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Home improvements guide

Looking to make the most of your home? Whatever you want to do, we can help with our tips, tools and guides.

Online mortgages are provided by NatWest which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Royal Bank of Scotland may receive a fee based on a percentage of any mortgage entered into for this referral. NatWest and Royal Bank of Scotland mortgages are available to over 18s. Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Where to start?

Energy saving improvements Open in new window
Design your space Open in new window
Cost and value Open in new window
Paying for it Open in new window
Planning permission Open in new window
Building regulations Open in new window

Find inspiration

Before starting any work, take some time to explore ideas and think about what's most important to you.

Consider your budget, how you'll use the space and whether the work could add value to your property.

Saving examples you like can help you create a clear vision before getting quotes.

When you're ready to contact tradespeople, make sure you know how to spot the warning signs of a scam.

Energy-saving home improvements

Whether you're planning small changes or bigger projects, NatWest's Home Energy Hub can help you reduce energy use, improve your home's energy performance and explore what support may be available.

Get practical tips, discover energy-saving improvements and explore tools to help make your home warmer and more efficient.

NatWest Home Energy Hub Open in new window

Get designing

Once you've decided what you'd like to change, it's time to turn your ideas into a plan.

Sketch out your layout, compare options and think about how you'll use the space day to day. Spending time planning now can help you avoid costly changes later and make it easier to explain your ideas to builders and contractors.

Before accepting quotes or agreeing to work, take time to check credentials, reviews and recommendations.

Work out the cost and value

Understanding what your project is likely to cost can help you decide what's affordable and plan your budget with confidence.

Use our budget calculator to see how much you could afford to pay for improvements.

You may also want to think about whether the work could increase your property's value, although this can vary depending on the type of work and your local housing market.

Adding value to your home Open in new window

Paying for home improvements

The best way to pay for home improvements will depend on the type of work you're planning, how much it's likely to cost and how soon you need the money.

If you're planning ahead, saving could help you spread the cost. For larger projects, you may want to explore borrowing options.

Before paying deposits or agreeing to work, it's worth understanding how to spot common tradesperson scams.

Set a savings goal

If you'd like to save towards your home improvement project, you can set a savings goal linked to your savings account and track your progress.

Set up your savings goal Open in new window

Borrowing to pay for improvements

Take a look at the options available if you're considering borrowing money to help pay for home improvements. Over 18's only.

Compare your borrowing options Open in new window

Borrowing more on your mortgage

If you're an existing mortgage customer, you may be able to borrow more on your mortgage for eligible home improvements.

Read our guide Open in new window

Planning permission

Some home improvements need planning permission before work can begin.

 

It's worth checking the rules before starting your project, as you may also need to comply with building regulations. You can find guidance on the governments planning permission web page.

 

If you're hiring a builder or contractor, learn how to spot the warning signs of a tradesperson scam.

"" Why do I need it?

Why do you need planning permission?

  • It helps local authorities manage how land and buildings are used.
  • It considers the impact on neighbouring properties and the local environment.
  • It helps make sure developments are suitable for the local area.
  • It can help prevent issues that could delay your project later.
Information Message

"" How do I get it?

How do I get planning permission?

  • Apply through your local planning authority.
  • Provide details of the work you'd like to carry out.
  • Your application may be reviewed by planning officers and, in some cases, local residents may be able to comment.
  • You'll receive a decision once the review process has been completed.
Information Message

What are building regulations?

Building regulations set standards for the design and construction of buildings to help keep them safe, healthy and energy efficient.

You may need to follow building regulations when carrying out certain types of home improvements, including structural alterations, electrical work and extensions.

Building regulations are different from planning permission, and some projects may need both.

You can find more information on the government building regulation page or by contacting your local authority.

Stay safe from tradesperson scams

Don't let a scam turn your dream home into a nightmare

Most tradespeople are genuine, but scammers sometimes pose as builders or contractor. They'll ask for an upfront payment in full and then disappear without doing any work or leave the job partly complete.

Learn how to spot the warning signs and protect yourself from common tradesperson scams. 

Tradesperson scams guide Open in new window