Thinking about renovating? Whether it's an older house that needs bringing up to date or a full makeover of the home you live in, your house renovation cost depends on the size of the job, the state of the property and the finish you want. Most of the work happens indoors: new kitchens and bathrooms, rewiring, plumbing, plastering and insulation.

A renovation is also the right time for energy upgrades. You might extend into the garden and install a patio cover, insulate the loft, or replace the window frames and fit double glazing at the same time.

Many people renovate the whole house in one go, ideally before moving in, because the work creates a lot of dust and disruption. Set aside a contingency in your budget for surprises behind walls and under floors, and in older homes have suspect materials checked for asbestos before anything is removed.

House Renovation Cost: Working With a Contractor

For a full renovation, a main contractor is usually the best place to start. They can plan the project with you, coordinate the trades and make sure the pieces fit together. What affects the price: the scope of work, structural changes, the condition of wiring and plumbing, materials and finishes, and access to the site. Through Fixmycrib you can request free quotes from contractors and compare them. Ask for an itemised quote so you can see where the money goes.

Staircase Renovation: Options & Prices

There are several ways to renovate a staircase, from new treads and risers to a cladding system or a fresh coat of paint. Choose a material and style that match your floors and doors. If you're doing it yourself, pick a system that's easy to work with; for structural repairs or a new staircase, use a specialist. You can request quotes from suppliers in your area.

Wall Insulation: Options & Prices

Insulating your walls keeps heat in, so your home feels warmer and your heating bills drop. If the walls are being stripped back anyway, it's a good moment to do it.

Patio Cover: Options & Prices

A patio cover gives you shade on hot days and shelter from wind and rain, so you use the garden more. A renovation can also include an extension or a garden room. Check local rules on size and height first, then request quotes from suppliers in your area.

uPVC Window Frames: Options & Prices

Old wooden frames that need constant repainting? uPVC frames need very little maintenance and, with double glazing, help keep heat in. Ask installers about the U-value, the warranty and how they'll seal the frames. Request free uPVC window frame quotes to compare prices.

Damp Proofing: Options & Prices

Older houses often have damp in cellars, walls or around the roof. Find and fix the cause before any cosmetic work: a plasterer can restore walls and ceilings, but only once the damp is solved. Have a damp-proofing specialist inspect the problem first. Request free damp-proofing quotes to compare.

Some jobs are fine to do yourself. Painting, for example, or simple flooring. Anything structural, electrical, gas-related or at height should be done by qualified professionals, and some work may need building approval. You can also have the remodelling done for you and do the finishing yourself.

Plan the project before you start and get several quotes for the parts you're handing over. When comparing contractors, check reviews and past work, ask about insurance, get a written quote with a clear scope and payment schedule, and agree how extra work will be handled. Avoid paying large sums up front.