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 Trowbridge?
In Trowbridge, a house renovation typically costs £900–£1,850 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 £81,000–£166,500. Prices in the South West sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Trowbridge reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (63 m²) | £56,500–£116,500 |
| Typical project (90 m²) | £81,000–£166,500 |
| Larger project (126 m²) | £113,500–£233,000 |
| Rate per m² | £900–£1,850 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Structural and damp repairs
- Extent of rewiring and replumbing
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Finishes
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a house renovation in Trowbridge?
Approvals for a house renovation in Trowbridge 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.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
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:
- Plastering and boarding
- Condition survey and scope of works
- Structural repairs and damp treatment
- Rewiring and heating upgrades
- Joinery, doors and floors
- Kitchens and bathrooms
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 8 to 20 weeks on site depending on scope. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Trowbridge
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
If your home is in Trowbridge or close by in Melksham, Bath and Frome, a free home visit is the first step.
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
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 Trowbridge
How much does a house renovation cost in Trowbridge?
In Trowbridge, a house renovation typically costs £900–£1,850 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 £81,000–£166,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
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 long does a house renovation take in Trowbridge?
Typically 8 to 20 weeks on site depending on scope. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
