Home Renovation Cost Calculator
Room-by-room estimates with real 2026 UK prices. Select your region, pick rooms, choose scope — instant estimate.
Understanding Home Renovation Costs in the UK
Renovating a home is one of the most significant investments you can make. Whether refreshing a tired kitchen, converting a loft, or gutting an entire property, understanding realistic costs before you start prevents budget overruns and helps you prioritise where your money creates the most value.
What Drives Renovation Costs?
Three main factors determine what you pay: location, scope of work, and quality of finishes. A kitchen refit in Manchester might cost 25-30% less than the same job in London. Labour typically accounts for 40-50% of renovation costs. This calculator uses real 2026 trade rates averaged across thousands of UK jobs.
Which Renovations Add the Most Value?
Loft conversions consistently deliver the best return, often adding 20-25% to property value. Kitchen and bathroom upgrades typically return 50-80% of their cost. Cosmetic changes like paint and flooring often exceed 200% return because the cost is low relative to the freshness they bring.
Getting Accurate Quotes
This calculator gives a realistic ballpark with regional adjustments. For precise quotes, get at least three from local tradespeople. When comparing, ensure they all cover the same scope.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a full house renovation cost in the UK?
A full house renovation typically costs between £20,000 and £80,000+ depending on property size, location, and scope. London and the South East are 20-40% more expensive than the North. A basic cosmetic refresh of a 3-bed semi starts around £15,000, while a full structural renovation with kitchen and bathrooms can exceed £60,000.
How much does a kitchen renovation cost UK?
Between £2,000 for a cosmetic refresh (paint, handles, worktop) and £25,000+ for a full refit with new units, appliances, plumbing and electrics. The average mid-range kitchen renovation is £8,000-£12,000.
How much does a bathroom renovation cost UK?
Between £800 for cosmetic updates and £12,000+ for a full luxury renovation. The average bathroom refit is £4,000-£7,000 including new suite, tiling, flooring, and plumbing.
How much does a loft conversion cost UK?
Between £20,000 for a basic Velux and £70,000+ for a mansard conversion. The average dormer is £35,000-£55,000 and typically adds 20-25% to your property value — often the best-returning renovation you can do.
Which renovations add the most value?
Loft conversions return 100-125% of cost. Extensions return 75-100%. Kitchens return 50-80%. Bathrooms return 60-70%. Cosmetic refreshes (paint, flooring) often return 200%+ because cost is low relative to perceived value uplift.
Should I renovate or move house?
Moving costs (stamp duty, legal fees, agent fees, removal) typically total 8-12% of your new property value. For a £300,000 house, that is £24,000-£36,000 just in transaction costs. Many renovations cost less than moving and add more value.
How long does a full house renovation take?
A full house renovation typically takes 8-16 weeks. Kitchen refit: 2-4 weeks. Bathroom: 1-2 weeks. Loft conversion: 6-10 weeks. Extension: 10-16 weeks. Cosmetic refresh throughout: 2-4 weeks.
Do I need planning permission for renovation?
Most internal renovations do not require planning permission. Loft conversions are usually permitted development unless in a conservation area. Extensions up to certain sizes fall under permitted development. Always check with your local council before structural work.