How Much Does It Cost to Fully Renovate a House in the UK? Average Prices and Planning Tips

Renovating a house can be one of the most rewarding projects for homeowners, but it can also be one of the most expensive. 

From new wiring and plumbing to kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring, the costs can quickly add up. 

Understanding what drives those costs - and how to plan for them - is the key to staying on budget and achieving the finish you want.

In this guide, we will break down the average cost of a full house renovation in the UK, explain where most of the budget goes, and offer practical advice for planning and setting aside the right finances.

The Average Cost to Fully Renovate a House in the UK

The cost to fully renovate a house in the UK varies and can depend on the size, location, and current state of the property. 

Renovation costs in the UK can range anywhere from £20,000 to over £150,000, depending on how extensive the work is.

Here’s a rough idea of what different types of homes typically cost to renovate:

• Flat or small terrace: £20,000–£30,000

• Three-bedroom semi-detached: £40,000–£70,000

• Large detached or period property: £80,000–£150,000+

  
  

Prices in London and the South East are usually at least 20–30% higher than in other parts of the UK due to increased labour and material costs.

A full renovation usually covers structural repairs, re-plastering, rewiring, new plumbing, insulation, flooring, and kitchen and bathroom installation. 

If your property is older or hasn’t been updated in decades, you can expect higher costs due to additional preparation and compliance with building regulations.

Key Factors That Affect Renovation Costs

Several elements influence the overall cost of a renovation. Understanding them can help you plan your project more realistically.

1. Property condition

Older or neglected properties often need major work before cosmetic changes can begin. This might include damp treatment, insulation, or foundation repairs.

2. Scope of work

A full renovation that includes layout changes or an extension will cost significantly more than a refresh of existing rooms.

3. Materials and finishes

High-end kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring increase costs quickly. Choosing mid-range materials can create a similar finish at a fraction of the price.

4. Labour and professional fees

You’ll need to budget for architects, surveyors, and contractors, as well as possible planning permission fees or structural engineer reports.

5. Project timeline

Tight deadlines can push up costs if you need more workers or out-of-hours labour to complete the job.

What Is the Most Expensive Part of a House Renovation?

As a homeowner budgeting for a renovation, you’re going to want to understand what the most costly part is - and the answer usually depends on the scale of the project. 

In most cases, the biggest expenses include:

Kitchens and bathrooms

These are typically the costliest rooms to renovate because they involve plumbing, tiling, and electrical work. 

A standard new, mid-range kitchen can cost between £10,000 and £20,000, while a high-end installation ranges from £25,000 to £50,000.

Structural changes

Removing walls, adding extensions, or converting lofts often involves significant building work, planning approval, and professional design input.

Plumbing and electrics

Rewiring an entire house can cost £4,000–£10,000 depending on size, while a full re-plumb may add another £5,000–£12,000.

Energy-efficient upgrades

Installing new windows, roof insulation, and heating systems increases upfront costs but often reduces long-term bills.

If you’re working to a fixed budget, it’s wise to prioritise these areas early in the planning process to prevent surprises later.

Planning Tips to Stay Within Budget When Renovating Your Home

A successful renovation project starts with clear planning and realistic expectations. 

Here are a few practical ways to manage costs effectively:

1. Set a detailed budget and stick to it.

Include everything from materials and labour to contingency costs, which should be at least 10–15% of the total.

2. Prioritise essential work

Focus on structural integrity, safety, and energy efficiency before cosmetic improvements.

3. Get multiple quotes

Prices can vary significantly between contractors. Always compare at least three quotes and make sure each includes a full breakdown of materials and labour.

4. Schedule work logically

Plan the order of tasks carefully - for example, complete electrical and plumbing work before plastering or flooring. Poor sequencing can lead to rework and wasted costs.

5. Consider professional project management

Working with an experienced renovation company like Corsol ensures every stage runs smoothly, with one team coordinating trades, schedules, and budgets.

Final Thoughts

The cost of a full house renovation very much depends on your home, your goals, and your finish level, but for most homeowners, a complete renovation typically falls between £40,000 and £100,000.

Taking time to plan your renovation properly, choose reliable contractors, and budget realistically can save thousands in the long run. 

With careful management, your renovation can transform your property and add lasting value.

If you’re planning a home renovation, we can help you design and manage the process from start to finish - ensuring quality workmanship and cost transparency every step of the way.

FAQs

Is £40,000 Enough to Renovate a House in the UK?

For many homes, £40,000 can cover a moderate renovation, especially if the structure and systems are in good condition. This budget might include a new kitchen, a bathroom refit, basic rewiring, redecoration, and new flooring throughout.

However, once you start making structural changes, such as knocking down walls, extending, or upgrading plumbing, costs will rise. If the house is older or in poor condition, £40,000 may only stretch to partial updates rather than a full renovation.

Can You Renovate a House for £20,000 in the UK?

Renovating a home for £20,000 is possible, but it’s usually suited to smaller properties or projects that rely heavily on DIY work. With this budget, you may be able to redecorate, fit a simple kitchen or bathroom, and update flooring, but not carry out major repairs or structural improvements. 

To make £20,000 go further, focus on the essentials first and use cost-saving strategies such as choosing affordable finishes, reusing existing fittings, or sourcing reclaimed materials. 

Completing straightforward jobs yourself, like painting or fitting skirting boards, can also reduce labour costs. This careful, hands-on approach can make a home feel refreshed and functional without exceeding your budget.