Home renovation spending in the UK has surged, with homeowners investing a median of £21,440 in 2024 – a 26% year-on-year increase, according to the newly released 2025 Houzz & Home Study. The annual report, based on responses from over 1,000 UK homeowners, was published by Houzz, the leading platform for home renovation and design.
This sharp rise is closely tied to the nation’s ageing housing stock, with 53% of renovators living in homes built before 1940. As a result, repairs and system upgrades continue to be a significant focus. In 2024, 39% carried out essential maintenance, while upgrades to heating systems (43%), plumbing systems (42%), and electrical systems (39%) were widespread.
“While rising costs for goods and services are influencing renovation spend, activity remains stable,” said Marine Sargsyan, Houzz staff economist. “With almost half of homeowners planning renovations, it suggests that the need to update ageing housing stock continues to fuel demand for home improvements.”
Renovation plans persist into 2025
Looking ahead, homeowners remain committed to improving their homes. Sixty per cent plan to decorate and 49% intend to renovate in 2025, consistent with last year’s figures.
The trend toward long-term homeownership continues, with 61% of renovators expecting to stay in their homes for over 11 years. Many cite pent-up demand and now having the time or financial means as key motivations (36% and 33%, respectively).
Pros are in high demand
The professional renovation market remains robust, with 94% of homeowners hiring specialists to undertake their projects. Electricians (59%) and plumbers (56%) topped the list, while demand for cabinetry pros rose to 27% — up eight percentage points on 2023. Hiring also grew for painters (41%), roofers (31%) and architects (25%).
Homeowners are turning to builders, interior designers, and design-build firms, many of whom use Houzz Pro for project management and client collaboration.
Funding renovations
Most homeowners continued to finance their projects with savings (83%), followed by proceeds from a home sale (20%) and credit cards (13%). The use of gifts or inheritance rose slightly (from 9% to 12% in 2023), while credit card use dropped from 18% to 13%.
Entrances and outdoor upgrades on the rise
Interest in entrances has grown, with 32% decorating their entryways, 24% upgrading them, and 7% extending them – all figures higher than those from 2023. Outdoor spaces were another key area of focus, with 50% of respondents improving their exteriors, including flower beds (29%), lighting (23%), sheds (17%), and security systems (16%).
Although still niche, built-in outdoor kitchens saw a slight increase in popularity, rising to 3% of outdoor projects.