External wall insulation

Commercial and public building EWI

Commercial external wall insulation upgrades the walls of offices, schools, clinics, community buildings and industrial units with an insulated render system. It improves thermal performance and gives the building a new weatherproof finish while it stays in use.

Programmes phased around opening hours and term dates
Non-combustible systems where use or height requires them
Contract roles under CDM 2015 agreed at the start
Planning applications supported with drawings and finish samples
Colour and texture options to suit brand or setting
Clear handover file with system documentation

Get a guide price See prices

A two-storey commercial building finished in white insulated render with a charcoal plinth and dark windows

Free survey for commercial EWI

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Does commercial EWI need planning permission?

Generally yes — permitted development rights for external wall changes are written for houses. Applications need elevations showing the projection, finish and colours, and details at eaves and openings.

Typical build-up

Typical system: Mineral wool or EPS depending on use and height
Approvals: Planning; Building Regulations; landlord consent
Health and safety: CDM 2015 roles agreed
Programme: Phased by elevation
Handover: System documents and maintenance guide

How is the work programmed?

Work is split by elevation so entrances and fire exits stay usable. For schools, noisy and access-heavy stages are planned around holidays where possible. Health and safety duties under CDM 2015 are agreed at the start, including who acts as principal contractor.

Which system suits a commercial building?

The building's height, use (for example, residential or assembly use) and fire strategy shape the choice. Mineral wool systems are typical for multi-storey and public buildings; EPS may suit single-storey units. The system manufacturer's classification is confirmed in writing.

Commercial and public building EWI prices

Commercial and public building EWI guide prices
Item	Guide price	Notes
Insulated render system	£110–£200 per m²+ VAT	Priced on survey
Render refurbishment without insulation	£55–£95 per m²+ VAT	Silicone or mineral
Access and scaffold	Per building	Includes edge protection

Guide prices are confirmed by a fixed written quote after a free survey. Business prices shown before VAT, which is added at 20%. Buildings used solely for a relevant charitable purpose can qualify for 0% on insulation.

How it works

Tell us about the property
Use the quote tool or form, or call free on 0800 088 6248.
Free survey
We measure the walls, check condition and confirm planning and building control.
Fixed written quote
The system, details, access, exclusions and VAT, in writing. Anything hidden is priced and agreed before extra work.
Installation and handover
Work planned around the weather, then inspected and documented.

Commercial and public building EWI: questions

Can the building stay open during the works?

Usually, yes. The work is phased and the scaffold layout keeps entrances and escape routes clear.

Do you handle the planning application?

We provide the technical information, drawings and samples an application needs; your agent or our designer can submit it.

Is VAT 0% on commercial insulation?

Usually not. The zero rate covers insulation installed in residential accommodation and, since 1 February 2024, buildings used solely for a relevant charitable purpose, such as many charity-run village halls. Other commercial work is standard-rated.

Do you provide a maintenance plan?

Yes — the handover includes the system documents and recommended inspection and cleaning intervals.

Reviewed 19 October 2026 by the Render and Insulation technical team.