Buying a New Flat in London? Here’s Everything You Need To Know About New Flooring
Buying a new flat in London is exciting, but most buyers are surprised by how much the flooring matters once they step into the empty space. Whether you’re moving into a brand new development or a recently refurbished flat, flooring plays a major role in comfort, noise levels, maintenance, and long term value. Here is what London buyers should know before choosing new flooring or accepting the flooring included by the developer.
Do new build flats in London come with flooring
Most new build flats include flooring, but the quality varies widely. Developers often choose affordable options because they need something that works for a large number of units. That usually means basic laminate, thin carpet in bedrooms, and budget vinyl in kitchens or hallways. It looks fine on the first viewing, but many buyers replace it within the first few years because it wears down quickly or does not feel premium.
Higher end developments sometimes offer engineered wood or luxury vinyl as an upgrade, but this depends on the builder. Always check the specification sheet before completion because flooring is one of the most common areas where corners are cut.
Why so many new London homeowners replace their flooring
Once you move in and the rooms are empty, flooring becomes one of the first things you notice. The builder grade material may feel noisy, hollow, too shiny, or simply not your style. A lot of London buyers end up replacing the developer flooring because:
• it scratches easily
• it doesn’t match their furniture
• it feels cheap compared to the rest of the flat
• it makes noise without proper underlay
• it marks easily from daily use
Replacing the flooring early can help you settle into the home faster and avoid repeated maintenance down the line.
Underfloor heating changes your flooring options
Many new build flats now include underfloor heating. This affects which flooring materials you can use. The safest and most popular choices for London new builds with underfloor heating are:
These materials stay stable with temperature changes and avoid warping or cracking. Solid hardwood is usually not recommended. Checking compatibility is essential because the wrong flooring can damage the heating system.
Noise rules in London flats
Noise is a real issue in London apartment buildings. Most modern developments in areas like Canary Wharf, Nine Elms, and Stratford have acoustic requirements for flooring. If you install new flooring without the right underlay, you risk noise complaints or even violating building regulations.
This is why many new homeowners choose:
• engineered wood with acoustic underlay
• click vinyl with acoustic backing
• high density laminate underlay
A good installer will check the building’s lease or management requirements before installation.
Which flooring works best in London new builds
Different materials suit different lifestyles. Here is a quick guide.
Engineered wood
The premium option. Stable, warm, long lasting, and compatible with underfloor heating. Works especially well in open plan living spaces.
Luxury vinyl flooring
Waterproof, quiet, and very durable. Great for kitchens, bathrooms, and busy households. Popular with landlords and young professionals.
High quality laminate
A budget friendly option that looks modern and performs well. Good for bedrooms or areas with lower foot traffic.
Carpet
Still the go to choice for bedrooms because it adds warmth and absorbs sound. Easy to replace later if needed.
When to schedule new flooring installation
If you plan to upgrade your flooring, the best time is before you move furniture into the flat. Installers can work faster, the subfloor can be prepared properly, and there’s less disruption. If that is not possible, many homeowners plan flooring installation alongside their first renovation or interior update.
What to check before choosing new flooring
Before you book an installer or order materials, make sure you know:
whether your building has noise or flooring restrictions if underfloor heating is installed and what type the overall thickness limits for flooring in the lease delivery access for heavy materials the condition of the subfloor
Understanding these details ahead of time avoids delays and helps you choose the right product.
Updating the flooring in a new London flat is one of the easiest ways to make the space feel like your own. It improves the design, reduces noise, and increases comfort from day one, which is why it is one of the most common upgrades new homeowners make.