Free home improvement tools for UK homeowners
Answer any home improvement question — planning permission, tradesman rates, grants, materials — in under 90 seconds. Free, forever.
Our tools
Permit & Planning Checker
Find out instantly if your project needs planning permission or falls under permitted development rights.
Do I need planning permission? →
Tradesman Rate Benchmarker
Check current day rates for any trade in your region. Know what a fair price looks like before you hire.
What should I pay? →
Quote Normaliser
Compare 2–4 quotes on a like-for-like basis. Unmask hidden costs and find the genuinely best value.
Are my quotes comparable? →
Material Estimator
Calculate tiles, timber, paint, or carpet quantities with waste allowances. With links to buy.
How much do I need? →
Grant Eligibility Checker
Find out which UK government grants you qualify for — ECO4, Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and more.
What grants can I get? →
Energy Upgrade Planner
Get a prioritised roadmap to improve your EPC rating, with costs, savings, and available grants.
How do I improve my EPC? →
DIY vs Hire Helper
Honest, safety-aware advice on whether you can DIY a job or need a professional.
Can I do this myself? →
Need a tradesperson? Get 3 free quotes.
After using any tool, you can request quotes from up to 3 vetted local tradespeople — no commitment, no cost.
7
Free tools
100%
No account needed
GOV.UK
Sourced data
GDPR
Compliant
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need planning permission for a rear extension?
- Most single-storey rear extensions under 3m (semi/terrace) or 4m (detached) fall under permitted development rights — but there are conditions. Use our Permit Checker for your specific situation.
- What is the average day rate for an electrician in London?
- Electrician day rates in London typically range from £280–£400 per day. Check our Rate Benchmarker for your specific trade and region.
- Who qualifies for ECO4?
- Households on qualifying benefits or low income (under £31k) with an EPC rating of D–G. Use our Grant Checker for a full eligibility assessment.
- Is UKHUB free to use?
- Yes. All seven tools are completely free with no account required.
- Do I need to create an account?
- No. UKHUB has no accounts, no login, and no subscriptions.
- What are permitted development rights?
- Permitted development rights allow certain home improvements without full planning permission. Our Permit Checker assesses whether your specific project qualifies.
- How do I get 3 free quotes?
- After using any tool, you can submit your postcode and trade type. We share your details with up to 3 vetted local tradespeople at no cost to you.
- What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
- The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers grants of up to £7,500 towards a heat pump. Use our Grant Checker to see if you qualify.
- What is Part P of the Building Regulations?
- Part P requires certain electrical work to be carried out or approved by a registered electrician. Our DIY vs Hire tool will flag when it applies.
- How accurate is the information?
- Tools are powered by Claude AI and grounded in current UK regulations. We include a confidence level and sources with every result. Always verify important decisions with a professional.