Why a bat in the attic could see home improvement costs go through the roof

The UK is home to 18 species of bats, all of which are protected by law, but some claim the process during planning for developments is too costly and not worthwhile - (Getty/iStock)

With the soaring cost of inflation-busting labour and building materials, homeowners embarking on renovation projects are having to stretch their budgets before even planting a spade into the ground.

But for some, the bills for even the smallest jobs, such as roof repairs or window re-glazing, are delivering crippling financial surprises due to laws in place protecting the UK’s 18 species of bat.