to local roofers. We do not vet them, so check each one with our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust. You can also read about roofers near you.

Where these figures come from

We checked MyJobQuote, Trade2base, Pocketwise and Whito in October 2026. They are commercial sites, so the figures differ.

Frequently asked questions

How much does roof repair cost in the UK in 2026?

About £150 to £400 for a minor repair in most guides, with an average near £530. Bigger repairs and hard access cost more, since scaffolding adds up.

How much does it cost to fix a roof leak?

About £300 to £1,000 in one guide. The cost depends on the cause, because finding the source takes time.

How much does a new roof cost?

For a three-bedroom semi, guides suggest roughly £5,500 to £12,000. Slate and scaffolding add to the cost, while concrete tiles keep it lower.

How much does a flat roof replacement cost?

About £1,500 to £5,000 for a typical flat roof, depending on size, material and drainage.

There is no general grant for replacing a gas boiler with another gas boiler. The main schemes fund a move away from fossil fuels, or help low-income households. Which one applies depends on your home and circumstances, so check the official pages before you plan around any grant.

Rules and amounts change, because schemes open and close. We last checked this guide in October 2026, and you should confirm every figure on GOV.UK and the scheme pages before you act.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) helps homeowners in England and Wales switch to low-carbon heating. It does not fund a new gas boiler. It supports heat pumps, and biomass boilers in rural homes that are off the gas grid.

At the time of writing, the government’s grants listing shows £7,500 off an air source or ground source heat pump, and £5,000 off a biomass boiler. Energy Saving Trust reports a temporary higher grant of £9,000 for eligible off-gas homes from 21 July 2026 to 31 March 2027. Amounts and end dates can change, so check the current figure.

To qualify, the home needs a valid energy performance certificate, and an MCS-certified installer must fit the system. The installer applies for the voucher for you. Your first step is therefore to get quotes from certified installers, not to fill in a grant form.

ECO4

ECO4 (the Energy Company Obligation) is paid for by energy suppliers. While it was open, it aimed to improve heating and insulation for low-income and vulnerable households in less efficient homes. Eligibility depends on means.

The government has confirmed that ECO4 ends on 31 December 2026, with no further extension and no direct successor. Some installers and councils describe it as closed to new work already. If you think you may qualify, ask your energy supplier or local council what help is still on offer.

If there is no grant

If you simply need a like-for-like gas boiler, there is no grant route. You can still bring the cost down. Compare at least three written quotes, ask about fixed-price packages and avoid peak winter if you can. Our new boiler cost guide has more.

How to check your eligibility

1. Read the current Boiler Upgrade Scheme page on GOV.UK.
2. Ask an MCS-certified installer whether your home qualifies.
3. Ask your local council about help for low-income households.
4. Do not commit to a grant-funded system until you have the scheme terms in writing.

You can also send us your job to compare quotes from local heating engineers. We do not vet or guarantee them, so check each engineer on the Gas Safe Register.

Keep reading and compare quotes

Once you know what you can claim, ask for quotes from plumbers in London, plumbers in Manchester or plumbers in Birmingham. You can also start from our plumbers page.

Not sure whether your boiler is worth replacing? Read when to replace a boiler. Before you book anyone, see how to find a tradesman you can trust.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a free boiler in the UK?

Not for a standard like-for-like gas boiler. Some low-income households may have had help through ECO4, which ends on 31 December 2026. Ask your supplier or council.

Does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme pay for a new gas boiler?

No, because it funds heat pumps, and biomass boilers in some rural homes. Homes in England and Wales can apply.

How much is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant worth?

The government’s grants listing shows £7,500 for a heat pump at the time of writing. A temporary higher grant applies to some off-gas homes. Check the current figure before you budget.

Do I apply for the scheme myself?

No, since your MCS-certified installer applies for the voucher on your behalf.

Checkatrade, MyBuilder and Rated People are three of the best-known ways to find a tradesperson in the UK. All three are free for homeowners, but they work in different ways. This guide explains the differences in plain terms.

Terms, fees and checks change, so read each company’s own website before you rely on anything here. We are a separate service and do not work for any of them.

At a glance

How each one works

Checkatrade

Checkatrade is a directory. You search for a trade in your area, read profiles and reviews and contact traders directly. Tradespeople pay a membership to be listed. Checkatrade says it checks members before they join, so read its own description of the checks and what they cover.

