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 Neath?
In Neath, 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. Prices across Wales are typically 8% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Neath. 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:
- Windows and doors
- Finishes
- Structural and damp repairs
- Kitchens and bathrooms
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a house renovation in Neath?
Here is how the rules work for a house renovation 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Decoration
- Rewiring and heating upgrades
- Plastering and boarding
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Condition survey and scope of works
- Structural repairs and damp treatment
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 8 to 20 weeks on site depending on scope. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 6 to 12 weeks, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Neath
Wales has many terraced valley streets, stone cottages and post-war estates, so extension designs are shaped by slopes, materials and local character.
Projects in Neath (SA11) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
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 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 sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about house renovations in Neath
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.
How much does a house renovation cost in Neath?
In Neath, 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.
How long does a house renovation take in Neath?
Typically 8 to 20 weeks on site depending on scope. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
Do you renovate listed buildings?
Yes, with listed building consent and appropriate materials.
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 I need planning permission for a house renovation in Neath?
In Wales internal renovation usually does not need planning permission unless the house is listed. Notifiable work must meet building regulations.
