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How much does an irrigation system cost?: Price breakdown 2026
Updated 05/26
An irrigation system is an efficient and eco-friendly way to automate the supply of water to your plants, lawn, land, or crops.
But just how much does an irrigation system cost?
Read on to learn about the average cost to install an irrigation system, and the hidden costs to watch out for.
Fast Facts
The average labour cost for installing an irrigation system is £600 per day
You'll also need to factor in the cost of the irrigation system kit itself
A sprinkler system zone costs, on average £900
A drip irrigation system zone cost is around £282.50
Irrigation costs per zone differ depending on the type of soil, what you plan to grow, and the water supply pressure
How much does an irrigation system cost in the UK?
| Cost provided item | Unit | Range - low | Range - high | Average cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sprinkler system | Per zone | £700 | £1,100 | £900 |
| Drip irrigation system | Per zone | £250 | £315 | £282.50 |
| Irrigation system installation | Labour | £480 | £720 | £600 |
| Last updated: May 2026 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||||
On average, the labour costs for installing an irrigation system can be anything from £480 and £720 per day.
More than you were expecting to pay for labour?
Installing irrigation systems can be fiddly and time-consuming, with ground excavation to tackle. There's also lots of pipework, filters and sensors to consider.
Let's get into it.
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Irrigation system cost per zone
The two most common types of irrigation systems are lawn sprinkler systems and drip irrigation systems. Let's break down the costs:
Lawn irrigation system cost
Dreaming of a lawn like Wembley Stadium's? A lawn irrigation system (also known as a professional sprinkler system) is the way forward.
Lawn irrigation system prices often start at around £700 to £1,100
That said, the cost of a lawn irrigation system will depend on the size of the lawn and how many sprinklers are needed.
Drip irrigation system cost
A drip irrigation system is the most efficient way to manage your water supply. As the name states, the system releases small quantities of water to the roots of plants at a steady, continuous rate.
The average drip irrigation system cost begins at approximately £250 and £315
It's worth noting, though, that the types of soil in each zone may impact the price, as different soils absorb and drain water at different rates.
Also, what is being grown there is an important consideration. For example, a vegetable patch may require more water than a flower bed.
A professional can advise on the best system for each zone.
Find an experienced irrigation installer near you
Ready to get your project underway? Contact local irrigation companies that we've checked and approved in your area to get a selection of quotes using our free mobile app below.
Irrigation system cost calculator
Not quite ready to contact a tradesperson and would prefer a rough estimate instead? Why not use our free cost calculator below?
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Landed here looking for farm irrigation system costs? This is more specialist as you'll most likely need more powerful pumps to combat low water pressure in difficult terrain. Contact an irrigation company directly for more on prices.
Factors affecting your irrigation system cost
Understanding the factors that can affect the cost of installing a garden irrigation system in the UK will help you to plan your budget effectively. The main influencing factors include:
The size of the land you need the system installed on: The more land you need irrigating, the greater the cost
The type of soil underneath: Rocky soil will take longer to excavate, while sandy soil is often unstable and may need to be stabilised. Both of these scenarios can result in extra costs
Whether there are underground obstacles: You may encounter underground obstacles such as tree roots, utility pipes and drains that will need to be avoided
Existing features: If existing features such as pathways, patios and shrubberies will need to be dug up, you'll need to make sure you factor in this cost (or you could have a go at digging them up yourself)
How level your land is: If your land has a slope or several height levels, the water flow and pressure may require a pump or cistern to be added to the system
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What's included in an irrigation system quote?
As a general rule, the following elements are usually included in an irrigation installation quote:
Supply of all materials (pipework, sprinklers, fittings)
Installation labour
Basic system testing and setup
Removal and disposal of waste material
Some of the less obvious costs to be aware of are up next.
What might not be included in an irrigation system quote?
Each irrigation system job is different, depending on the size of your land and the quality of your soil.
Factors that might not be wrapped up in an initial quote could include:
Extra labour time for levelling uneven soil (for very uneven ground)
Supply of ground materials for levelling
Reinstating turf, decking, or paving afterwards
Smart technology, such as programmable timers and rain sensors
Electrical work for pumps
Water pressure upgrades or additional drainage work
Ongoing maintenance and seasonal servicing
VAT costs, depending on the contractor’s pricing structure
That's why it's important to confirm what’s included in the price of your project when you speak to local tradespeople.
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Is an irrigation system installation worth it?
On the fence deciding whether upgrading to an irrigation system is worth it? Here are the key benefits:
Delivers water directly to the roots, reducing waste and promoting hydration (a lifeline for plants, crops and lawns with the UK's increasingly hot summers)
Provides consistent moisture levels with smart programmable timers and rain sensors
Uses only the amount of water necessary for your plants to thrive, meaning reduced water bills
Customises your watering schedule to suit the changing seasons and plant needs
Automates watering, saving you time and effort
When hot weather comes, a hosepipe ban normally follows. But did you know trickle and drip irrigation systems are often exempt from the ban? Our expert advice guide to exemptions to the hosepipe ban has all the details.
Cost of hiring an irrigation installer vs DIY
Thinking about a DIY installation?
Irrigation systems can be complex underground networks. So, although doing it yourself might be initially less expensive, corrections can become very costly.
A professional installation will be accurately fitted and more cost-effective in the long run.
Irrigation system costs: Checklist
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Whether you're looking for rough costs for lawn care, or want help with specific services like lawn aeration, at Checkatrade we're here to help you get a job done right.
FAQs about irrigation systems
What is the meaning of irrigation?
Irrigation is the process of supplying water to lawns, plants, or crops automatically through a system of pipes, sprinklers, or drip lines. It helps keep gardens healthy by delivering water evenly and efficiently.
Can I install an irrigation system myself?
Simple drip irrigation kits and hose-fed watering systems can often be installed as a DIY project. However, larger or fully automated irrigation systems are usually best installed by a professional to ensure correct water pressure, pipework, and drainage.
What are the different parts of an irrigation system?
Most irrigation systems include a water supply connection, control valves, pipework, sprinklers or drip lines, filters, and a timer or smart controller. Some systems also include rain sensors or moisture sensors to help reduce water waste.
What is the best type of irrigation system for a lawn?
Sprinkler systems are usually the best option for lawns because they provide even coverage across large areas of grass. Pop-up sprinklers are a popular choice for domestic gardens as they stay hidden when not in use.
Which irrigation system is best for a greenhouse?
Drip irrigation systems are often the best choice for greenhouses because they deliver water directly to plant roots with minimal waste. They also help maintain consistent moisture levels without overwatering delicate plants.
What are the disadvantages of a smart irrigation system?
Smart irrigation systems can cost more upfront than standard systems and may require Wi-Fi or app connectivity to work properly. Sensors and automated controls can also need occasional maintenance or updates to keep the system running efficiently
What is the cheapest type of irrigation system?
Drip irrigation is generally the cheapest irrigation system to install and run. It delivers water directly to plant roots, helping to reduce water waste and keep running costs low.
How do you estimate the cost of an irrigation system?
Irrigation costs are usually based on the size of the garden, the number of watering zones, the type of system being installed, and whether excavation work is needed. Extras such as smart controllers, rain sensors, and underground pipework can also increase the total price.
Is a sprinkler system worth it?
A sprinkler system can save time, improve watering efficiency, and help keep lawns and plants healthier throughout the year. Automated systems are especially useful for larger gardens or homeowners who want low-maintenance garden care.
Can I install an irrigation system myself?
Simple hose-fed drip irrigation kits can often be installed as a DIY job. However, larger or fully automated systems usually require professional installation to make sure water pressure, pipework, and drainage are set up correctly.
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