Interior, Exterior, or Both

When considering renovation budgets, identifying whether it’s an interior project, exterior, or a combination of both is very helpful.

Interior renovation

A complete interior renovation, sometimes referred to as an interior refurbishment, generally involves replacing or updating floors, walls, ceilings, kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing, and electrics. This goes further than mere redecoration.

Using industry data and past experiences, simpler interior makeovers might cost £650 per m², while large or high-spec refurbs can approach £2,000 per m². On average, expect around £1,100 per m² to cover all project costs, including materials you may purchase directly. Actual totals vary greatly depending on preferences and site conditions. In Greenwich, period homes often boast original timber floors or fireplaces that can be restored during an interior overhaul, preserving the area’s historic charm.

Exterior renovation

An exterior renovation can entail:

• Drainage adjustments
• Improved insulation
• Re-pointing brick
• Re-rendering or cladding
• Roof overhauls
• Upgrading windows and doors

Prices differ widely, based on the property’s size, materials, storey count, and any repair work. Typically, £400–£700 per m² (of wall area) is a good benchmark. More modest schemes might be £250–£400, while premium or complex approaches may exceed £700–£1,200+ per m². In Greenwich, some Georgian or Victorian façades require particular care when re-pointing or repainting to retain their heritage appearance near landmarks like the Royal Observatory.

Interior and Exterior

Refurbishing both interior and exterior drives up total expenditure. Projects merging the two typically start near £1,500 per m², rising to around £3,500 per m² if especially intricate. Nevertheless, it’s usually cheaper than a brand-new build, since core structural parts remain. Industry data shows new-build houses in the UK typically cost about £2,600 per m², including VAT—a useful baseline for comparing.

Complete Home Renovation in Greenwich

Renovating a home in Greenwich often means blending modern comforts with the borough’s rich maritime and architectural heritage. Greenwich homeowners often create open-plan living-dining areas to capitalise on views of the Thames or local green spaces.

Properties close to Greenwich Park or the famous Cutty Sark area frequently have listed status or sit in conservation zones, so owners should check in early with the council if planning noticeable changes to external features. That said, many interiors can be upgraded without requiring planning permission, enabling you to add contemporary kitchens, energy-efficient systems, or reconfigured layouts.

Local labour costs do lean somewhat higher than national averages, reflecting Greater London pricing, yet can be slightly more affordable than central boroughs. You might also find specialist builders adept at working with listed or older housing, a plus given Greenwich’s varied building stock. Where re-pointing older brick is needed, these skilled contractors can match the traditional mortar style, preserving that unmistakable Greenwich look.

If you own a mid-century house near Eltham or a grand Georgian terrace in West Greenwich, upgrading insulation or fitting new windows typically yields noticeable benefits—both comfort and property value can climb. Many residents also choose to incorporate sustainable heating solutions, aligning with local efforts to reduce carbon footprints. Whether you’re near the bustling town centre or a quieter residential area, Greenwich provides a mix of historical elegance and modern living potential, making a carefully executed renovation project highly worthwhile.

What Drives the Cost in a Complete Renovation?

While the per-square-metre figures provide a broad guideline, multiple factors can alter final expenses significantly.

Size

The size of your project will quite naturally be the most important factor influencing the cost.

Complexity
The building’s layout and any special design elements or structural quirks also affect your renovation budget. Homes with multiple bathrooms or distinctive period details may be pricier to upgrade.

Number of bathrooms
According to the Federation of Master Builders, a complete bathroom refurbishment (fixtures included) typically lies between £20,000 and £32,000, so every extra wet room pushes per-m² costs upward. Kitchens likewise raise average expenses more than simple living areas.

Structural modifications
Should the contractor handle load-bearing walls or other structural supports, the bill climbs. Such modifications generally require professional design and local authority approval, increasing total expenditure.

Materials
Your choice of finishes for bathrooms, kitchens, and flooring can vary drastically in price, although fundamental building materials show smaller differences in cost.

Choice of contractor
Finally, whom you select to do the work significantly affects both cost and outcome. Seek multiple quotes, check references, and ensure your chosen firm holds proper accreditation. TrustedBuilders, the Federation of Master Builders, or TrustMark can help identify reputable services.

What's Included in the Contractor's Quote?

Defining precisely what the builder’s quote covers is key at the outset. Generally, it includes all labour and standard materials needed for the refurbishment, but “finishing materials” might be left aside.

Finishing materials include components like kitchen cabinets, bathroom suites, taps, toilets, flooring, and tiles. As described, these can show huge price differences. A straightforward kitchen might cost about £5,000, whereas custom designs may leap into the tens of thousands. Kitchen fitting typically lands around £1,000–£3,000 if arranged separately.

Tiles and flooring also come under finishing. Keeping an eye out for promotions or capitalising on trade discount deals can trim expenses. Tiling might begin around £20 per m², climbing for premium brands.

Bathrooms follow a similarly large range. While it’s possible to fit a very small bathroom for £1,000 at a basic level, many invest more for extra comfort. Your contractor’s quote generally includes installation labour for these items.

In Greenwich, some people pick quality mid-range finishes balancing elegance and practicality, especially if they anticipate future resale in a competitive market.

