Plan the whole outdoor area

Patios, paving and paths

We can discuss porcelain, natural stone or concrete paving, with the product and installation specification agreed for the intended use. The package can include excavation, preparation, laying, edges and joints.

Measure the area and mark steps, thresholds, gullies and inspection covers. A patio price should explain the preparation and disposal work as well as the visible paving.

Associated external building work

Related packages can include agreed steps, garden walls, bases and making good alongside an extension or garden room. Tell us about fencing, gates, lighting and planting that need to stay or be coordinated.

Driveways, raised terraces and retaining walls have different loading, drainage and design considerations. Describe these clearly so they are assessed and priced as the right type of work.

Levels and drainage before surface choices

Check finished levels against doors, the existing building and neighbouring land. Water needs a suitable destination, and new paving should not simply move a drainage problem elsewhere. Access routes and the usability of steps also matter when the layout changes.

Front-garden paving has specific planning rules linked to the surface and drainage arrangement. Raised areas, listed properties and other restrictions can also affect permissions. Check the proposed scheme before materials are ordered, using site-specific advice where needed.

Front-garden paving: planning permission and drainage checks

What affects patio installation costs?

A supply price for paving slabs is not an installed patio price. Compare the full build-up and the work needed to deliver materials and remove waste.

Quotation item	What to make clear
Preparation	Existing surface removal, excavation, ground condition and the specified base.
Materials and layout	Paving product, sizes, pattern, cutting, edging and joint finish.
Levels and drainage	Thresholds, steps, gullies, covers, water routes and any designed retaining work.
Access and completion	Movement through the property, protection, waste removal and reinstatement of disturbed areas.

The written quotation identifies inclusions, exclusions, supply responsibilities and any provisional items. Confirm VAT treatment and payment stages for the agreed package.

Compare quotation scopes

Questions before you start

Can you install paving we have already bought?

Yes, once we have checked suitability, quantities and the installation requirements. Send the product details before the scope and start date are agreed.

Can a new patio be laid over an old one?

That needs an assessment of the existing construction, levels, drainage and the proposed system. Do not assume it is a suitable shortcut.

Can patio work be combined with an extension?

Yes. Coordinating thresholds, drainage and delivery routes helps define a complete scope. The sequence has to allow for heavy construction traffic before the final surface is finished.

What to send for a useful quotation

Send the postcode, photographs, a rough plan with dimensions and the intended surface. Include access width, changes in level, known drainage issues and any extension or garden-room drawings that affect the area.

Related work

Garden rooms

Garden walls and brickwork

House extensions

Further guidance

GOV.UK: front-garden paving and drainage ↗

Planning Portal: patios and driveways ↗

Patios and external works in London

Tell us about the outdoor area.