MyBuilder

On MyBuilder you post a job, and interested tradespeople respond. You compare their profiles, past work and feedback, then choose who to talk to. Tradespeople pay when they take part, not homeowners.

Rated People

Rated People works in a similar way to MyBuilder, although the details differ. You post a job for free and receive responses from interested tradespeople. Tradespeople pay to take part, and only customers who used the site can leave a review there.

Checks and reviews

Each site says something different about how it checks tradespeople, and the depth varies. A checked listing is a good start, but it never replaces your own checks. Ask for ID and insurance, and search any registration yourself.

Reviews also work differently, because each site collects them in its own way. Read how it handles complaints. Our guide to reading tradesperson reviews shows what to look for.

Which suits you?

For a big project where checks matter most, a directory with member profiles may feel safer, because you can browse at your own pace. For one specific job, posting it and letting tradespeople come to you can save time. For small jobs, try more than one route, since the best price may come from either.

Whatever you pick, get at least three written quotes, because one quote tells you little. Compare them like for like.

Another way to compare

You can also send us your job. We pass it to up to five local tradespeople, and you compare the quotes. It is free for you. We do not vet or guarantee the tradespeople who respond, so the checks in our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust still apply.

Locksmiths by city

Compare quotes from locksmiths in your city.

• Locksmiths in London
• Locksmiths in Birmingham
• Locksmiths in Manchester
• Locksmiths in Leeds

Keep reading and compare quotes

Our builders page explains what to expect from the quotes you receive. The same checks apply to every trade.

For more on judging a tradesperson, read how to read tradesperson reviews and questions to ask a builder.

Frequently asked questions

Is Checkatrade or MyBuilder better?

Neither is better for every job. Checkatrade suits browsing profiles, while MyBuilder suits posting a job and comparing responses. Try both if the job is large.

Are these tradesman sites free to use?

They are free for homeowners, while tradespeople pay in different ways. Check each site’s terms.

Which site is best for small jobs?

Sites that let you post a job and receive responses often suit small jobs. Describe the work clearly so tradespeople can price it.

Is it cheaper to use a directory or hire direct?

It depends on the job. A directory can save you time, but it does not set the price. Compare written quotes either way.

You can find a good tradesperson by checking a few things before you agree to any work. Get at least three written quotes, check ID and insurance, search the right register and read independent reviews. None of these steps is hard, and together they filter out most bad hires.

We do not vet or guarantee any tradesperson, including those who reply to our quote form. This guide shows you how to do the checks yourself.

Start with three names

Word of mouth is still the best source, because a neighbour has seen the work and the manners. Online directories and review sites add more names. Whichever route you use, shortlist at least three tradespeople.

Three quotes show you the normal price and the odd one out. A single quote tells you very little. You can also send us your job and compare the quotes that come back.

Step 1: check they are who they say they are

Ask for the person’s full name, business name and address. A real business gives these freely. If it is a limited company, search for it on Companies House, which is free and shows whether the company is active.

Check the contact details too. A landline or a local address is reassuring, whereas a mobile number alone proves little. If the person is VAT registered, the quote should show a VAT number, and you can check it on the government’s website.

Step 2: check qualifications and registrations

Some trades have a register you can search. Always search it yourself, because a logo on a van proves nothing.

• Gas work: the Gas Safe Register. Ask to see the ID card and check the number online.
• Electrical work: a competent person scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT, both with online searches.
• Plumbing: WaterSafe lists approved plumbers.
• Locksmiths: the Master Locksmiths Association lists approved members.
• Builders: the Federation of Master Builders and TrustMark both have searches.
• Roofers: the Competent Roofer scheme in England and trade bodies such as the NFRC.

Membership shows the tradesperson passed that body’s checks. It is not a promise about your job, so keep checking the other steps.

Step 3: confirm they are insured

Ask for proof of public liability insurance. It pays out if the work damages your home or a neighbour’s. Ask to see the certificate, check the dates and check that the cover matches the size of the job.

For bigger projects, ask how any guarantee works and who stands behind it. A guarantee is only as good as the company that gives it, since a firm that closes cannot honour it.

