Each year The National Self Build & Renovation Centre produces a survey in partnership with the National Custom & Self Build Association (NaCSBA).
The 2026 survey marks our sixth edition and was completed by 415 people. This data provides a detailed view of those planning, undertaking, or having recently completed substantial homebuilding projects.
We asked almost exactly the same set of questions this year to better understand the motivations of homebuilders, as well as the barriers they are facing in the current market, building on our existing dataset from the five previous surveys.
We have produced a helpful infographic, which summarises the key findings on what matters to self-builders and home improvers in 2026.
Please click on the below image to view the full infographic.
Planning a self-build or major renovation? Before you start choosing paint colours, ripping out bathrooms or getting builders through the door, there are a few things I’d strongly recommend doing first.
I’ve renovated, styled and worked on enough properties to know that the projects that run most smoothly aren’t necessarily the ones with the biggest budgets - they’re the ones where the homeowner has thought ahead.
Because when you’re in the middle of a renovation, there will be things you didn’t expect. There will be decisions you need to make quickly, deliveries that don’t arrive, costs that change and, inevitably, the odd moment when you wonder why on earth you started.
So, here are my five top tips for getting yourself organised before the work begins.
Our Trade Village is home to more than 200 permanent exhibiting partners, selected for their reputable and relevant services and their expertise in the self build and renovation community.
Keep reading to discover the latest offerings & events at the NSBRC...
Our Trade Village is home to more than 200 permanent exhibiting partners, selected for their reputable and relevant services and their expertise in the self build and renovation community.
Keep reading to discover the latest offerings & events at the NSBRC...
