Use net room area and a separate waste allowance
Measure each room at its widest points and break irregular shapes into rectangles. Subtract areas that will genuinely remain uncovered, then add cutting waste separately rather than counting it twice.
What belongs in the budget
Subfloor levelling, moisture checks, underlay, thresholds, trims, door trimming and disposal.
How the calculation works
Materials = area × material rate × (1 + waste percentage). Labour = area × labour rate. Add extras, apply the contingency to that subtotal, then apply the VAT rate. The result is a scenario based on your inputs, not a supplier quotation.
Compare the same scope
Send each contractor the same measurements and written description. Ask for a fixed inclusion list, exclusions, waste arrangements, payment milestones and the treatment of unexpected work. Do not compare only the headline total.
Common questions
Are these average UK prices?
No. Default rates are illustrative inputs so you can explore a budget. Replace them with current written quotations.
Does my location change the result?
No automatic regional uplift is applied. Local access, travel and supplier costs belong in the rates you enter.
Sources & methodology
This page uses original budgeting guidance and transparent arithmetic. Example prices are chosen illustrations, not a survey of UK market prices. Replace them with written quotations.
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