Your Ultimate Guide To Home Renovations

Home renovations can completely change how you live - and how your home feels.

Whether you’re tackling a full house renovation, updating a tired kitchen, or adding a new extension, the key to success lies in preparation, smart budgeting, and understanding the real costs involved.

Here, we break down the cost of home renovations, timelines, common mistakes, and expert tips to help you get it right the first time.

 

How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a House in the UK?

 

Renovation costs can change quite dramatically depending on where you live, what the project size is and the materials you choose.

According to Checkatrade (2024 data), a full renovation of a typical 3-bedroom house can cost anywhere from £43,530 to £110,350, with an average of around £76,690.

That includes everything from a new kitchen to rewiring, heating, windows, and decorating.

If you're measuring by square metre:

Basic cosmetic upgrades: £500 - £1,000 per m²

Full renovations: £1,000 - £1,500 per m²

High-end renovations: £1,500 - £2,500+ per m²

(Source: Checkatrade, 2024)

When starting a renovation project, it's always worth setting aside 10–15% of your total budget as a contingency to cover surprises like damp, faulty wiring, or structural fixes.

Note: These figures are estimates - actual costs depend on the extent of the work, the materials used, and the rates charged by contractors.

 

Renovation Costs Of Different Areas

 

If you need a slightly more detailed budget estimate, let’s look at what different rooms or upgrades might cost.

Kitchen Renovation Costs

Budget: £16,000 – £48,000

(Source: Work-Tops, 2025)

Includes:

• Appliances
• New worktops (e.g. granite, quartz, onyx)
• Cabinetry and fittings
• Lighting and flooring

 

Bathroom Renovation Costs

Budget: £8,000 – £24,000

Includes:

• Fixtures (toilet, sink, bath or shower)
• Tiles and waterproofing
• Heating and lighting upgrades
• Optional features like walk-in showers or freestanding tubs

 

Other Renovation Costs

• Loft conversion: £30,000 – £50,000
• Roof replacement: £6,500 – £18,000
• Damp proofing: £500 – £5,000
• Extension (single-storey): £1,500 – £2,500/m²

(Source: Checkatrade, 2024)

 

How To Create A Realistic Budget That Works

 

Renovation costs can quickly snowball if you’re not careful. Here’s how to set and manage a working budget:

Budgeting Tips

1. Set a ceiling budget first – what’s your absolute max spend?
2. Categorise expenses:
   1. Labour
   2. Materials
   3. Fixtures/furnishings
   4. Fees (planning, permits, surveys)
3. Get 3–5 quotes per trade for accuracy
4. Track all costs as the project progresses

 

 

Labour Costs in 2025

(Checkatrade, 2024)

Plumber/Electrician: £250 - £400/day

Builder: £200 - £250/day

Painter, decorator, tiler: £150 - £250/day

Labourers: £150 - £180/day

 

What Do I Do With My Stuff Whilst I'm Renovating My House?

 

A common dilemma faced during home renovations is what to do with your stuff.

To protect your items from dust, damage, and to keep them out of the way of contractors, consider putting them in storage.

Renting a storage unit can be a great way to keep your stuff safe until the home renovation work is completed.

Alternatively, companies like The Box Co. offer storage priced per box, starting from just £3.56 per month. This cost includes everything, from collection to delivery, storage and insurance. 

For a free quote for affordable storage near you, Click here.

 

What’s The Right Order To Renovate a House?

 

Timing matters. Doing tasks in the wrong order can lead to wasted time and budget.

Here’s a normal sequence of events:

1. Demolition and strip-out
2. Structural work (walls, floors, ceilings)
3. First fix: plumbing, wiring, heating
4. Plastering
5. Flooring and tiling
6. Second fix: sockets, switches, radiators
7. Install kitchen and bathroom
8. Painting and decorating

Following this order helps prevent damage and avoids the need to re-do anything.

 

Common Renovation Mistakes to Avoid

 

Even experienced homeowners can run into issues. Here are some top mistakes to steer clear of:

Underestimating costs: Always get 3–4 quotes and research thoroughly

Skipping permits or inspections: This can lead to delays, fines, or resale issues

Not prioritising: Focus on structural repairs before aesthetic upgrades

Poor communication: Stay in close contact with your contractor and tradespeople to keep them on track

 

Is Renovating A House Worth It?

 

Yes - renovating in 2025 is still worth it, but only if you plan carefully. 

A well-planned renovation can improve your quality of life, increase the value of your home, and make your space work better for you. 

If your home has potential, and you’re prepared to manage the process, renovation is one of the most rewarding investments you can make this year.