Home

Renovating a house can be exciting, but it’s important to know what to look for before you commit time, money, or energy.

Renovating a house can involve anything from simple cosmetic improvements, such as repainting walls or updating flooring, to major structural work like building extensions, converting lofts, or opening up rooms for a more spacious layout. The process usually includes careful budgeting, detailed planning, thorough preparation, construction and utility upgrades, followed by final finishes—always with a strong focus on planning ahead and bringing in the right professionals.

Here’s a practical checklist to guide you:

1. Structural Issues

  • Cracks in walls or ceilings – could indicate subsidence.
  • Uneven floors or sticking doors – may signal foundation movement.
  • Roof condition – look for missing tiles, sagging areas, or signs of leaks.
  • Damp and rot – check around skirting boards, windows, and ceilings.

2. Planning Restrictions and Permissions

  • Check if the property is:
    • Listed
    • In a conservation area
    • Subject to restrictive covenants
  • Contact your local council to confirm what’s allowed.

3. Electrical and Plumbing Systems

  • Outdated wiring? Look for old fuse boxes and surface-mounted cables.
  • Old pipework? Lead or galvanised steel pipes may need replacing.
  • Water pressure? Test taps and showers to ensure it’s sufficient.

4. Insulation and Energy Efficiency

  • Check the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate).
  • Look for double glazing, loft insulation, and cavity wall insulation.
  • Older homes often need upgrades to reduce running costs.

5. Layout and Potential

  • Can walls be moved to open up the space?
  • Is there scope for an extension or loft conversion?
  • Does the layout suit your lifestyle, or will major changes be needed?

6. Asbestos and Other Hazards

  • Common in homes built before 1999.
  • Often found in ceilings, pipe lagging, floor tiles, and roofing.
  • Get a professional asbestos survey before starting work.

7. Drainage and Damp-Proofing

  • Are there signs of rising damp or water ingress?
  • Is the damp proof course intact?
  • Are gutters, downpipes, and drains working properly?

8. Budget and Contingency

  • Get realistic quotes and factor in:
    • Labour
    • Materials
    • Fees (architect, planning, building control)
  • Always add a 10–20% contingency for unexpected issues.

9. Access and Logistics

  • Is there enough access for trades and deliveries?
  • Will you need to move out during the works?
  • Are there restrictions on parking or noise?

10. Neighbour Considerations

  • Will renovations affect party walls or shared boundaries?
  • If so, a Party Wall Agreement may be required.
  • Keep neighbours informed to avoid disputes.