Free renovation budget planner
Add rooms, choose your finish level, toggle individual items on and off, adjust sizes — and see a detailed cost breakdown instantly. Based on real UK pricing for 2026/27.
Last updated April 2026 · Free to use · No sign-up
Renovation Budget Planner
9 room types, 3 finish levels, 60+ individual work items — fully customisable
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UK renovation costs at a glance
Renovating a property in the UK can cost anywhere from a few thousand pounds for a cosmetic refresh to six figures for a full structural overhaul. The biggest factor is what you are doing — a new kitchen and bathroom in a 3-bed semi is a very different project from a loft conversion and rear extension on a Victorian terrace.
The cost estimates in this tool are based on UK national averages for 2026/27. Prices in London and the South East tend to run 15–30% above these figures. Scotland, Wales, and the North of England are often 10–20% below. Always get at least three quotes from local tradespeople before committing.
Most common renovation projects and typical costs
| Project | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| New kitchen (mid-range) | £10,000 | £18,000 |
| New bathroom (mid-range) | £6,000 | £12,000 |
| Loft conversion | £30,000 | £60,000 |
| Single-storey extension (20m²) | £30,000 | £50,000 |
| Garage conversion | £10,000 | £20,000 |
| New boiler | £2,500 | £4,500 |
| Full rewire (3-bed) | £3,500 | £6,000 |
| New roof | £5,000 | £12,000 |
| Double glazing (full house) | £4,000 | £10,000 |
| Full room redecoration | £500 | £1,500 |
How to budget for a renovation
Start by listing every room you want to renovate. For each room, decide on a finish level — budget, mid-range, or premium — and the specific work items you need. The planner above lets you do this in detail. Then add a contingency of at least 10% (15–20% for older properties). Unexpected costs are not a risk — they are a certainty.
If the total is higher than you expected, prioritise. Kitchens and bathrooms tend to add the most value relative to their cost. Structural work (extensions, loft conversions) adds the most absolute value but costs significantly more. Cosmetic improvements (decorating, flooring, garden) are the cheapest way to make a property feel different.
Which renovations add the most value?
According to UK estate agents, the renovations that consistently add more value than they cost are: new kitchens, new bathrooms, loft conversions, and extensions. A well-executed kitchen renovation can return 70–100% of its cost in added property value. A loft conversion typically adds 10–20% to the value of a house. But be careful not to over-improve — spending £40,000 on a kitchen in a £200,000 house is unlikely to return the investment if the street average is £220,000.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a full house renovation cost in the UK?
A full house renovation typically costs between £20,000 and £80,000 depending on the size of the property and the scope of work. A light renovation (decorating, flooring, new kitchen) might cost £20,000–£40,000 for a 3-bed house. A major renovation including structural work, rewiring, replumbing, and full interior refit can reach £60,000–£100,000 or more.
How much does a kitchen renovation cost in the UK?
A budget kitchen costs £5,000–£8,000 including units, worktops, and fitting. A mid-range kitchen runs £10,000–£18,000 with better materials and appliances. A premium kitchen with bespoke cabinetry and stone worktops typically costs £20,000–£40,000.
How much does a loft conversion cost?
A loft conversion typically costs £30,000–£60,000 in the UK. A Velux (roof window) conversion is at the lower end, while a dormer or mansard conversion costs more. This includes structural work, insulation, electrics, plastering, and a staircase.
How much contingency should I budget?
Most builders recommend 10–15% of your total budget. For older properties or projects involving structural work, 15–20% is safer. Unexpected issues like damp, asbestos, or outdated wiring are common once walls are opened up.
Does renovating add value to a house?
Yes, but the return varies. Kitchens and bathrooms typically add more value than they cost. Loft conversions and extensions can add 10–20% to a property's value. Cosmetic improvements offer a good return for their cost. Over-improving beyond the street average can reduce your return on investment.
Is this tool really free?
Yes — completely free, no sign-up, no email required. ValuQ provides free tools to help homeowners make better decisions about their property. If you are thinking about selling, we also offer free, anonymous valuations from local estate agents.
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