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
