UK homeowners to spend £1,179 on improvements

UK homeowners and renters are planning to spend an average of £1,179 on home improvements once restrictions are lifted, research from online trade directory Checkatrade found.

Over half (53%) of people have noticed more things wrong with their home while in lockdown than ever before.

Common causes for improvement include a general desire for new décor (40%), a craving for more space (28%), a longing for more storage (27%) and a need to get rid of ugly wallpaper (16%).

Mike Fairman, chief executive at Checkatrade, said: “The phrase ‘the home is where the heart is’ has never been truer but living looking at the same four walls for weeks on end is enough to make anyone crave a refresh or refurb.

“With money tighter than ever though, it’s important that it’s spent wisely on a properly qualified and checked tradesperson.

“Checkatrade does at least 12 checks on every single member, meaning our trade experts are second to none when it comes to planning your next big or small home project.”

During lockdown people have already been getting creative with their spaces, as two in five (39%) have been busy tailoring both interior and exterior areas to match their needs.