How much does it cost to lay turf?
New turf is priced by area, plus ground preparation. Enter the lawn size below for a region-adjusted estimate.
What laying turf involves
- 1Clear and level
Remove the old lawn or weeds, level the ground and firm it — poor prep is why new lawns fail.
- 2Topsoil and rake
A layer of quality topsoil, raked to a fine, level tilth, gives the turf a bed to root into.
- 3Lay and water
Turf is laid in a bricked-bond pattern, rolled/tamped, and watered well for the first few weeks to establish.
A fresh, green lawn is one of the cheapest ways to make a garden photograph well for a sale — instant tidiness. The cost lives in the prep, not the turf, so don't skimp on clearing and levelling or the lawn won't take.
Turfing costs (indicative)
| Scope | Basis | Indicative cost |
|---|---|---|
| Turf (supply only) | per m² | £3 – £8/m² |
| Supply & lay (with prep) | per m² | £10 – £25/m² |
| Typical 50 m² lawn | — | £500 – £1,250 |
| Heavy clearance / topsoil | extra | priced separately |
Includes clearing, levelling and laying. New topsoil, drainage or removing an old lawn add cost.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to lay turf?+
Supplied and laid with ground preparation, turf typically costs £10–£25 per m², so a 50 m² lawn is roughly £500–£1,250. Turf alone is £3–£8 per m² if you prep and lay it yourself.
Is turf or seed cheaper for a new lawn?+
Seed is cheaper on materials but slower and more weather-dependent; turf costs more but gives an instant lawn — which matters when you're photographing a property for sale.
Related tools & guides
Want to know how these figures are calculated? See our cost methodology.
Cost figures shown are indicative estimates, not quotations. You are responsible for verifying all costs (obtain contractor quotes) and any figures submitted to a lender. ScopeWise is a documentation tool, not financial, tax, structural or planning advice. HMO compliance prompts are guidance only — confirm requirements with your local council, as standards and licensing vary by authority.