Renovating Your London Home? Here’s What You Need to Know
Whether you’ve bought a fixer-upper in Fulham or you’re transforming a tired terraced house in Ealing, a full house renovation is one of the most exciting — and challenging — projects a homeowner can take on.
- But what exactly does the process involve?
- How long will it take?
- And what should you expect along the way?
In this guide, we break down the full renovation process from start to finish, with a focus on London homes, where planning, logistics, and finishes can be uniquely complex.
The Full House Renovation Process (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Planning & Concept Design
Timeframe: 2–4 weeks
This is where ideas start to take shape. You’ll meet with your renovation team (or architect/designer) to:
- Assess the current condition of your home
- Define your goals: layout changes, extensions, reconfigurations
- Explore design options
- Agree a ballpark budget
Pro Tip: Work with a design-and-build team early — they’ll help you get realistic about cost and timing before committing to big decisions.
Step 2: Surveys, Drawings & Permissions
Timeframe: 4–8 weeks (can vary by borough)
Depending on the project, you may need:
- Measured survey
- Architectural drawings
- Structural engineering calculations
- Planning permission or permitted development approval
- Party wall agreements (especially in terraced/semi-detached homes)
In West London boroughs like Kensington, Hammersmith or Richmond, planning can take longer due to conservation area restrictions.
Step 3: Strip-Out & Structural Works
Timeframe: 2–6 weeks
Once everything is approved and scheduled, the real work begins.
This phase includes:
- Removing internal walls, ceilings, or floors
- Steelwork installation for open-plan layouts
- Any rear/side extensions or loft conversions
- Rewiring and plumbing first-fix
It’s noisy, dusty, and not the time to live on-site (unless you enjoy chaos and kettles in the garage).
Step 4: Mechanical & Electrical (M&E)
Timeframe: 2–4 weeks
Once the structure is sound, we install:
- Electrical wiring
- Plumbing & heating systems
- Underfloor heating (if applicable)
- Smart home integrations
Now’s the time to think about lighting, AV, Wi-Fi zones, and heating zones.
Step 5: Plastering, Flooring & Second Fix
Timeframe: 3–6 weeks
Your home starts to look like a home again. This phase includes:
- Plastering and making good
- Floor insulation and screeds
- Fitting of doors, skirtings, architraves
- Installing bathrooms, kitchens, radiators
All finishes must be signed off early to avoid delays — tiles, taps, handles, paint colours, etc.
Step 6: Decoration & Final Touches
Timeframe: 2–4 weeks
The finishing stage includes:
- Painting & decorating
- Lighting installation
- Final floor finishes (timber, carpet, tile)
- Kitchen worktops & splashbacks
- Final snagging walk-through
How Long Does a Full House Renovation in London Take?
Every home is different, but here’s a typical timeline:
| Home Type | Approx. Timeframe |
|---|---|
| 2-bed terrace | 12–16 weeks |
| 3–4 bed semi-detached | 16–22 weeks |
| Large detached / complex | 6–9 months+ |
Projects in central and West London often take longer due to access restrictions, conservation rules, or tight planning controls.
How Much Does It Cost?
As of 2025, expect to budget:
- £1,800 – £3,000/m² for full refurbishments
- £100,000 – £300,000+ for a mid-to-high-end renovation
- Additional costs for extensions, basements, or specialist finishes
