When it comes to making decisions about home renovation projects, women wear the trousers – it’s official.

According to research by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), women are twice as likely as their partners to have the final say on the style and scope of a refurbishment project.

Of the 2,000 UK home owners quizzed, 29 per cent of women said the buck stopped with them, while just 14 per cent said their spouse had the final say.

Ladies are also hot on DIY - 78 per cent have painted a room, 65 per cent have put flat-pack furniture together and 58 per cent have unblocked a sink.

Furthermore, 43 per cent have unblocked a toilet, a quarter have cleared the guttering and more than half have changed a fuse.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders, said: “This research shows that any lingering gender stereotypes regarding domestic life are totally outdated. Not only do women lead on decisions regarding the style and scope of building projects, they also get stuck in themselves when hiring a builder isn’t necessary.

“In 21st century Britain, you’re just as likely to find a woman up a ladder clearing out the guttering or battling with flat-pack furniture, as you might be likely to find her performing some of the more traditional domestic chores.”