Cavity wall insulation removal cost (2026)
Published UK guides put the cost of removing cavity wall insulation at roughly £21–£22 per m², or about £1,680–£2,520 for a whole house, with an average around £2,100 (Checkatrade, July 2026). London and the South East usually sit at the higher end, and the final figure depends on wall area, insulation type, access and how wet or compacted the fill is.
Guide prices
| Item | Low | High | Average (Checkatrade, Jul 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Removal per m² | £21 | £22 | £21.50 |
| Whole-house removal | £1,680 | £2,520 | £2,100 |
Source: Checkatrade. These are national ballpark figures, not a quote for your property.
What pushes the price up
- Urea-formaldehyde (UF) foam – specialist disposal typically adds around £500–£1,000 (Checkatrade).
- Access – scaffolding, narrow terraces, rendered elevations or awkward side returns.
- Making good – matching mortar, brick replacement, and any internal replastering after walls have dried.
- Refill or alternative insulation – often priced separately once the cavity is clear and dry.
Can I get it free or grant-funded?
Before you pay privately:
- Check whether a CIGA guarantee (or another guarantee named on your paperwork) still covers defects – remediation can be free of charge within the guarantee terms (CIGA).
- If the work was done under an energy scheme such as ECO, follow the installer / guarantee / TrustMark / Ofgem complaint routes (GOV.UK; Ofgem).
- Ask your energy supplier or council whether any current scheme helps with defective or unsuitable insulation – eligibility rules change (GOV.UK ECO).
More detail: CIGA claims and grants & ECO redress.
Get local quotes
A good quote should separate survey, extraction, disposal, making-good and any refill. Use our form to request up to 3 introductions.