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 Ballymena?
In Ballymena, a house renovation typically costs £750–£1,550 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 £67,500–£139,500. Building costs in Northern Ireland run about 14% below the UK average, and the figures for Ballymena are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (63 m²) | £47,000–£97,500 |
| Typical project (90 m²) | £67,500–£139,500 |
| Larger project (126 m²) | £94,500–£195,500 |
| Rate per m² | £750–£1,550 |
What moves the price most:
- Windows and doors
- Finishes
- Whether you live in during the work
- Structural and damp repairs
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 Ballymena?
Before anything is built in Ballymena, we confirm which approvals apply in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland structural and notifiable renovation work needs building control approval; listed homes need listed building consent.
In Northern Ireland building control approval comes from the council, usually through a full plans application or a building notice, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Rewiring and heating upgrades
- Building control for notifiable work
- Decoration
- Condition survey and scope of works
- Plastering and boarding
- Kitchens and bathrooms
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 8 to 20 weeks on site depending on scope. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Ballymena
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Ballymena sits in County Antrim, about 23 miles north-west of Belfast. We cover the whole of Ballymena, including postcodes BT42, BT43 and BT44.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about house renovations in Ballymena
How much does a house renovation cost in Ballymena?
In Ballymena, a house renovation typically costs £750–£1,550 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 £67,500–£139,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Does a renovation need building regulations approval?
Some parts do, such as rewiring, structural changes, new windows and heating systems. We handle notifications.
How long does a full renovation take?
Typically 8 to 20 weeks on site depending on the size of the house and scope.
Who approves a house renovation in Ballymena?
Planning matters in Ballymena go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Do I need planning permission for a house renovation in Ballymena?
In Northern Ireland structural and notifiable renovation work needs building control approval; listed homes need listed building consent.
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.
