Exterior or Interior, or Both?

It helps to categorise your project as interior, exterior, or a combined renovation to structure your budgeting.

Interior renovation 

An interior refurbishment typically includes re-flooring, updating walls and ceilings, renovating kitchens and bathrooms, and upgrading services like plumbing or electricity. This work goes further than basic decoration—it seeks a thorough renewal of the property’s core components.

Estimated Costs

Generally, figures start around £650 per m² for modest projects and rise up to £2,000 per m² for large-scale or premium endeavours. A common midpoint sits near £1,100 per m². These estimates incorporate labour, routine materials, and any standard site overheads, though final totals differ based on complexity and design preferences.

Exterior renovation

Exterior work could comprise:

• Drainage enhancements
• Boosting insulation
• Re-pointing or rendering external walls
• Changing or restoring the roof
• Updating windows and doors

Cost Estimates

Typically, expect £400–£700 per m² of external wall surface. Simpler tasks might cost only £250–£400 per m², while high-end or more intricate designs can surpass £700–£1,200 per m².

In Bromley, some classic suburban houses feature original brick or pebble-dash, both of which might need careful restoration.

Both interior and exterior

Attempting both facets simultaneously yields more extensive totals. All-inclusive remodels begin near £1,500 per m², scaling to £3,500 in higher-end cases. Nevertheless, refurbishing is still often less expensive than erecting a new build from scratch, since existing foundations remain. A new build home in the UK averages about £2,600 per m² including VAT, which serves as a reference for comparing large-scale renovations.

Complete Home Renovation in Bromley 

A property makeover in Bromley can prove a worthwhile investment, thanks to the borough’s blend of suburban charm and comparatively large house sizes. Many families move here for more space than they would find in central London, which often translates into potential for extensions, loft conversions, or garden-based expansions. Residents in Bromley regularly add rear kitchen extensions, turning smaller rooms into bright, open-plan cooking and dining spaces that suit modern family life

At the same time, Bromley’s well-established neighbourhoods range from Victorian terraces to post-war semis, meaning the precise scope of renovations can vary greatly.

Renovation Cost in Bromley

Renovation prices in Bromley typically rank in the medium-to-upper level for London. While labour rates can be cheaper than in very central districts, the area’s popularity and higher property values do push up quotes above the national average. If your house lies in a conservation area—like around Bromley Town Centre, Shortlands, or parts of Chislehurst—you may need local planning approval for certain external changes, such as altering original rooflines or windows.

Consider that many homeowners also take the opportunity to improve energy efficiency at the same time, installing better insulation, modern double glazing, or an energy-efficient boiler. This not only cuts bills but makes your property more attractive if you decide to sell later. 

Bromley Contractors

Always gather multiple quotes from Bromley-based contractors, comparing not just cost but also references and accreditation. Working with experienced local trades can smooth out the process, as they will likely be familiar with typical structural quirks of the borough’s housing stock. In the end, a properly executed renovation in Bromley can significantly enhance both your comfort and property value, making it an appealing long-term investment.

What Drives the Cost in a Complete Renovation?

While the earlier per-m² numbers set broad expectations, actual bills depend on:

1. Size
   Larger dwellings typically cost more in total, though unit costs can be marginally lower due to economies of scale.
2. Complexity
   Architectural quirks or a high number of bathrooms elevate labour and materials. When renovating older houses in Bromley, it’s common to find dated wiring or older plumbing that needs complete replacement to achieve modern safety standards.
3. Number of bathrooms
   Updating bathrooms is typically expensive, often landing between £20,000 and £32,000 for a full refurbishment.
4. Structural alterations
   Moving load-bearing walls or adding beams for open-plan living can require engineers and permissions, raising expenses.
5. Materials
   Mid-range fixtures cost far less than premium imported tiles or bespoke cabinets, granting you plenty of options to save money or choose finer materials, as you wish. Note that choosing the cheapest materials isn’t necessarily such a good idea but also that the most expensive materials aren’t necessarily the best. 
6. Contractor
   Prices differ substantially among firms, and thorough research can prevent excessive charges. Find a contractor that is well-experienced with the type of work your project entails - if it’s a local Bromley contractor with knowledge of Bromley houses, all the better. Through organisations like the Federation of Master Builders or TrustMark, you can find accredited contractors. TrustedBuilders will also help you find the right contractor for your specific project.

What’s Included in the Contractor’s Quote?

It is crucial to confirm which services and materials appear in the builder’s quoted price. Often, the quote covers:

• Labour: Building, carpentry, electrics, plumbing (unless stated otherwise).
• Basic materials: Plaster, timber, standard piping, wiring, adhesives.
• Project oversight: Coordinating different trades might be factored in.

