A new carpet feels like a little bit of indulgence. Soft and warm underfoot, carpet is ideal for bedrooms and anywhere else you want a little bit of comfort. In this guide, we’ll go through the average carpet fitting costs in the UK, as well as in your local area.

How much does carpet fitting cost?

In the UK, carpet fitting typically costs £8.50 per square metre, depending on factors like the type of carpet and your location. For an average-sized living room (around 17 m²), expect to pay between £120-£150 for fitting. 

This price is only for fitting and doesn’t include the cost of the carpet itself, underlay, or any other additional services. Take a look at the breakdown of carpet fitting costs below:

Factors that affect the cost of carpet fitting

• Room size: Larger rooms require more labour and materials, increasing the overall cost. However, you may find that the cost per m2 goes down as it becomes more efficient to fit a larger room.
• Type of carpet: Heavier or thicker carpets, such as wool or luxury options, may be more difficult to fit and may incur higher fitting costs.
• Removal of old carpet: Many fitters charge extra to remove and dispose of existing carpet, as they have to pay to dispose of it for you.
• Additional services: Extra services like laying underlay and grippers or door trimming can also increase the cost.
• Your location: Carpet fitting costs vary by region, with fitters in London and the south east generally charging higher rates than those in other areas. 

At HaMuch, our database of hourly and daily rates of flooring specialists across the UK helps to give you an idea of how much carpet fitting will cost in your local area. Take a look at our carpet fitting table and find your nearest town or city to get a more accurate estimate of how much it will cost to fit carpet in your home.

Should you pay a carpet fitter upfront?

Some carpet fitters may ask you for a deposit if they are supplying your carpet and underlay, but you shouldn’t have to pay 100% upfront. This allows you to inspect the work before payment, ensuring you’re satisfied with the results. Always clarify payment terms before work begins and ensure you have a written agreement in place.

Advantages and disadvantages of carpet

Can’t decide whether you want new carpet or another type of flooring? There are advantages and disadvantages of carpet, which we’ve detailed below:

Do you need underlay?

It’s always recommended to get underlay under your carpets as it adds comfort, improves insulation, and extends the lifespan of the carpet. It also provides extra support and cushioning, which can make walking on the carpet more comfortable. 

While it can seem like an unnecessary cost because you won’t even see it, a high-quality underlay can make an average carpet seem much more luxurious. Underlay typically costs between £8 and £20 per square metre, depending on its quality and thickness.

How long does it take to fit carpet?

How long it takes to fit carpet depends on the room size and any additional work required. For a standard 17m² room, it typically takes a professional fitter about 2-3 hours. Larger or more complex spaces, or installations involving underlay or grippers, may take longer. For an entire house, carpet fitting may take a full day or longer.

Is it cheaper to fit carpet yourself?

On the face of it, it will always be cheaper to fit carpet yourself as you will save on labour costs. However, mistakes can be costly. Carpet fitting is a skill, and specialists work hard to achieve a professional finish. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could end up with unsightly seams or even damage to the carpet, which could cost more to fix than it would have cost for you to get the entire carpet fitted professionally in the first place.

How often should carpet be replaced?

Carpet generally needs replacing every 5-15 years, depending on its quality, usage and location. High-traffic areas, such as hallways and living rooms, may need replacement sooner due to wear and tear. 

Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the lifespan, but eventually, signs like matting, visible stains and a worn appearance indicate it’s time to consider a replacement.

How to reduce the cost of carpet fitting

If you want to reduce the cost of your carpet fitting without doing it yourself, there are some things you can do to make it cheaper:

Measure accurately: Before purchasing the carpet, measure your rooms accurately to avoid buying excess material. Many carpet suppliers provide measuring services, often for free, to help ensure you only purchase what you need.

Buy in sales or clearance: Look out for sales or clearance deals on carpets, as this can significantly reduce the cost. Many retailers offer discounts on end-of-line or discontinued styles, which can still look great and fit your space.

Opt for affordable carpet types: Some types of carpet are less expensive than others. For example, synthetic options like polypropylene are typically more budget-friendly than wool, while still being durable and stain-resistant.

Do basic preparations yourself: You can save on labour costs by removing the old carpet and underlay yourself before the fitter arrives. Also, moving furniture out of the room can make the process quicker and easier for the fitter.

Source your own underlay and accessories: Buying underlay, grippers and adhesives separately may allow you to find cheaper options than those provided by your fitter. However, ensure the underlay you choose is compatible with your carpet.

Bundle fitting costs with multiple rooms: If you’re carpeting several rooms, try to have them fitted at the same time. Fitters often offer discounts for larger jobs, so this can be more cost-effective than booking each room separately.

Get multiple quotes: Prices can vary significantly between carpet fitters, so obtaining quotes from several professionals can help you find a competitive rate. Always check references and reviews to ensure quality as well as affordability.

With HaMuch, you can get a range of quotes from reliable flooring specialists in your area. Post your job now and we’ll put you in touch with carpet fitters who are ready to help.

Estimates for common flooring specialist jobs;

Rates for other trades