Full Property Renovations

A complete property renovation in Bath or Bristol typically takes 4-8 months, depending on the property size, complexity, and scope of works. For a standard 3-bedroom terraced house requiring comprehensive renovation, expect approximately 5-6 months from start to finish. Period properties in Bath, particularly listed buildings, often require additional time due to specialised conservation work and approval processes. The renovation timeline generally breaks down into phases: initial strip-out (2-3 weeks), structural works (4-8 weeks), first-fix services like plumbing and electrics (3-4 weeks), plastering and preparation (2-3 weeks), second-fix and finishing works (4-6 weeks), and final decorating and snagging (2-3 weeks). We develop detailed project schedules during the planning phase, identifying critical paths and potential challenges specific to your property to provide realistic timeframes for your renovation project.

Renovating a typical Bristol Victorian terrace house (3-bedroom, approximately 110-130m²) generally costs between £80,000 and £150,000 for a comprehensive renovation, depending on specification level and existing condition. This breaks down approximately as: structural works (£15,000-£30,000), new roof if required (£6,000-£12,000), complete rewiring (£5,000-£8,000), new plumbing and heating system (£7,000-£12,000), new bathroom (£6,000-£15,000), new kitchen (£8,000-£25,000), window replacements (£7,000-£15,000), plastering and preparation (£6,000-£10,000), flooring throughout (£5,000-£12,000), decoration (£4,000-£8,000), and external works (£5,000-£15,000). Properties requiring basement tanking, significant structural repairs, or in conservation areas may see higher costs. We provide detailed, itemised quotations following our initial survey, breaking down costs by room and trade to give complete transparency for your specific project.

For most full property renovations in Bath and Bristol, temporarily relocating is strongly recommended. While limited renovations might allow for sectional living, comprehensive renovations typically involve periods without essential services (water, electricity, heating), extensive dust, noise, and reduced security. For renovations expected to take 3+ months, most clients find temporary accommodation provides significant benefits: faster project completion (30-40% quicker without occupancy constraints), more efficient contractor scheduling, reduced stress, and protection for health (particularly important with young children or respiratory conditions). Some homeowners time renovations with planned holidays or temporarily rent nearby properties. If budget constraints make moving impossible, we can implement phased renovation approaches and temporary service provisions, though this typically extends the project timeline and may increase costs. We discuss living arrangements during our initial consultation to help you plan the most practical approach for your specific circumstances.

Our approach to renovating Bath's many listed buildings combines heritage sensitivity with modern functionality. We begin with thorough historical research and detailed condition assessments to understand the property's significant features and construction methods. Before any work begins, we navigate Bath & North East Somerset Council's listed building consent process, preparing comprehensive documentation with the support of heritage consultants when needed. Our specialist team utilises traditional materials and techniques appropriate to the building's period—including lime plasters and mortars, reclaimed materials, and hand-crafted elements—while sensitively integrating modern services and energy improvements where permitted. We maintain regular communication with conservation officers throughout the project and document all work for historical record-keeping. By balancing preservation requirements with practical living needs, we create homes that honour Bath's architectural heritage while meeting contemporary expectations for comfort and efficiency.

Renovating older Bristol properties often presents compelling advantages over purchasing newer homes, particularly in established, desirable areas like Clifton, Redland, or Southville where character properties predominate. While renovation requires significant investment, older Bristol homes typically offer superior construction quality, larger room proportions, higher ceilings, and distinctive architectural features lacking in newer developments. A comprehensive renovation allows complete customisation to your specific requirements, often delivering better value than the "Bristol premium" paid for already-renovated period properties. Additionally, well-executed renovations typically add 20-30% above cost to property value, particularly for Victorian and Edwardian terraces in popular Bristol neighbourhoods. However, renovation success depends on realistic budgeting (including 15-20% contingency), thorough surveys to identify potential issues like damp or structural problems, and working with specialists experienced in Bristol's housing stock. We provide detailed feasibility assessments to help you make informed decisions about specific properties.

The permissions required for full property renovations in Bath and Bristol depend on the property type and scope of works. Most comprehensive renovations require Building Regulations approval covering structural, fire safety, ventilation, energy efficiency, and accessibility standards. Planning Permission becomes necessary for structural alterations affecting external appearances, extensions, or significant internal reconfiguration of flats. For Bath's approximately 5,000 listed buildings, Listed Building Consent is essential even for internal renovations, while properties in conservation areas (covering much of central Bath and parts of Bristol like Clifton) face additional restrictions. Party Wall Agreements are required when work affects shared walls with neighbours, common in terraced properties. If your property is leasehold, landlord consent is typically needed prior to renovation work. Additionally, utilities permissions may be necessary for service alterations. Our planning experts manage these application processes, liaising with local authorities to secure all necessary approvals before work commences.