Tim Phillips
Tim Phillips is an experienced senior quantity surveyor and estimator and has worked in the construction industry for over 35 years. He has worked on many varied projects in this time, for corporates, public bodies and private residential clients, managing multi-million budgets.
For the past 13 years, Tim has worked on a freelance basis, whilst managing his rental property portfolio. He has extensive experience of undertaking his own full-scale house renovations. He is also a speaker and expert at the Homebuilding & Renovating Shows.
Latest articles by Tim Phillips

How much does internal plastering cost? Our expert explains all the factors when budgeting for this finish
By Tim Phillips published
It’s a key element when it comes to renovation, extension and self-build projects, so here is everything you need to know when budgeting for plastering walls and ceilings

How much does a new driveway cost? We explain how to budget for a brand new entrance
By Tim Phillips last updated
Quantity surveyor, Tim Phillips explains how much to set aside for driveway costs including materials, installation prices and the hidden costs you might miss

How much does a porch cost? We breakdown the various elements to help you keep your budget on track
By Tim Phillips published
Discover how much to budget for porch costs whether you're upgrading an existing one or adding a new porch to your home

Calculating your loft conversion costs? Here's how to keep a lid on them when extending upwards
By Tim Phillips, Sarah Harley last updated
Loft conversion costs can vary depending on how you choose to extend, but how do the costs breakdown and what's it important to include? Experts suggest this is how much to set aside and how to stay on track

How much does insulation cost? What to budget for when trying to improve your home's energy efficiency
By Tim Phillips published
Want to warm up your home and improve its energy efficiency? Our expert advises on insulation costs so you can budget for the necessary work

Garage conversion costs: How much do you need to turn your garage into a habitable space?
By Tim Phillips, Sarah Harley last updated
While garage conversion costs will vary depending on the nature of your project, quantity surveyor, Tim Phillips, delves into the details to help you establish if your budget will meet your requirements

What do new windows cost during a build? What to budget for uPVC, timber and aluminium glazing
By Tim Phillips last updated
Whether you’re self-building or renovating, glazing is likely to account for a significant percentage of your costs. Our expert reveals what you should budget for different types of windows and the cost factors to consider

How much will a kitchen extension cost? Here's how to work out your budget when planning your new space
By Sarah Harley, Natasha Brinsmead, Tim Phillips last updated
Although a number of factors will influence your final kitchen extension costs, our expert guide helps you work out how much to set aside

How much does an extension cost in 2025? Work out what budget you'll need with our handy guide
By Michael Holmes last updated
Whether you want to add a single or double storey, a side extension or a conservatory, get the lowdown on what an extension costs in 2025

How much does a side extension cost? A quantity surveyor lays it out
By Tim Phillips published
If you’re looking to add more space to your home, our expert reveals what you should budget for when building out to the side

How much can you expect to pay for new bathroom costs in 2025?
By Tim Phillips, Sarah Harley last updated
Budgeting for new bathroom costs includes lots of different elements. We take an expert look at how much you can expect to pay along with tips for saving too

How much does underpinning cost? A quantity surveyor explains
By Tim Phillips last updated
Our expert explains everything you should budget for when it comes to underpinning your home, including types of foundation and associated costs like trenching too

How much does external wall insulation cost?
By Tim Phillips published
It’s touted as a home insulation method with many benefits, but are external wall insulation costs worth the outlay? Here’s how to calculate your potential investment

How much does house rendering cost?
By Tim Phillips published
Whether you’re building a new home or renovating your property, render is a typical choice for many houses. Here’s what you need to know when budgeting for this exterior finish

Underfloor heating costs: From installation to running costs, here's what you can expect to pay
By David Hilton, Tim Phillips last updated
Underfloor heating is a popular choice for self-builders and renovators, but how much do experts recommend budgeting for underfloor heating costs?

How much does a new roof cost? The ultimate guide
By Tim Phillips, David Snell last updated
Just how much does a new roof cost? Accounting for a large part of any self build or renovation budget, it is crucial to have a clear idea of how much to set aside. Our expert guide is here to help

How much does a new patio cost? Expert budgeting advice
By Natasha Brinsmead, Tim Phillips last updated
Whether you’re building one from scratch or want to upgrade an existing area, this is how much you should budget for patio costs

How much does a conservatory cost? Our price guide will help you budget for your project
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Thinking of getting a conservatory? Our handy price guide explains how much you can expect to pay for uPVC, aluminium and timber frame designs

I'm a quantity surveyor and this is how much an MVHR system will cost
By Tim Phillips published
An MVHR system can help enhance air quality, improve a home’s energy efficiency and reduce energy bills. We look at the costs involved – both to install and run – plus savings that can be made

I'm a quantity surveyor and this is what you can expect to pay for building surveys and reports
By Tim Phillips published
Building and renovating property requires surveys and reports. Surveyor, Tim Phillips, shares expert advice on how much you can expect to pay

How much does a basement conversion cost? Our quantity surveyor answers your questions
By Tim Phillips published
Our expert quantity surveyor reveals the key basement conversion costs, plus advises what you need to consider before converting your space

How much does a kitchen renovation cost?
By Tim Phillips published
As one of the key rooms in your home, it’s worth taking the time to consider kitchen renovation costs and find ways to make your budget go further

How much will a builder cost? An updated look at prices
By Tim Phillips published
Just how much does a builder cost? A question quantity surveyor Tim Phillips gets asked a lot. Here, he shares typical rates and the factors that can influence the costs

How much does a garage conversion cost? 7 things you need to consider
By Tim Phillips published
Discover the 7 important factors that will impact your garage conversion budget with our expert guide by quantity surveyor Tim Phillips

Quote vs estimate: What's the difference when pricing up your build?
By Tim Phillips published
Quote vs estimate — which is better? If you’re looking to get a price for a job, read quantity surveyor Tim Phillip’s expert advice on these common pricing terms — and discover why quotes may be your best bet
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