How much does Artex removal cost in the UK? (2026 guide)
Updated 6 November 2026 · By the Artex Removal team
Short answer: In 2026, skimming over Artex on a typical UK bedroom ceiling usually costs £300 to £550, a living room ceiling £400 to £700, and a whole three-bedroom house £1,800 to £3,500. Full removal of non-asbestos Artex usually costs £25 to £45 per square metre. An asbestos test is usually £30 to £80 per sample.
Typical prices
| Job | Typical UK price (2026) |
|---|---|
| Asbestos sample test (per sample) | £30 to £80 |
| Skim over Artex, small room ceiling | £250 to £450 |
| Skim over Artex, bedroom ceiling | £300 to £550 |
| Skim over Artex, living room ceiling | £400 to £700 |
| Full removal, non-asbestos (per m²) | £25 to £45 |
| Removal of asbestos-containing Artex (per m²) | £50 to £100 plus disposal |
| Whole 3-bed house, skim over | £1,800 to £3,500 |
These are typical guide prices. Your actual price depends on the size of the rooms, access, the height of the ceilings, the depth of the texture and where in the UK the property is.
What affects the price
- Room size and ceiling height, including stairwells that need staging
- Depth of the pattern, because heavy swirls need more scraping back
- Whether the coating contains asbestos
- Whether you want a skim over or full removal
- Repairs to cracks, coving or damaged plasterboard
- How easy it is to clear and protect the rooms
Is skimming cheaper than removal?
Yes, usually by a wide margin. Skimming avoids the slow work of softening and stripping the coating and, if asbestos is present, it avoids licensed handling and hazardous waste disposal. For most homes it is the best value way to get a smooth ceiling.
How to get an accurate price
Send the number of rooms, rough measurements, the age of the property and a few photos. That is enough for a fixed price in most cases.
Related guides
- Does Artex contain asbestos? What UK homeowners need to know
- Skim over Artex or remove it? Pros, cons and costs
- How to choose an Artex removal contractor: questions to ask and red flags
- Artex and asbestos: the UK rules for homeowners, landlords and contractors
- Having Artex skimmed: how long it takes and what to expect on the day
- DIY Artex removal vs hiring a professional: risks, costs and results
- Overboarding vs skimming over Artex: which is right for your ceiling?
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