Cost Breakdown for Individual Elements

We touched on the per-m² pricing for a complete refurbishment. Below is a sample breakdown from a 230 m² detached house fully renovated inside and out. Actual figures differ, but this offers an indicative framework:

Price from contractor (labour + materials):

• Windows (20 units + delivery): £27,000
• Creating a new window opening: £3,200
• Upgrading external cladding + insulation: £33,000
• Replacing roof: £21,500
• Drainage work: £12,800
• Bathroom (excluding tiles/fixtures, incl. plumber): £19,000
• WC 1 (with plumber): £3,600
• WC 2 (with plumber): £3,600
• Utility room (plumber): £10,800
• New plumbing overall: £18,400
• External/patio doors: £4,800
• Balanced ventilation system: £9,600
• Floor/wall/ceiling surfaces: £41,600
• Internal doors: £6,000
• Architraves, linings, transitions: £2,000
• Electrical (whole house): £29,600
• Single attached garage: £14,400
• Waste disposal: £4,800
• Demolition/site prep/scaffolding: £24,000
• Interior designer: £6,000
• Architect: £4,000
  Total (Contractor): £300,800

Homeowner’s own purchases:

• Tiles (bathroom, WC, utility, hallway): £4,800
• Bathroom fixtures (1 bath + 2 WCs): £6,400
• Kitchen units: £24,000
• Flooring: £10,000
  Subtotal: £45,200

Grand total: £346,000

Hence, the project landed at about £1,500 per m², slightly below average for a mixed interior-exterior job.

Building Regulations for a Complete Home Renovation (UK)

A substantial home makeover must satisfy Building Regulations, ensuring it’s safe, energy-efficient, and lawful. Always contact your local Building Control office before beginning work.

When Do You Need Building Regulations Approval?

• Structural alterations – Removing or adapting load-bearing walls, chimney breasts, or adding openings (Part A). A structural engineer typically supplies calculations.
• Bathrooms + plumbing – Adding new bathrooms or relocating pipes must meet Part H (drainage) and Part F (ventilation).
• Electrical – Rewiring or adding circuits in kitchens/bathrooms must align with Part P (Electrical Safety). A qualified electrician or Building Control sign-off is required.
• Heating – New or replacement boilers, fireplaces, and radiators must comply with Parts J (combustion) and L (efficiency). Gas Safe certification covers boiler installations.
• Windows/doors – Replacements must meet Part L (thermal performance) and Part K (safety glazing). FENSA or CERTASS typically handle these details.
• Garage/basement conversions – Turning these areas into liveable rooms always needs approval, addressing insulation, fire safety, damp-proofing, and ventilation.

In Greenwich, basement or sub-level spaces around the riverfront can require careful checks to handle potential water seepage or damp.

Additional Considerations

• Fire Safety (Part B) – Large open-plan designs often need special fire doors or alarms for safe escape corridors.
• Ventilation (Part F) – Bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms require extractor fans.
• Insulation & Energy (Part L) – Big renovations should update insulation for roofs, walls, or windows to current standards.
• Soundproofing (Part E) – Converting or splitting properties may involve acoustic insulation rules.

You can file a Full Plans application or use a Building Notice for simpler tasks. A completion certificate arrives once all checks are passed.

Do I Need Planning Permission?

Planning consent is distinct from Building Regulations. Typically, internal refurbishments won’t need formal permission unless they:

• Listed buildings – Alterations affecting a listed building’s character require Listed Building Consent.
• External changes – Adding windows, re-roofing, or replacing cladding may need approval, especially in conservation areas.
• Change of use – Switching from a single dwelling to flats or residential to commercial.
• Extensions/loft conversions – While internal changes generally evade planning, outward expansions or raising roofs need a formal application.

Throughout Greater London, certain boroughs impose local guidelines on front porches or roof dormers, so verifying rules in your locale is wise.

Ordinary internal modifications—renovating kitchens, bathrooms, or redecoration—rarely call for permission. However, always confirm with local planning if unsure.

How to Find the Right Professionals

Opting for qualified, trustworthy trades is essential for a smooth renovation. Although some dubious firms operate, many reputable building contractors handle comprehensive refurbishments successfully. TrustMark and the Federation of Master Builders list approved members. TrustedBuilders checks financial data, accreditation, and references to link you with capable experts.

Organisation of the work relies on your preference: some owners coordinate each trade individually, others pick a main contractor to oversee it all. The latter approach simplifies communication, offering a single point of contact. If you decide to split tasks, you’ll assume the main project management role.

In Greater London, community forums and recommendation sites help locate vetted builders well-versed in varying local styles and council processes.

Checklist for Home Renovation

1. Define the scope and your refurbishment goals
2. Explore financing methods
3. Construct a realistic budget, allowing a contingency
4. Check the relevant Building Regulations
5. Determine if planning permission is necessary
6. Gather multiple quotes (at least three)
7. Verify references, credit history, and certifications
8. Hire accredited, dependable tradespeople
9. Decide on a feasible timeline
10. Remain communicative with contractors

No matter your approach, comparing quotes from different providers is vital. Inspect cost, references, and experience. With TrustedBuilders, you can find companies that meet high standards and fair prices, making your renovation far easier to manage.