What is a house renovation?

A house renovation brings an older or tired home up to date. It can include rewiring, a new heating system, replastering, new floors, windows, kitchens and bathrooms, and changes to the layout. A full renovation is often combined with an extension or loft conversion.
How much does a house renovation cost in Acton?
In Acton, a house renovation typically costs £1,150–£2,350 per m² for a medium to full renovation, including VAT at 20% (5% may apply to homes empty for two years or more). For a typical 90 m² project that is roughly £103,500–£211,500. Building costs in London run about 30% above the UK average, and the figures for Acton are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (63 m²) | £72,500–£148,000 |
| Typical project (90 m²) | £103,500–£211,500 |
| Larger project (126 m²) | £145,000–£296,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,150–£2,350 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Extent of rewiring and replumbing
- Structural and damp repairs
- Whether you live in during the work
- Finishes
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a house renovation in Acton?
Approvals for a house renovation in Acton follow the rules for England. In England internal renovation usually does not need planning permission unless the house is listed, when listed building consent covers internal work too. Notifiable work such as rewiring, structural changes, new windows and heating must meet building regulations.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
On a typical house renovation we handle:
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Decoration
- Plastering and boarding
- Joinery, doors and floors
- Structural repairs and damp treatment
- Condition survey and scope of works
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 8 to 20 weeks on site depending on scope. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Acton
Many London boroughs have conservation areas and detailed design guides, so early design advice saves time at the planning stage.
Our Acton coverage includes postcode districts W3, and we also work in nearby places such as Chiswick, Hammersmith and Willesden.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about house renovations in Acton
Can I live in the house during a renovation?
For light work, yes. For a full renovation, most clients move out for some or all of the job.
Do you build house renovations in Acton?
Yes. We build house renovations across Acton, including postcodes W3. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a house renovation cost in Acton?
In Acton, a house renovation typically costs £1,150–£2,350 per m² for a medium to full renovation, including VAT at 20% (5% may apply to homes empty for two years or more). A typical 90 m² project comes to roughly £103,500–£211,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Is VAT reduced on renovations?
Usually not; the standard 20% rate applies. A reduced 5% rate can apply when renovating a home that has been empty for at least two years.
Do you renovate listed buildings?
Yes, with listed building consent and appropriate materials.