Step 4: read reviews with care

Reviews help, but they can mislead. Look at several sources rather than the tradesperson’s own site, because a business picks what it shows. Our guide to reading tradesperson reviews covers this in more detail.

Look for a steady pattern of recent reviews, written in plain, specific terms. Be wary of a flawless score with only a few reviews. Ask for the contact details of one or two past customers, and actually call them.

Step 5: get written quotes and compare

A proper quote lists the work, the materials, the total price, the start date and how long the job should take. It should say what is not included and whether VAT applies. Compare like with like, because a quote that leaves things out looks cheaper than it is.

Be wary of a price far below the rest. It may leave out work, or the tradesperson may plan to add costs later. Our questions to ask a builder work for any trade.

Warning signs

Walk away if you see any of these signs.

• They knock on your door, or tell you the work cannot wait.
• They ask for a large payment upfront, or for cash only.
• They will not give a written quote, a full address or proof of insurance.
• They claim a registration but cannot give a number.
• They push you to decide on the spot.

Cold callers are a classic route for rogue traders, so Trading Standards advises against agreeing work on the doorstep. If something goes wrong, Citizens Advice can explain your rights.

Know your rights

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, services must be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If you sign a contract at your home or by phone, you normally have 14 days to cancel, although this changes if you ask for urgent work to start straight away. Ask about this before you sign.

Roofers by city

Compare quotes from roofers in your city.

• Roofers in London
• Roofers in Manchester
• Roofers in Bristol
• Roofers in Leeds
• Roofers in Birmingham
• Roofers in Liverpool
• Roofers in Aberdeen
• Roofers in Edinburgh
• Roofers in Cardiff
• Roofers in Nottingham
• Roofers in Newcastle
• Roofers in Norwich
• Roofers in Coventry
• Roofers in Glasgow
• Roofers in Plymouth
• Roofers in Oxford
• Roofers in Swansea
• Roofers in Brighton
• Roofers in Hull
• Roofers in Portsmouth

Keep reading and compare quotes

Each city page covers prices, how to choose and how to get free quotes in that area. For other trades, start from our electricians page or plumbers page.

To weigh up the quote sites themselves, read Checkatrade vs MyBuilder vs Rated People.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check whether a tradesman is trustworthy?

Check ID, insurance and any registration on the official website. Then read independent reviews and ask for references. No single check is enough, so use them together.

What are the biggest red flags when hiring a tradesman?

Doorstep sales, big upfront payments, no written quote and pressure to decide fast. A tradesperson who cannot give an address or insurance proof is also a warning sign.

How many quotes should I get?

Get at least three for any job of real size. For a small repair, two may do. For a big project, compare more and visit finished work.

Are tradespeople who cost more better?

Not always. A higher price may reflect better insurance, better materials or more time, yet it can also reflect poor value. Compare what each quote includes, not only the total.

Good builders welcome questions, because clear answers prevent arguments later. Use this list at your first meeting and again before you sign. Write the answers down, since a promise only counts if it is in writing.

We do not vet or guarantee any builder, so these questions are your main protection. For a wider checklist, see our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust.

Who they are

1. Are you insured, and can I see the certificate?

A builder should have public liability insurance. Ask to see the certificate and check the dates. The cover should suit the size of your project, because a small policy will not cover a large mistake.

2. Can you give me references from recent jobs?

Ask for two or three past customers with similar work. Then call them, because a reference only helps if you use it. Ask whether the job finished on time, on budget and tidily.

3. Can I see finished work?

Photos help, but a visit is better. A builder who is proud of the work will usually arrange it.

4. Who will do the work?

Ask whether the builder uses employees or subcontractors. Both are normal, although you need to know who will be in your home, and who is in charge each day.

The quote and the money

5. Will you give me a detailed written quote?

An estimate is a guess, while a quote is a fixed price for defined work. Ask for the scope, the materials, the total and what it leaves out. A short quote on one page is a warning sign for a big job.

6. What could cost extra?

Hidden extras are the most common cause of disputes. Ask about provisional sums, which are placeholders for costs not yet known. Ask who pays if the builder finds a problem behind a wall.

7. What is the payment schedule?

Keep deposits small, and pay in stages tied to finished work. Never pay in full before the job starts. Ask for the schedule in writing, because it protects both sides.

