Cost & pricing

What Fitters Charge for a Stair Runner

Fitting a runner well is a skilled job with almost no margin for error — one bad cut and the material is gone. Here is how the trade prices that risk.

How quotes are structured

LineTypical basisRange
Straight stepsPer step$15–$40
Winder stepsPer step, 1.5–2x$25–$70
LandingsPer landing or per sq unit$40–$150
Rod fittingPer rod$8–$20
Old carpet removalPer flight$50–$200
Minimum calloutFlat$150–$300

Know your numbers in 30 seconds

Enter your step count, tread depth and riser height — the stair runner calculator gives you the exact length to order, in metres and feet, with waste included.

Open the stair runner calculator

What pushes the price up

  • Curved, flared or bullnose bottom steps requiring templating.
  • Patterned runners needing alignment across every piece.
  • Concrete or tiled stairs where fixings cannot be stapled.
  • Awkward access, tight halls, or working around a live household.
  • Removing and disposing of old carpet, gripper and staples.

Supply-and-fit vs fit-only

Many fitters charge a premium for fit-only work, or decline it, because they carry the blame for a shortfall in material they did not measure. If you supply your own runner, get the length signed off by them first.

Questions to ask before booking

  1. Is the quote per step, and how are winders and landings counted?
  2. Does it include underlay, gripper and disposal?
  3. Who is responsible if the runner is short?
  4. How is the pattern repeat being handled?
  5. Is there a guarantee, and how long?

Whatever you decide, get the numbers first: the stair runner calculator doubles as a stair runner length calculator, adding nosing wrap, landings, winders, pattern repeat and waste so you order the right length the first time.

Frequently asked questions

How much do fitters charge to fit a stair runner?

Commonly $15 to $40 per straight step, with winders at 1.5 to 2 times that rate and landings quoted separately.

Will a fitter install a runner I bought myself?

Many will, but often at a higher rate and with no liability for length or material faults. Have them confirm your measurements before you order.

Is there a minimum charge for stair runner fitting?

Yes — typically $150 to $300, which covers a half-day even on a short flight.

Know your numbers in 30 seconds

Enter your step count, tread depth and riser height — the stair runner calculator gives you the exact length to order, in metres and feet, with waste included.

Benchmark my quote

Keep reading