Consumers Focused On Home Improvements Over Moving

The UK’s DIY sector is set for a busy year as millions of consumers prepare to roll up their sleeves and tackle home improvement projects themselves.

New research reveals that over half of UK consumers (54%) plan to invest in home and garden improvements in the next 12 months. Among them, a growing number are choosing the do-it-yourself route, with 17% planning to take on DIY home projects and a further 17% planning DIY garden projects. With ongoing cost-of-living pressures and uncertainty in the housing market causing one in five to say moving is financially unfeasible, consumers are instead turning to DIY as a practical, money-saving strategy to enhance their living spaces.

Decorating remains the most popular planned improvement, with 31% of people saying they intend to decorate at least one room. While this is a drop from 41% in 2023, the DIY market continues to see steady demand as many consumers take on these tasks themselves. When it comes to the garden, there is increasing interest in hard landscaping, outdoor seating and practical enhancements to extend living space into the outdoors.

Affordability remains the top driver behind home improvement decisions, according to the research, which was carried out by construction PR agency Unhooked Communications as part of the Homes Unhooked 2025-2026 report. Consumers are primarily motivated by cost and value, followed by quality and longevity, and then style and appearance. Emotional and practical factors are closely linked to these choices, with people aiming to enhance their comfort and wellbeing, optimise space, and update the look and feel of their homes. 

In addition to the rise in DIY activity, 17% of consumers plan to purchase tools to help them complete their projects. This presents a strong opportunity for DIY retailers, brands and suppliers to provide not only the right products, but also the guidance and inspiration needed to support today’s self-sufficient homeowner. 

Consumers are also actively researching their DIY purchases and projects across multiple channels. Search engines, YouTube and retailers are the top sources of information and advice, particularly for those looking for tutorials and real-life case studies. Reputation plays a key role in buying decisions, with 35% of people saying they trust businesses with positive reviews and recommendations. Nearly half (48%) want to support local businesses, and more than a third (36%) prefer to speak to an expert before committing to a purchase. 

“These insights show just how powerful it is for DIY brands to invest in the right PR and marketing,” said Claire Gamble, Managing Director of Unhooked Communications. 

“Consumers are actively searching for inspiration, how-to content and trusted advice online, so being visible in the places they turn to, whether it’s online searches, social media, reputable media outlets or expert guides, is essential. Brands that provide helpful, credible content and build a strong reputation will win trust and grow their share of this cost-conscious, hands-on market.” 

The research surveyed 2,001 UK adults. 

The full Homes Unhooked 2025-2026 report is available to download now at: weareunhooked.com/homes-unhooked-2025/

Source : Unhooked Communications

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