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 Swansea?
In Swansea, 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. Building costs in Wales run about 8% below the UK average, and the figures for Swansea are adjusted to reflect that. 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 main things that change the cost:
- Structural and damp repairs
- Finishes
- Whether you live in during the work
- Windows and doors
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a house renovation in Swansea?
The approval route for Swansea is set by planning law in Wales. In Wales internal renovation usually does not need planning permission unless the house is listed. Notifiable work must meet building regulations.
Building regulations in Wales are set by the Welsh Government. Approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
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:
- Condition survey and scope of works
- Decoration
- Joinery, doors and floors
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Rewiring and heating upgrades
- Plastering and boarding
How long does it take?
Allow 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 Swansea
Terraced houses in Welsh towns often have narrow plots, which suits rear and side return extensions and rear dormers.
Projects in Swansea (SA1) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 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 Swansea
Do I need planning permission for a house renovation in Swansea?
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.
Do you renovate listed buildings?
Yes, with listed building consent and appropriate materials.
Who approves a house renovation in Swansea?
Planning matters in Swansea go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
How much does a house renovation cost in Swansea?
In Swansea, 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.