Fill in the dimensions for your job - length, width, height, or whatever fields the calculator asks for. All measurements are in metres and millimetres unless stated. Want a head start? Try a Quick Start Project Kit - pre-built job templates that load common specs in one click.
2
Adjust the waste allowance
Most calculators include a waste percentage field. The default is a recommended starting point - increase it for complex cuts or awkward layouts, reduce it for simple runs.
3
Click Calculate
Your material quantities appear instantly. Results show packs, bags, or units needed, plus the total area or volume for reference.
4
Add UK market prices (optional)
Click Get UK Market Prices if the option appears. This loads current trade rates and gives you a cost estimate alongside your quantities. You can edit any of the prices before calculating if your own rates differ.
5
Save to a project
Click Save to Project to store these results. You can create a new project or add the line to an existing one. You can save one project for free, or upgrade to a Pro account to store as many as you need with cloud backup and access across all your devices.
6
Print or export
Use the Print or Export CSV buttons to save your results. The print layout is clean and formatted for site use or handing to a client.
Your saved projects are under My Projects in the menu. Each project collects all your calculator results in one place - handy for pricing up a full job. You can freely amend any part of a project at any point. With a Pro account you can also send polished quotes to clients or material specs direct to subcontractors.
Interactive Checklist
Home Survey Checklist
Step-by-step checklists for buyers, self-builders and renovators. Tick items off as you go and print your completed list.
Confirm the mortgage valuation is not a surveyYour lender's valuation does not check the condition of the property.
Decide which RICS level is appropriate (Level 1, 2 or 3)Use our guide at /home-surveys/ if unsure.
Obtain at least two independent surveyor quotesPrices vary significantly between firms and regions.
Check the surveyor holds RICS accreditationLook for AssocRICS, MRICS or FRICS after their name.
Note any specific concerns to flag to the surveyorCracks, damp patches, sagging ceilings, extensions, roof condition.
Confirm the survey includes a drainage check or book separatelyCCTV drainage surveys are not usually included in a standard RICS survey.
Your Own Viewing Checks
0/8
Do these yourself on your pre-survey viewing.
Check walls and ceilings for cracks - note width, direction and locationDiagonal cracks at window and door corners may indicate movement.
Look for damp patches, tide marks or discolouration on wallsEspecially at ground level, around chimneys and in corners.
Check window frames and sills for rot, gaps or failed sealsMisted double-glazing indicates failed units.
Inspect the roof from outside - missing tiles, sagging ridgeline, blocked gutters
Check loft access - look for water stains, daylight gaps, insulation condition
Note any extensions or alterations - ask about building regs approval and planning permission
Test all taps and flush toilets - check water pressure and drainage speed
Check the boiler age, service history and whether there is a current Gas Safe certificate
After the Survey Report
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What to do once your report lands.
Read the entire report - including the limitations sectionDo not just skip to the summary or ratings.
List all Condition Rating 3 (urgent) items and get repair quotesThese are the items with the most serious risk or requiring immediate action.
Follow up any recommended specialist investigations (damp, drainage, structural)
Discuss the findings with your solicitor before exchange
Use repair estimates to renegotiate the purchase price if appropriate
Check whether indemnity insurance may be needed for missing building regs or planning consents
Decide whether to proceed, renegotiate or withdraw before exchange of contracts
Plot Due Diligence
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Before committing to a self build plot.
Commission a topographic survey before appointing an architectGround levels, trees, boundaries and services must all be mapped accurately.
Confirm boundaries with Land Registry title plan and commission a boundary survey if any doubt
Check for Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and Conservation Area restrictions
Investigate ground conditions - contaminated land searches and ground investigation reportEspecially on brownfield sites or where unusual soils are suspected.
Check access rights and whether a new dropped kerb or road adoption agreement is needed
Planning & Design Stage
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Before submitting a planning application.
Obtain pre-application planning advice from the Local Planning Authority
Review the topographic survey with your architect before agreeing a design brief
Check whether an ecological survey is required (bats, newts, protected species)
Appoint a structural engineer early to advise on foundation type and structural design
Confirm party wall requirements for any shared boundary work
Register with the Self Build Register for your local authority (required to access some funding)
Before You Start
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Due diligence before committing to a renovation or extension project.
Commission a Level 3 Building Survey if structural work is plannedEssential before opening up walls, removing chimney breasts or adding structural openings.
Serve party wall notice if work affects a shared wall or boundaryRequired at least 2 months before work begins for party wall work, 1 month for excavations.
Check whether planning permission is required - permitted development rights do not cover all works
Submit a Building Regulations application before starting structural or drainage workUse our Building Regulations Checker for guidance on what requires approval.
Get a damp and timber survey if any signs of moisture or rot are present
Check for asbestos in any property built before 2000 - commission a survey before any demolition
Arrange a topographic survey if the extension involves changes to levels or drainage routes
During the Works
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Key checks while the build is underway.
Book Building Control inspections at required stages (foundations, DPC, structural frame, etc.)
Photograph all structural and service work before it is concealed
Keep a site diary and retain all delivery notes, warranties and certification
Confirm any design changes in writing with your contractor before proceeding
Check contractor insurance (public liability and employer's liability) is current throughout the project
At Completion
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Before final sign-off and payment.
Obtain the Building Regulations Completion Certificate from Building Control
Collect all warranties, guarantees and instruction manuals for installed products and systems
Obtain Gas Safe and Part P electrical certificates for relevant works
Update your buildings insurance provider with details of the work carried out
Retain copies of all documents - planning consent, Building Regs, warranties - for future sale
Estimate Your Survey Cost
Enter your property type, size and survey level for a ballpark figure.
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