Applying
How affordability checks work
Income verification, outgoings analysis, open banking data — what lenders actually assess and what to do if you're turned down.
6 min read → Home & property
Home improvement
loan
Whether it's a long-overdue kitchen update or emergency structural work, a Cash Train short-term loan lets you spread the cost into predictable monthly payments instead of one painful lump sum.
Apply now →Unregulated lender • Apply online — decision in minutes
Typical project costs
What do common home projects cost?
Kitchen update
£1,000–£3,500
New appliances, worktops, or partial refits. A full kitchen replacement starts at £5k+ — a loan works well for targeted upgrades.
Bathroom refresh
£800–£2,500
New suite, tiling, or full refit. Labour is the main cost variable — London and South East carry a significant premium.
Garden project
£500–£2,000
Landscaping, decking, fencing, or a summer house base. Costs rise sharply with the size of the garden and materials chosen.
Structural repairs
£500–£3,000
Damp treatment, roof tiles, pointing repointing, or foundation work. Costs vary enormously by severity and access.
Windows & doors
£400–£1,800
Single-window replacement to a full set. UPVC is cheaper than aluminium or wood; double vs triple glazing is the main cost driver.
Rewiring / plumbing
£600–£2,500
Partial rewiring, consumer unit upgrade, or pipe replacement. Always get a qualified professional and certify the work.
Costs are UK market estimates. Always get at least two written quotes. London and South East typically run 20–40% above national averages.
Match the loan to the project
How much do you need?
Quick
£100–£500
1–3 months
A small essential repair — a broken fence, a single window, or materials for a DIY weekend job.
Apply now →Flex
£500–£2,000
3–12 months
Bathroom refresh, garden project, or targeted kitchen upgrade. Comfortable monthly repayments.
Apply now →Plus
£2,000–£5,000
6–24 months
Significant room refit or structural work. Spread the cost over 6–24 months without draining savings.
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Getting the most from your project
Before you start
1
Get 3 written quotes
For anything involving labour, get at least 3 itemised written quotes. Variation between traders can be 40–60% for identical work.
2
Check planning requirements
Some projects (extensions, loft conversions, outbuildings) require planning permission. Check with your local council before hiring anyone.
3
Factor in contingency
Budget at least 10–15% over your quote for materials variations, hidden structural issues, or scope creep.
4
Verify tradespeople credentials
For electrical and gas work, check the trader is NICEIC or Gas Safe registered. Check reviews on Checkatrade or Trustmark.
Common questions
Home improvement loan FAQs
A short-term personal loan is faster, requires no property valuation, and doesn't risk your home. Remortgaging suits larger projects (£10k+) with longer repayment windows. For £500–£5,000, a personal loan is usually simpler and quicker.
Your loan lands in your bank account. You then pay tradespeople by bank transfer, card, or cheque — however they prefer. There are no restrictions on who or how you pay.
You can apply for an additional loan, or top up your existing loan (subject to affordability and outstanding balance). Always include a 10–15% contingency in your initial budget to avoid this.
No. Loan eligibility is based on your income, outgoings, credit history, and affordability — not the property you live in or own. The renovation itself has no bearing on your application.
Ready to start your project?
Apply online — get a fast decision with fixed monthly payments.
Apply now →Indicative rates only. Subject to status and individual affordability assessment. 18+ UK residents only.