External Wall Insulation Removal Cost Guide 2024
Complete cost breakdown for removing failed external wall insulation (EWI). Understand what you'll pay based on property size, location, and extent of damage. Get accurate quotes from vetted contractors.
Quick Cost Summary
Complete Cost Breakdown
External wall insulation removal is a major undertaking involving multiple trades and stages. Here's a detailed breakdown of all costs involved:
1. Assessment and Surveying (£300 - £800)
Professional surveys are essential for insurance claims and determining the full extent of damage. Many homeowners need multiple surveys.
2. Scaffolding and Access (£1,500 - £4,000)
Scaffolding costs vary by region and property height. London and South East typically 20-30% higher than national average.
3. EWI Removal Labour (£4,000 - £10,000)
This is the main cost component. EWI removal is labor-intensive and requires specialist skills to avoid further damage to the underlying wall structure.
4. Waste Disposal and Skip Hire (£600 - £1,500)
5. Wall Repair and Restoration (£2,000 - £8,000)
Once EWI is removed, underlying walls often require repair work, especially if moisture damage has occurred.
6. Decorative Finishing (£1,500 - £5,000)
Example Cost Calculations
Example 1: Small Semi-Detached House
Example 2: Detached House with Moderate Damage
Example 3: Large Detached with Severe Damage
Factors That Affect EWI Removal Cost
1. Property Size and Wall Area
Costs scale with the amount of wall surface requiring treatment. Measure or estimate your external wall area (height × perimeter, minus windows/doors) to get accurate quotes.
2. Type of EWI System Installed
Most common ECO4/GBIS system. Relatively straightforward removal.
Heavier render layers require more labor. More dust generation.
Extensive mechanical fixings penetrate brickwork. Removal causes more damage.
3. Extent of Underlying Damage
Properties where moisture has penetrated and damaged brickwork, mortar, or cavity wall ties will require extensive remediation beyond simple removal. This can add 30-50% to costs.
4. Access and Property Characteristics
Cost-Increasing Factors
- Three-story or taller buildings
- Limited access for vehicles/equipment
- Listed building or conservation area
- Complex architectural details
- Urban locations (higher labor rates)
Cost-Reducing Factors
- Single or two-story property
- Good vehicle access for equipment
- Simple rectangular design
- Minimal damage to underlying walls
- Rural or lower-cost regions
5. Regional Price Variations
Regional Cost Multipliers (vs National Average)
Payment and Financing Options
1. Insurance Claims
If you have buildings insurance or legal expenses insurance, check whether EWI removal and remediation are covered. Some policies cover "sudden and unforeseen damage" which may apply if damp/mould appeared unexpectedly.
2. Compensation Claims
Many homeowners pursue compensation from the original installer, Trustmark, or the government scheme (ECO4/GBIS). Successful claims can cover 70-100% of removal and remediation costs.
3. Payment Plans from Contractors
Some specialist EWI removal contractors offer payment plans or staging options:
- Deposit on booking: 10-20% to secure dates
- Progress payments: 30% on scaffolding, 40% on removal completion, 30% on finishing
- Deferred payment: Wait for compensation claim settlement (higher fees apply)
4. Home Improvement Loans
If you cannot claim through insurance or compensation, consider:
- Home improvement loans (unsecured, typically £5,000-£25,000)
- Remortgaging or secured loans against property equity
- Local authority assistance schemes (check with your council)
- Credit unions for lower-interest borrowing options
What's Included vs Extra Costs
Typically Included in Quoted Price
- All labour for removal and basic wall repair
- Scaffolding hire for agreed duration
- Waste disposal (non-hazardous)
- Materials for standard wall finishing
- Public liability insurance during works
Often Charged as Extras
- Pre-work surveys and assessments
- Asbestos testing and removal
- Structural repairs beyond cosmetic work
- Damp-proof treatments and membranes
- Premium finishing options (lime render, specialist paints)
- Scaffolding extensions beyond agreed duration
- Making good internal walls (plaster, decoration)
How to Get Accurate Quotes
Information to Provide
When requesting EWI removal quotes, provide contractors with:
- 1.Property details: Type, number of stories, approximate wall area or dimensions
- 2.EWI type: If known - polystyrene/mineral wool/other, thickness, render type
- 3.Installation date: When EWI was installed and under which scheme
- 4.Current problems: Damp, mould, cracking - with photos if possible
- 5.Access details: Location, parking, any access restrictions
- 6.Desired finish: Standard render/paint, brick restoration, or other preferences
Questions to Ask Contractors
Experience & Qualifications
- •How many EWI removal projects have you completed?
- •Do you have specific EWI remediation accreditations?
- •Can you provide references from recent similar projects?
- •What insurance do you carry (public liability, professional indemnity)?
Scope & Process
- •Exactly what's included in your quoted price?
- •How long will the project take from start to finish?
- •What happens if you discover additional damage during removal?
- •Do you provide a guarantee/warranty on your remediation work?
Get Free EWI Removal Quotes
We connect homeowners with vetted EWI removal specialists who understand the complexities of failed government scheme installations. Get multiple quotes, compare prices, and choose the right contractor for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove EWI myself to save money?
Not recommended. EWI removal requires specialized equipment, safety measures (working at height), proper waste disposal, and knowledge of underlying wall structures. DIY removal often causes additional damage and voids any potential insurance/warranty claims.
How long does EWI removal take?
Typical timescales: Small semi-detached (2-3 weeks), Detached house (3-5 weeks), Large detached (5-8 weeks). Weather and unexpected damage can extend timelines.
Do I need planning permission to remove EWI?
Usually no, as you're returning the property to its original state. However, if you're in a conservation area or have a listed building, consult your local planning authority first.
Will removing EWI affect my EPC rating?
Yes, your EPC rating will likely decrease. However, the benefits of eliminating damp/mould problems typically outweigh EPC concerns. You can improve energy efficiency through alternative methods (loft insulation, double glazing, etc.) without the risks of EWI.