Should VAT on refurbishing and extending homes be reduced?

The Government wants more homes.

The construction industry wants to improve the homes we’ve already got. So why are homeowners still paying 20% VAT to refurbish or extend an existing property, while many new-build homes are zero-rated?

Jewson and others are now calling for that to change, arguing it would encourage more investment in existing homes, support the construction industry and make better use of the buildings we already have.

To us, it feels like common sense. Helping people improve and extend existing homes benefits homeowners, local contractors and communities alike, while making the most of the housing stock that’s already here.