UK · Updated 2026 · How-to

Reclaimed Structural Timber for HMO & BTR Refurbs in Brighton: 2026 Trade Guide

HMO and BTR operators in Brighton face relentless refurb cycles. Surplus timber can bring per-unit costs down 30–50%. Here's the 2026 sourcing playbook across South East.

HMO refurb sourcing checklist

  • Standing order with South East clearance yards
  • Bulk buys inside BN1, BN2 and BN3 to cut delivery frequency
  • Match spec across portfolio to simplify snagging
  • Trade-only alerts on new stock

Brighton per-unit cost impact

GradeTypical priceNotes
Job-lot / bulk£380 per m³Merchant clearance, palletised
Standard graded£890 per m³Sorted, ready-to-fit stock
Heritage / premium£1,400 per m³Character grade, hand-picked

Compliance for rental refurbs

  • FD30 rated doors on escape routes
  • Fire-line plasterboard on partition walls
  • PIR to current U-value regs on external elements
  • PAT-tested appliances where applicable

Turnaround pace in Brighton

Efficient HMO operators in Brighton rotate units in 5–10 days. Surplus stock held on standing order removes 2–4 days of merchant lead time per changeover.

Frequently asked questions

+Do surplus materials meet HMO regs?

Yes when the base spec is correct — fire-line, FD30, U-value. Verify with your compliance officer per unit.

+Is reclaimed timber structurally graded?

Not automatically — arrange visual regrading (BS 4978) or lab strength testing for load-bearing use.

+Can I claim capital allowances?

Yes — HMO refurb capital expenditure qualifies whether the materials are new or surplus.

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