How much does a house renovation cost?

Understanding house renovation costs for a full home makeover

Ever wondered about the true cost of a house renovation? Get a better understanding of where your money goes, from materials to labour, and avoid any budget surprises. By breaking down each expense, you can plan more effectively and make smarter choices for your project.

In this Price Guide we will talk about:

1. An overview of house renovation costs
2. Full house renovation cost: What to expect?
3. Room-by-room cost breakdown for a house renovation
4. How much does labour cost for a house renovation?
5. Home renovation permits and regulations
6. Hidden costs in home renovation
7. Find builders for your house renovation through MyBuilder
8. FAQ: Common questions readers ask about house renovations

An overview of house renovation costs

Renovating a home can be a substantial investment, with costs typically ranging from £650 to £2,800 per square metre, depending on the project's complexity.

For basic cosmetic updates, expect to pay around £650 per square metre, whereas a full strip-out and high-end remodelling could reach up to £2,800 per square metre.

Renovation task	Cost
Full internal strip-out & refit	£650 – £2,000 /m²
Rewire (whole house)	£4,000 – £12,000+
Plumbing & central heating	£3,500 – £12,000
New kitchen (supply + fit)	£5,000 – £40,000+
Bathroom (per bathroom)	£2,500 – £12,000
Roof repairs / replacement	£4,000 – £20,000+
Windows/doors (per unit)	£400 – £2,500+
Loft conversion	£20,000 – £70,000
Extensions (single storey)	£1,800 – £3,500 /m²

Don't forget: Incorporating a 10% to 20% contingency can help cover unexpected expenses if they arise during the renovation.

MyBuilder Tip: Always request detailed quotes to understand how the costs are distributed across labour, materials, and other expenses.

Full house renovation cost: What to expect?

A full house renovation typically involves updating multiple aspects of the home, including electrical systems, plumbing, and structural modifications. Expect to pay anywhere from £43,500 to £180,000+ for a typical 3-bedroom house.

When budgeting for a full house renovation, consider these specific cost elements:

• Demolition and disposal: Cost for removal of old structures and waste disposal.
• Structural alterations: Modifications like knocking down walls or adding extensions.
• Electrical and plumbing updates: Installing new systems can ensure efficiency and compliance with the latest standards.
• Interior finishes: This includes flooring, painting, and fitting new fixtures.
• Labour costs: Account for skilled tradespeople such as carpenters, electricians, and plumbers.
• Professional fees: Fees for architects, surveyors, and any required permissions or inspections.

If you're considering upgrading your heating system, explore our guide on How Much Does a New Boiler Cost? for detailed pricing insights. For flooring updates, you can also read our guide on How Much Does Flooring Installation Cost?.

Room-by-room cost breakdown for a house renovation

Each room in a house has different renovation needs and costs. Planning ahead ensures you allocate your budget wisely and prioritise the most important upgrades.

Room	Cost
Living Room	£3,000 – £10,000
Kitchen	£5,000 – £40,000+
Bathroom	£2,500 – £12,000
Bedroom	£2,000 – £8,000
Basement	£10,000 – £50,000
Loft	£20,000 – £70,000
Garage Conversion	£5,000 – £20,000

If you're thinking about renovating your kitchen, our in-depth guide on How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost? provides helpful insights on pricing and budgeting. And if you're thinking about upgrading your staircase, explore our guide on staircase remodel ideas for creative ideas.

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How much does labour cost for a house renovation?

Hiring professionals for your house renovation ensures quality workmanship and compliance with building regulations. Labour costs vary based on the complexity of the job and expertise required.

Trade	Average Daily Rate
General Contractor	10% - 20% of project cost
Electrician	£150 - £300
Plumber	£150 - £300
Carpenter	£200 - £250
Painter & Decorator	£150 - £200

For an in-depth look at how much it costs to hire a plumber, visit our price guide.

Renovating a house can vary in cost, but one thing is certain: hiring the right tradesperson ensures that your project is completed efficiently and to a high standard. Don't risk costly mistakes—post your job on MyBuilder today and find a builder near you here.

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Home renovation permits and regulations

Certain renovations may require permits to comply with local building codes and these costs should be factored into your renovation budget.

A building permit typically costs between £300 and £500, while an electrical permit ranges from £50 to £200.

Plumbing permits can vary from £50 to £250 and planning permission usually costs between £200 and £300.

By understanding house renovation costs and planning accordingly, you can ensure a successful and cost-effective renovation that adds value to your home. If you're considering a larger project like building a new home, our guide on Building a New House Cost offers a comprehensive breakdown of the costs involved.

Wondering how much your house renovation will cost? Get peace of mind by obtaining multiple quotes from builders. Find builders near you and post your job on MyBuilder today to kickstart your project with confidence!

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Hidden costs in home renovation: Be prepared

Home renovation projects are notorious for their hidden costs, which often catch homeowners by surprise. Planning for unforeseen expenses is essential to avoid financial stress and ensure the renovation proceeds smoothly.

• Structural issues: Uncovering problems like damp or rotten wood can significantly increase costs and delay completion.

• Design changes: Changes in design or materials midway through can lead to increased costs.

• Unidentified damages: Discovering hidden damages, such as electrical faults or plumbing issues, can add unexpected expenses.

• Utility upgrades: Consider the potential cost of upgrading utilities to support your new home design.

Find builders for your house renovation through MyBuilder

Curious about the cost of a home renovation? Connect with verified builders near you on MyBuilder to discuss the ins and outs. Our platform makes it easy to compare quotes, ensuring you find the right tradesperson for your project. Don't wait any longer—post your job today and bring your dream home to life with the help of professionals on MyBuilder!

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FAQ: Common questions readers ask about house renovations

What are common challenges people face during a full house renovation?

Common challenges include budget overages due to unforeseen issues or scope changes and timescale overruns from delays or scheduling conflicts. To manage these, build a contingency budget, plan the project in detail and communicate regularly with contractors. Regulatory hurdles, such as permits, can also arise, so it’s important to understand local regulations and work with experienced professionals.

Is there a cost difference between renovating and remodelling a house and if so, why?

Yes, there is typically a cost difference. Renovating usually involves updating and repairing existing features without changing the layout, making it less expensive. Remodelling, however, often includes structural changes, layout alterations and adding new features, making it more costly due to the need for more extensive work and professional expertise.

What are some effective ways to lower home renovation costs without compromising on quality?

To lower costs, prioritise essential improvements and use durable yet affordable materials. Compare contractors and materials, opt for minor upgrades over full replacements and repurpose existing structures where possible. Incorporating energy-efficient improvements can save long-term costs. Thorough planning and avoiding mid-project changes can also help keep costs down.

How can I plan and prioritise renovation tasks to manage my budget effectively?

Start with a detailed plan outlining all improvements and costs. Prioritise tasks based on necessity, safety and value. Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected issues and obtain multiple quotes to find cost-effective solutions. Phasing renovations over time can help manage finances and reduce stress. Regularly review costs and progress to ensure the budget stays on track.