However, “finishing materials” typically fall to the homeowner’s own budget:

• Kitchen units: Standard ranges can be modest in cost, while bespoke kitchens lead to higher bills.
• Flooring & tiles: Costs vary dramatically based on brand and style.
• Bathroom suites: From simple, economical sets to designer or customised pieces.

Cost Breakdown for Individual Elements

The example below outlines costs for a 230 m² detached property’s combined interior-exterior revamp. Actual figures vary per situation, but this can guide your understanding:

• Windows (20 changed + delivery): £27,000
• Creating a new external window opening: £3,200
• Re-cladding & insulating walls: £33,000
• Roof overhaul: £21,500
• Drainage: £12,800
• Bathroom (excl. tiles/fixtures, with plumber): £19,000
• WC 1 (incl. plumber): £3,600
• WC 2 (incl. plumber): £3,600
• Utility room (plumber included): £10,800
• All-new plumbing: £18,400
• External door + patio door: £4,800
• Balanced ventilation system: £9,600
• Surface finishes (floors, walls, ceilings): £41,600
• Internal doors: £6,000
• Trims, architraves, transitions: £2,000
• Electrical work for entire house: £29,600
• Attached single garage: £14,400
• Waste management: £4,800
• Demolition/setup/scaffolding: £24,000
• Interior designer: £6,000
• Architect: £4,000

Total contractor quote: £300,800

Owner’s own purchases:

• Tiles (bathroom, WC, utility, hallway): £4,800
• Bathroom fixtures (main bath + 2 WCs): £6,400
• Kitchen units: £24,000
• Chosen flooring: £10,000

Subtotal (Owner): £45,200
Grand total: £346,000

At about 230 m², that equates to £1,500 per m², modestly below average for a combined project.

Building Regulations for a Complete Home Renovation (UK)

Substantial renovation work must follow Building Regulations for safety, durability, and energy efficiency. Talk to Building Control in your local authority:

When Do You Need Building Regulations Approval?

• Structural modifications: Removing or changing main supports, beams, or integral walls.
• Bathrooms & plumbing: Adding a second bathroom or re-routing drains demands checks.
• Electrical: Rewiring or significant new circuits require Part P compliance.
• Heating: Boiler replacements or fitting new fireplaces must align with regulations on efficiency and safety.
• Windows/doors: Replacements must pass thermal and glazing standards.

Additional Considerations

• Fire safety: Fire-rated doors or alarms may be compulsory if you opt for open layouts.
• Ventilation: Must be assured in kitchens, bathrooms, utility spaces.
• Energy insulation: Part L often prompts upgrading insulation whenever you open up walls or roofs.
• Soundproofing: If converting a house to multiple flats, Part E addresses noise limitations.

Your local authority issues a completion certificate after the final inspection verifies code compliance. Bromley Building Control can offer clear guidance if you’re unsure about how new partitions or loft spaces fit with building rules.

Do I Need Planning Permission?

Planning permission deals primarily with outward appearance and usage changes, separately from Building Regulations:

• Listed building: Modifications impacting heritage character need Listed Building Consent.
• External alterations: Larger dormers, re-roofing, or cladding changes can require official approval.
• Change of use: Splitting a family home into flats or switching to commercial usage.
• Extensions or loft conversions: If beyond Permitted Development thresholds, an application must be submitted.

Some parts of Bromley, such as certain conservation areas in Shortlands or Farnborough, have extra rules on exterior modifications to retain historical aesthetics.

How to Find the Right Professionals

Quality and reliability of trades matter immensely. While there can be questionable operators, you can also find excellent pros:

• Accreditations: Check for TrustMark or Federation of Master Builders membership.
• References: Obtain testimonials or see past projects in person if possible.
• Coordination: Decide whether you want a main contractor orchestrating all trades or prefer direct hiring of each specialist yourself.

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Checklist for Home Renovation

1. Define what you aim to accomplish in your refurbishment.
2. Arrange finances or verify loan eligibility.
3. Draw up a clear budget with a 10% contingency.
4. Investigate needed Building Regulations.
5. Check if planning permission is relevant.
6. Seek at least three separate quotes.
7. Confirm references and the track record of each contractor.
8. Employ trustworthy, accredited trades.
9. Agree on a realistic timeline.
10. Communicate regularly so that issues are resolved promptly.

Following these steps helps you stay on target both in terms of costs and deadlines. By selecting the right people and planning carefully, you can transform your home efficiently and effectively.

A full renovation in Bromley, when done methodically, can enhance daily life and potentially increase property value. The area’s blend of suburban spaciousness and strong transport links makes it a desirable location for families. With the correct approach, your refurbishment can strike the ideal balance between functionality, modern style, and Bromley’s distinct character.