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 Gwent?
In Gwent, a house renovation typically costs £850–£1,650 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 £76,500–£148,500. That range is adjusted for Wales, where domestic building work typically costs around 8% below the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (63 m²) | £53,500–£104,000 |
| Typical project (90 m²) | £76,500–£148,500 |
| Larger project (126 m²) | £107,000–£208,000 |
| Rate per m² | £850–£1,650 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Whether you live in during the work
- Structural and damp repairs
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Windows and doors
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 Gwent?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Wales. In Wales internal renovation usually does not need planning permission unless the house is listed. Notifiable work must meet building regulations.
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies in Wales, so notices must be served before work on a shared wall, on the boundary, or excavation close to a neighbour’s foundations.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Structural repairs and damp treatment
- Rewiring and heating upgrades
- Decoration
- Plastering and boarding
- Condition survey and scope of works
- Joinery, doors and floors
How long does it take?
Expect 8 to 20 weeks on site depending on scope. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Gwent
Terraced houses in Welsh towns often have narrow plots, which suits rear and side return extensions and rear dormers.
Towns we cover in Gwent include Newport, Cwmbran, Pontypool, Ebbw Vale, Risca and Abergavenny.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed 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 Gwent
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.
Who approves a house renovation in Gwent?
Planning matters in Gwent go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How long does a full renovation take?
Typically 8 to 20 weeks on site depending on the size of the house and scope.
How much does a house renovation cost in Gwent?
In Gwent, a house renovation typically costs £850–£1,650 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 £76,500–£148,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do I need planning permission for a house renovation in Gwent?
In Wales internal renovation usually does not need planning permission unless the house is listed. Notifiable work must meet building regulations.
Does a renovation need building regulations approval?
Some parts do, such as rewiring, structural changes, new windows and heating systems. We handle notifications.
