A renovation is a major long-term investment, so it’s worth finding out first which home improvements add the most value in the UK. We’ve put together a few home renovation tips to increase the value of your property and make the most of your budget.

Home Improvements that Add the Most Value in the UK

Gaining space with a loft conversion is one of the best ways of adding value to your home, as is adding or renovating a bathroom suite. Equally important is improving energy efficiency and upgrading electrics and plumbing boosts comfort, safety and value. Additionally, don’t forget that an exterior house renovation can improve kerb appeal. Without further ado, let’s dive into the top home improvements that add the most value to your home.

1. Loft Conversions

Cheaper than other types of extension, creating an attractive, useful loft space like an office or extra bedroom—especially with an en-suite bathroom—can add 10-20% in value. If you have sufficient head height, rooflights or dormer windows, these are the cheapest and easiest way to let light in and they don’t usually require planning permission. Otherwise, you’ll need a more radical hip-to-gable, gable-to-gable, mansard or modular extension to achieve a liveable space. Consult a designer and builder to find out about planning permissions, structural requirements and how to make the most of the space.

2. Adding or Renovating a Bathroom Suite

Michael Caine famously said, “The secret to a happy marriage is separate bathrooms.” Following his recipe for success by adding a second one to your home will cost you but could add 5-9% in value. As a rule, you need two bathrooms per four bedrooms, and one on each floor where people sleep. Upstairs bathrooms are better than downstairs and adding a master bedroom en-suite is highly desirable. Beware of losing a bedroom, though.

If you can’t increase the number then renovate your existing bathroom. Upgrading to modern, attractive sanitaryware, lighting, tiling and colour schemes makes a huge difference, as does adding a mirror to create the illusion of more space. Make sure your home has at least one shower, ideally with popular modern features like rainfall effect or side jets. For another touch of luxury, underfloor bathroom heating feels incredible.

3. Electrics and Plumbing

Rewiring doesn’t add instant value but it’s essential for older properties, not least for peace of mind. If you’re selling, dodgy wiring could even hurt the value. This is a major, disruptive job so plan to do it before other home renovations. Take the opportunity to update lighting and add extra sockets or a bathroom extractor fan while you’re at it. All add value.

Nobody wants to live with an inefficient shower or a noisy old boiler and pipes, so upgrading plumbing is another must. A new boiler can add up to £8,000 in value, plus immediate benefits in improved performance and savings. If you’re on a budget, smaller upgrades like sleek, modern kitchen and bathroom taps or dual kitchen sinks are a great way to improve practicality and appearance.

4. Energy Efficiency

This isn’t top of the list for adding value but it will reduce your carbon footprint. You’ll also appreciate the savings in the long term. Lower cost options include adding loft or cavity wall insulation and draught-proofing. More costly improvements include external or internal wall insulation, double glazing, a high-performance boiler or switching to renewable energy.

5. Exterior House Renovation

Buyers or tenants often make their minds up before walking through the door, so give your house a facelift by ensuring brickwork, paintwork, garden walls, paths and gates are all looking their best. Consider changing old front doors and windows for higher security models to improve the appearance and add value. Don’t waste money on landscaping as this doesn’t add value. Keeping the front garden neat and tidy never hurts, though.

Talk to your home renovation planner to find out which home renovations add the most value in the UK and what you could do with your house. Remember it’s an investment, so always safeguard the value with a high-quality renovation.