Getting new carpet fitted is exciting, but it can also feel confusing when it comes to price. How much should you actually pay? What is included, and what might cost extra? This guide breaks it all down in plain English, so you know what to expect before you get a quote.
What Changes the Price of Carpet Fitting?
There is no single price that fits every job. A few things decide how much you will pay.
The Size of the Room
This is the biggest factor of all. Fitters usually work out the price per square metre, so a small bedroom will always cost less than a big lounge or an open-plan room.
The Type of Carpet You Choose
Carpets are not all the same. They are made from different fibres, such as wool, wool mix, polypropylene, nylon or polyester, and each one has its own price point and its own pros and cons. Carpets are also either woven or tufted, which affects both the look and the cost. A good fitter will talk you through these options rather than just picking the cheapest one for you.
Underlay
Underlay is the soft layer that goes underneath your carpet. It might not be the exciting part of the job, but it makes a real difference. Good underlay keeps your carpet warmer, comfier and helps it last longer. Cheap underlay might save you money now, but it usually wears out fast, meaning you pay again sooner than you should.
Removing Your Old Carpet
Most fitters, including us, offer to lift and take away your old carpet and underlay as part of the job. Always check whether this is included in your price, since some companies charge extra for it.
Gripper Rods and Getting the Floor Ready
Gripper rods are thin strips fixed around the edge of a room that grip and hold your carpet in place. If your floor underneath is uneven or damaged, it will need fixing before the gripper rods can go down properly. This kind of prep work is easy to miss in a cheap quote, so it is worth asking about upfront.
Stairs and Tricky Shapes
Stairs, landings and rooms with lots of corners take longer to fit and need more skill, so they usually cost more per square metre than a simple square or rectangular room.
Buying the Carpet and Getting It Fitted Together
Many companies, including us, offer a full carpet supply and fit service. This means the cost of the carpet itself and the cost of fitting it are combined into one simple price, which is often easier and better value than buying a carpet separately and finding your own fitter.
Typical Price Ranges
Every home is different, so treat this table as a rough guide rather than an exact price list. The real cost depends on the carpet you pick, the condition of your floor, and how much prep work is needed.
| Room Type | What Affects the Price | General Price Level |
|---|---|---|
| Small bedroom | Room size, type of carpet | Lower cost |
| Medium bedroom or hallway | Room size, underlay choice | Mid-range cost |
| Large lounge or open-plan room | Room size, extra floor prep | Higher cost |
| Staircase | Number of steps, shape of the stairs | Priced per step, adds to the total |
| Old carpet removal | Lifting and disposal | Sometimes included, sometimes extra |
For a proper price, the best step is to get someone out to measure your room. Our measuring guide explains how this works, so you know what to expect before anyone visits your home.
How to Avoid Hidden Extras
A cheap quote can look great at first, but it is worth checking exactly what is and is not included. Before you agree to anything, ask your fitter to confirm in writing:
- Whether they will remove and dispose of your old carpet
- Whether new gripper rods are included if the old ones are damaged
- What type of underlay is included
- Whether they will move furniture out of the room
- Whether fitting on stairs is included in the price
Getting this in writing protects you if any extra costs come up later. Citizens Advice has clear guidance on getting quotes from tradespeople before you agree to any home improvement work, including the difference between a quote and an estimate, which is well worth knowing before you sign anything.
Getting a Fair Quote
The best way to budget properly is to compare a few quotes and check what is actually included, rather than just looking at which number is smallest. A fitter who explains their pricing clearly, measures your room properly, and puts everything in writing is usually a much safer choice than the cheapest option on paper.
We offer free quotes and have our own in-house fitters with over 20 years of experience, working from our showroom in Rochester, Medway. If you are based in Medway or nearby and want honest, clear pricing for your carpet, our carpet fitters in Medway team can talk you through your options, from underlay to timings.
Final Thoughts
The cost of carpet fitting in Kent depends on a mix of things, including room size, the carpet and underlay you choose, and whether your old carpet needs removing first. The best way to avoid surprises is to ask for a clear, written quote that spells out exactly what is included. A bit of homework now can save you money and hassle later on.
