Flat refurbishment cost in London (2026)
By Kristian Toth, Co-owner, Making World Beautiful · Last updated: 16 October 2026
Short answer
A full flat refurbishment with MWB costs around £2,000–£3,000 per m²: roughly £100,000–£150,000 for a 50 m² one-bed. Mansion blocks need freeholder licences.
| Flat | Typical cost | Time on site |
|---|---|---|
| Studio (35 m²) | £70,000–£105,000 | 6–8 weeks |
| 1-bed (50 m²) | £100,000–£150,000 | 8–10 weeks |
| 2-bed (75 m²) | £150,000–£225,000 | 10–14 weeks |
| 3-bed (95 m²) | £190,000–£285,000 | 12–16 weeks |
Indicative MWB prices including labour and materials. Your fixed price follows a free site visit.
What's different about renovating a flat?
Freeholder consent, working hours and neighbours shape the project.
- Licence to alter from the freeholder
- Acoustic flooring rules in mansion blocks
- Restricted working hours and lift bookings
What hidden costs should I budget for?
Allow roughly 10–15% on top of the build price for fees and contingency. The most common extras in London are:
- Party wall surveyor: typically £700–£1,500 per neighbour if works affect a shared wall
- Structural engineer calculations: usually £500–£2,000
- Building control fees: commonly £800–£2,000 depending on the council
- Skip permits and parking suspensions: charged per week by the borough
- Planning or lawful development certificate fees where needed
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to refurbish a flat in London?
Around £2,000–£3,000 per m² with MWB.
Do I need permission to renovate a leasehold flat?
Usually you need a licence to alter from the freeholder for structural, plumbing or flooring changes.