borehole in London (117)

Need precise, clean holes cut through concrete, brick, or stone for plumbing, ventilation or electrical work? You'll want to hire a core drilling specialist for:

• Cleaner cuts
• Less mess
• Reduced risk of hitting pipes, wires, or structural elements

Read on for everything you need to know about finding and hiring core drilling companies in London.

Rather we do the searching bit for you? Try our quick request a quote feature and we’ll put you in touch with core drilling companies covering your local area.

What does core drilling mean?

Core drilling is a method of cutting smooth, circular holes through tough materials such as concrete, blockwork, brick, and stone.

A specialist drill with a diamond-tipped core bit removes a cylinder (the ‘core’), leaving a clean-edged opening.

Homeowners typically use core drilling for:

• Plumbing runs
• Extractor fans
• Boiler flues
• Wiring routes
• Structural testing

How much does core drilling cost in London?

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But for an exact quote, we always recommend contacting a tradesperson directly.

How much does core drilling cost per hole UK?

Core drilling costs per hole depend on the size and quantity. Here are some average prices:

• X12 52mm holes drilled – Around £35 per hole (around £420 in total)
• X18 52mm holes drilled – Around £26 per hole (around £468 in total)

So, as you can see, you can expect to pay less per hole if you're getting a lot of holes done as opposed to just a few.

Tip: Our core drilling cost guide goes into more detail about prices for different hole sizes.

What factors affect the cost of core drilling?

The total cost you pay for specialist core drilling will depend on a number of factors, including:

• The number of holes required
• How wide the holes need to be
• Whether the holes are made in the wall or the floor

What type of drill is used for core drilling?

Specialists use rotary core drills fitted with diamond core bits. These drills can be handheld for smaller diameters or rig-mounted for larger, deeper, or more delicate cuts.

Do I need permission for core drilling in my home?

In most cases, no planning permission is needed for drilling small holes for services.

However, if your property is listed, in a conservation area, or if drilling affects structural elements, you may need approval first.

If in doubt, ask a specialist or contact your local council to double-check.

Is core drilling hard work?

For DIYers, core drilling is tricky. It requires knowledge of structural safety and you’ll also need to invest in expensive specialist drill bits.

That's why most homeowners leave this job to a core drilling specialist.

Why use Checkatrade?

• Fully checked specialists covering your local area
• Insurance always listed
• Easy to compare multiple profiles
• Handy reviews from local customers
• Covered by the Checkatrade Guarantee (T&Cs apply)