8. How will you handle changes?

Changes happen on most projects. Agree that every change is priced and signed off before the work starts. This prevents surprises, because the final bill then matches what you approved.

Time and rules

9. When can you start, and how long will it take?

A busy builder may have a wait, which can be a good sign. Be wary of someone who can start tomorrow and finish quickly. Ask what happens if the job overruns.

10. Do you have the right registrations?

Membership of the Federation of Master Builders or TrustMark is common. Check it yourself on the scheme’s website. For gas and electrical work, ask who will do it and how they will certify it.

11. Who handles planning and building control?

Many projects need planning permission or Building Regulations approval. In Scotland you may need a building warrant. Ask who applies, who pays and who arranges the inspections.

12. Do you need a party wall agreement?

In England and Wales, building near a shared wall can fall under the Party Wall Act. Ask your builder, and speak to your neighbours early.

After the work

13. What guarantee do you offer?

Ask what the guarantee covers, how long it lasts and who stands behind it. Get it in writing, because a promise from a one-person firm is only as good as that firm.

14. Who is my contact each day?

Agree one person and one way to reach them. Good communication solves many problems before they grow.

15. How will you protect my home and clean up?

Ask about dust sheets, waste removal and working hours. A good builder has a clear answer and respects your home.

Builders by city

Compare quotes from builders in your city.

• Builders in Solihull
• Builders in London
• Builders in Cornwall
• Builders in Manchester
• Builders in Birmingham
• Builders in Bristol

Keep reading and compare quotes

Each city page covers prices, how to choose and how to get free quotes in that area. You can also start from our builders page.

Read Checkatrade vs MyBuilder vs Rated People to compare the quote sites, and how to read tradesperson reviews before you shortlist anyone.

Frequently asked questions

What should I ask a builder first?

Ask about insurance and references first. If those answers are weak, you can stop there. Then move on to the quote and the payment plan.

Should I pay a deposit?

A small deposit is normal, but a large one is a risk. Tie later payments to stages of finished work.

How do I compare builder quotes?

Compare the scope, the materials and the exclusions, not only the total. Read our article on builder quotes explained for a closer look.

Reviews are useful, but a star rating alone can mislead. To judge a tradesperson fairly, look at where the review appears, how many there are, how recent they are and what they say. This guide shows you how.

Reviews are one check among several. Always check ID, insurance and any registration too, using our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust.

Where the review appears

The first question is who controls the page. Reviews on a tradesperson’s own website are chosen by the tradesperson, so they tell you little. Reviews on an independent platform are harder to edit.

Some platforms confirm that a review comes from a real customer of a real job. That is useful, although the rules differ from site to site. Check how each site describes its process before you rely on it.

What the score really tells you

A score is a summary, and two numbers sit behind it. The first is the number of reviews, and the second is how recent they are.

A perfect score from three reviews says less than a good score from two hundred. A handful of reviews could come from friends or family. A long record is harder to fake, because it needs many customers over time.

Recent reviews matter because businesses change. Owners leave and staff change, so a run of five-star reviews from years ago may not describe the team today.

How to read the written reviews

Skip the stars and read the words. Specific reviews are more reliable than vague ones. A review that names the job, the date and what went well is more useful than “great service”.

Look for details on tidiness, timekeeping and price. Pay attention to how the tradesperson replies to a complaint. A calm, factual reply is a good sign, while an angry one is not.

Signs of fake or edited reviews

Be careful if several reviews use the same phrases, or if many arrive on the same day. Reviews that praise the business without describing any work are also suspect. Extreme scores with nothing in between can point to selective collection.

No single sign proves a review is fake. Treat a cluster of signs as a reason to check elsewhere. You can report a suspect review to the platform.

What to do next

Use reviews to build a shortlist, not to make the final choice. Ask for references and call them. Then compare written quotes, because price and scope matter as much as reputation.

If you want to start comparing, send us your job. We do not vet or review tradespeople, so the checks above still apply to every quote you receive.

Electricians by city

Compare quotes from electricians in your city.

• Electricians in Cardiff
• Electricians in Bristol
• Electricians in London
• Electricians in Glasgow
• Electricians in Edinburgh
• Electricians in Birmingham
• Electricians in Manchester
• Electricians in Leeds
• Electricians in Liverpool

Keep reading and compare quotes

Each city page covers prices, how to choose and how to get free quotes in that area. For other trades, start from our roofers page.

