Cost & Budget
How Much Does a Whole-Home Renovation Cost?
Renovating an entire house is a different undertaking to a single room. Here is what shapes the cost of a whole-home renovation.
MJM Joinery & Building ·
A whole-home renovation brings an entire property up to date in one coordinated project — structure, services, layout and finishes. Because so much is involved, the cost depends heavily on the condition of the house and the scope you choose.
What "whole-home" usually means
A comprehensive renovation commonly includes some or all of:
- Internal reconfiguration and structural alterations
- A full rewire and new heating system
- New plumbing, bathrooms and kitchen
- Roofing repairs or replacement
- Replastering and making good
- Repair or replacement of windows
- Flooring, joinery and decoration throughout
The biggest factors in cost
The condition of the property
A house that has been well maintained needs less work than one that has not been updated for decades. Older properties can hide issues — failing roof timbers, damp, outdated wiring or lead pipework — that only become visible once work begins.
Period features
Edinburgh has a remarkable stock of Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian homes. Retaining and repairing cornicing, shutters, sash windows and original joinery takes skill and time, but it is often what gives the home its value and character.
Structural changes
Removing walls, moving staircases or creating new openings requires engineering and structural work. The more the layout changes, the greater the cost.
Services
Most whole-home renovations include a full rewire and a new heating system. If you are considering heat pumps, improved insulation or other energy upgrades, these should be planned from the outset.
Specification
Kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and joinery can vary enormously. Being clear early on about the level of finish you want is essential for an accurate budget.
Renovation combined with extension
Many projects combine a renovation with an extension or attic conversion. Doing the work together often makes sense: the whole home is designed as one, and you only live through the disruption once.
Living arrangements
For a full renovation, most clients move out for some or all of the programme. This allows the work to proceed safely and efficiently, and should be factored into your overall budget.
Setting the budget
- Commission a proper survey of the property's condition
- Work with your architect to define scope and priorities
- Request an itemised proposal so you can see where the money goes
- Hold a realistic contingency — especially in older properties
To discuss a renovation, read about our home renovations in Edinburgh or start your project.
