Over half of Brits keep tabs on their neighbours’ renovations

Britain revealed as a nation ‘keeping up appearances’ as homeowners will renovate their properties after their neighbours have done so

With summer in full swing and people spending more time in their gardens, how much do Britons enjoy snooping on their neighbours’ homes? IDSystems has revealed that almost two in three (64%) Brits keep tabs on the renovation work happening in and around their neighbourhood – with 41% particularly interested when it’s something noticeable, such as a kitchen or patio extension.

A national survey of 1000 people by luxury glazing and bifold door specialists, IDSystems, found that the nation’s interest in their neighbours’ renovation work extends past simply admiring – as 44% revealed themselves as envious observers and would seek to renovate their home after seeing that their neighbours had done so. Britain appears to be aware of its nosy habits, however, as 86% of Brits claimed curb appeal is important to them and want their property to look good both from the front and back.

Edward Stobart, Head of Projects for IDSystems comments: “It is understandable that most homeowners wish for their property to look presentable. What is interesting to see however, is how witnessing work nearby actively influences the work that people have done on their homes.

“We have clearly become more aware of what’s going on around us, including what our neighbours are having done on their properties. It seems that the larger renovations are the ones that are really catching our attention – and as we are noticing them more, there could potentially be a rise in demand for these types of extensions.”

Although the renovation work of others is catching the attention of the eagle-eyed among us, the motivation behind renovating goes past the extension envy of our neighbours. The second-most influential factor for having a home extension was to better utilise space, with 35% of those surveyed stating this was a key motivator behind renovating their home. This was closely followed by 34% wanting more space and 33% seeking to increase their property value.

Edward Stobart adds: “Although the more traditional reasons for wanting an extension are still apparent, it is clear the influence of our neighbours’ renovations has become more significant on what we choose to do to our homes.”

In terms of inspiration, IDSystems found that TV ranked top for influencing home renovation design, with 28% of those surveyed inspired most by reality and documentary shows. Surprisingly, comfortably ranking above social media.

Other popular sources of inspiration include:

• Interior design and lifestyle magazines (22%)
• Social media content, including influencers and celebrities (21%)

Furthermore, as the cost-of-living crisis becomes increasingly prevalent, the nation is becoming aware of the potential financial implications of home renovation. Interestingly, in terms of public perception, 33% stated that if they saw someone having a new kitchen or patio extension installed, they might think they are doing financially well and better than average – but nonetheless would have likely borrowed some money to pay for it.

To learn more about Brits attitudes to home renovations visit: https://idsystems.co.uk/the-future-of-smart-doors-and-windows/