Read Checkatrade vs MyBuilder vs Rated People to see how each site handles reviews, and questions to ask a builder before you hire.

Frequently asked questions

Can I trust online reviews?

Mostly, if you read them carefully. Prefer independent sites, look for volume and recent dates, and read the words as well as the stars.

What is a verified review?

It usually means the platform confirmed that the reviewer was a real customer. The rules differ, so read how each site defines it.

Is a five-star rating always good?

Not on its own. A perfect score from a few reviews says little. A strong score across many recent jobs says more.

What should I do if a tradesperson has bad reviews?

Read what went wrong and how they replied. One bad review is normal, yet a pattern of the same complaint is a warning.

Replace your boiler when it is old, breaks down often, or costs nearly as much to mend as to replace. Most boilers are built to last roughly ten to twelve years. This guide lists seven signs, so you can decide calmly before it fails in winter.

Only a Gas Safe registered engineer may work on a gas boiler. We do not vet or guarantee the engineers who respond to our quote form, so check the Gas Safe Register yourself.

Seven signs it is time

1. It is over ten to twelve years old

Many manufacturers expect a boiler to last about ten to twelve years with regular servicing. After that, parts get harder to find and breakdowns become more likely. Age alone is not a reason to replace it, but it still raises the odds.

2. It breaks down more than once a year

One fault is normal wear. Repeated call-outs for different faults suggest the boiler is failing. The repair bills add up, yet they buy you no extra life.

3. A repair costs close to a new boiler

If a quote for repair is a large share of a new, fitted boiler, replacement is usually better value, because a new boiler comes with a warranty and modern efficiency. Ask the engineer for both prices in writing.

4. Your bills are rising

If you use heating the same way but your gas bills climb, an old boiler may be wasting fuel. Although savings differ, older non-condensing boilers are less efficient than modern condensing ones. Savings differ between homes, so ask for an estimate for yours.

5. It makes odd noises or smells

Banging, whistling or kettling can point to a failing part or limescale, since water and heat build up pressure. A smell of gas or any sign of carbon monoxide is an emergency. Leave the house and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

6. Parts are hard to get

For very old models, an engineer may struggle to find parts, because makers stop supplying them. That can turn a small repair into a long wait without heat.

7. The flame or system looks wrong

A yellow or orange flame instead of a steady blue one, or black marks around the boiler, needs an engineer at once. Do not use the boiler until an engineer checks it.

What a new boiler costs

Price guides from MyJobQuote and Fantastic Services suggest a like-for-like combi swap costs about £1,800 to £3,000 fitted, although some guides go higher. See our new boiler cost guide for the detail and the sources.

Grants rarely cover a like-for-like gas boiler, because the main schemes fund heat pumps. Our boiler grants guide explains what each scheme does fund.

How to get a fair price

Get at least three written quotes, and compare what each includes, because the cheapest may leave things out. Ask about the boiler make and warranty, the flue, controls and removal of the old unit. Then choose on value, not on price alone. If your boiler has failed, see emergency boiler repair.

Plumbers by city

Compare quotes from plumbers in your city.

• Plumbers in London
• Plumbers in Manchester
• Plumbers in Edinburgh
• Plumbers in Birmingham
• Plumbers in Glasgow
• Plumbers in Bristol
• Plumbers in Reading
• Plumbers in Liverpool

Keep reading and compare quotes

Each city page covers prices, how to choose and how to get free quotes in that area. You can also start from our plumbers page.

Before you choose an engineer, read how to find a tradesman you can trust and how to read tradesperson reviews.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a boiler last?

Most last around ten to twelve years with regular servicing. Some last longer, while some fail sooner.

Is it worth repairing an old boiler?

Sometimes. If the repair is small and the boiler is otherwise sound, repair is fine. If the boiler is old and the repair is large, replacement is often better.

Should I service my boiler every year?

Manufacturers usually advise an annual service, and it may be a condition of the warranty. A service also helps catch problems early.

Will a new boiler cut my bills?

A modern condensing boiler is more efficient than an old one, so many homes save fuel. The saving depends on your home and how you use heating.