Planning a complete house renovation in the UK? Whether you’re looking to refresh your space or completely transform your home, understanding the costs involved is crucial. Renovations can be exciting but come with hefty price tags, particularly in 2026, when inflation and rising material costs have impacted budgets. So, how much does a complete house renovation actually cost in the UK?
What is a Full House Renovation?
A whole-house renovation typically involves significant upgrades and repairs across multiple rooms in your home. This could include:
- Kitchen and bathroom remodeling.
- Rewiring, plumbing, and heating system upgrades.
- Structural changes, like knocking down walls or adding extensions.
- Flooring, painting, and interior design updates.
For a standard 3-bedroom house in the UK (approximately 90-120 sqm), the average renovation cost ranges between £50,000 and £100,000, equivalent to £1,000-£2,500 per sqm, depending on the scope of work, location, and quality of materials used. If you’re working with a tight budget, a smaller-scale cosmetic refresh may cost as little as £30,000, while high-end luxury renovations or structural changes can push costs beyond £150,000.
Looking to plan your renovation? Let’s dive deeper into the costs and factors to help you get started.
Cost Ranges Overview
Renovation costs can vary significantly based on the scope of work and the quality of finishes you choose. Here’s a breakdown of typical cost ranges:
Cosmetic Refresh
- Cost Range: £30,000 – £60,000
- Scope: Basic upgrades like painting, flooring, and replacing fixtures such as lighting or door handles.
- Ideal For: Homes that don’t require structural work but need a fresh look.
Comprehensive Renovation
- Cost Range: £60,000 – £100,000
- Scope: Includes kitchen and bathroom remodeling, rewiring, and plumbing updates. This is for homes needing moderate upgrades in functionality and aesthetics.
Full Back-to-Brick Renovation
- Cost Range: £100,000 – £150,000+
- Scope: This involves stripping the property down to its structural framework, making significant structural changes, and adding extensive new systems or extensions.
Regional Cost Differences
Renovation costs also depend heavily on your location within the UK. Here’s a table to illustrate typical costs:
Location Average Cost (3-Bed House)Per Sqm
London/South East £75,000 – £150,000+ £1,500 – £3,000
North/Midlands £40,000 – £80,000 £800 – £1,800
Average UK £50,000 – £100,000 £1,000 – £2,500
Note: In 2026, rising material and labor costs (up 5-10%) have driven these averages higher.
Room-by-Room Breakdown
Let’s explore the cost breakdown for each room to help you budget effectively.
Kitchen (£10,000 – £25,000)
The kitchen is often the most expensive room to renovate, given the integration of cabinetry, appliances, plumbing, and tiling. For a standard kitchen:
- Budget Range: £10,000-£15,000 for basic installations.
- Mid-Range: £15,000-£20,000 for upgraded materials and integrated appliances.
- Luxury Finish: £25,000+ for custom kitchens with high-end countertops and Premium appliances.
Bathrooms (£5,000 – £12,000 each)
Bathrooms are another key renovation area. Costs depend on the number of bathrooms and the complexity of plumbing work:
- New suites, tiling, and fixtures can cost £5,000-£8,000 per bathroom.
- High-end bathrooms with Premium fittings may cost £10,000-£12,000 or more.
Bedrooms and Living Areas (£8,000 – £20,000)
These areas generally involve plastering, new flooring, painting, and lighting updates.
- Budget Range: £8,000 for minor upgrades.
- Comprehensive Updates: £15,000-£20,000.
Whole-House Systems
These are essential to modernizing your home:
- Rewiring: £3,000 – £6,000
- Plumbing: £4,000 – £8,000
- Heating/Boiler Replacement: £4,000 – £10,000
- Windows/Doors: £8,000 – £25,000
Additional Costs
- Flooring: £4,000 – £10,000
- Painting: £2,500 – £6,000
Hidden & Additional Costs
When budgeting, don’t overlook hidden costs that can add up quickly. Here’s what you need to account for:
Planning Permissions and Fees
- Range: £500 – £2,000
- If you’re making structural changes, planning permissions may be required.
Architects and Professionals
- Range: £2,000 – £5,000
Waste Removal
- Range: £1,000 – £3,000
- Renovations generate significant debris, and proper disposal is essential.
Contingency Fund
- Allocate 10-20% of your total budget (typically £5,000 – £20,000) to cover unexpected costs.
Here’s a quick table of hidden costs:
Hidden Cost Range
Planning Fees £500 – £2,000
Scaffolding £2,000 – £5,000
Contingency 15% of total
Factors Affecting Renovation Costs
Several factors influence the total cost of a renovation. Here are the key considerations:
- Property Size and Age
- Larger homes or older properties (e.g., Victorian terraces) often require more work, increasing costs by 20-30%.
- Location
- Renovations in London and the South East are 30-40% more expensive than in the North or Midlands.
- Materials and Specifications
- High-end materials lead to higher costs. For instance, solid wood flooring costs significantly more than laminate alternatives.
- Labor Costs
- Skilled laborers charge between £150 and £300 per day, depending on location and expertise.
Budgeting Tips
Want to keep your renovation on budget? Here are some practical tips:
- Get Multiple Quotes
- Request 3+ quotes from contractors to compare prices and services.
- Prioritize Essential Work
- Focus on high ROI areas like kitchens and bathrooms. These rooms can increase your home’s value by 10-15%.
- DIY Where Possible
- Simple tasks like painting or assembling furniture could save you 10-20% of labor costs.
- Track Your Spending
- Use spreadsheets or cost calculators to monitor expenses and avoid overspending.
Case Studies
3-Bed Semi in Manchester
- Cost: £55,000
- Scope: Comprehensive renovation including a new kitchen, bathroom, and rewiring.
Victorian Terrace in London
- Cost: £120,000
- Scope: Full back-to-brick renovation with structural changes and high-end finishes.
