Wondering how long it takes to remodel a house? Many UK homeowners begin planning a renovation without having a clear idea of how long each stage—design, planning permission, building control, construction and finishing—actually takes. This guide breaks down realistic UK timelines, from light refurbishments to full-house renovations, so you can plan with confidence and avoid unnecessary delays.
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- How long a remodel really takes (UK)
- Key factors that affect renovation timelines
- Stages of a house remodel and how long each takes
- Renovation timeline table
- Common delays and how to avoid them
- Costs, approvals & lead times
- How to plan your project step-by-step
- FAQs
- Key Facts Snapshot
- Next steps & useful guides
How long does it take to remodel a house in the UK?
If you’re asking how long does it take to remodel a house, the honest answer is that UK renovation timings vary widely. A simple cosmetic refresh may take a few weeks, while a full-house remodel involving structural work can stretch to several months.
Because most UK homes are older and often require updates to wiring, insulation, drainage or layout, the timeline is shaped not just by the building work but also by planning rules, building control requirements and contractor availability.
A good rule of thumb is:
- Light refurb: 2–4 weeks
- Medium renovation: 6–12 weeks
- Full-house remodel: 3–9 months
- Structural changes: Add 4–12 weeks
Next, we break this down stage-by-stage so you know exactly what to expect.
Key factors that affect renovation timelines
Although two homes may look similar, their timelines can be very different. Several factors influence how long a remodel takes:
- Whether planning permission is required – Not all works are permitted development.
- Building control approval – Most remodels require inspections and sign-off.
- Structural changes – Removing walls or adding beams adds engineering and approval time.
- Property age – Older homes may reveal hidden defects once walls/floors are opened.
- Contractor availability – Good builders often have long lead times.
- Material supply – Kitchens, windows and bespoke joinery all have varying delivery times.
- Budget & decision-making speed – Delays approving quotes or designs push the schedule out.
How long each stage of a house remodel takes
Here’s how long the main UK stages typically take, from initial ideas to completion.
1. Planning, drawings and design – 2–8 weeks
For most remodels, you’ll need some form of drawings—concept sketches or full measured plans. If the project also needs structural calculations or planning permission, allow longer.
For more detail, see our guide: Making Plans – Complete Guide to Costs & Approval.
2. Planning permission (if required) – 8 weeks
Not every remodel needs planning permission, but structural changes, extensions or layout changes often do.
If an application is needed, councils typically take 8 weeks for household planning decisions.
Useful guide: Do I Need Planning Permission?
3. Building control approval – 2–8 weeks
Almost all remodels require building control. You can use either a Building Notice or a Full Plans application.
Related guides:
4. Contractor lead time – 2–12 weeks
Builders, electricians, plumbers and plasterers may need to be booked weeks in advance.
5. Construction – 2 weeks to 9 months
This is where timelines vary most. Light refurbishments move quickly. Full remodels involving structural work or reconfiguring layouts take far longer.
Renovation timeline table (UK averages)
| Type of Work | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Light cosmetic refurb (painting, flooring, small updates) | 2–4 weeks |
| Kitchen or bathroom remodel | 3–6 weeks |
| Medium renovation (rewiring, plastering, layout tweaks) | 6–12 weeks |
| Full-house renovation (multiple rooms, services updated) | 3–9 months |
| Structural changes (removing walls, RSJs, extensions) | +4–12 weeks |
Not sure how long your remodel will take?
We can review your plans and give you a realistic timeline before you start.
Common delays during a remodel (and how to avoid them)
Even well-planned projects encounter surprises. These are the most common UK delays:
- Hidden defects discovered after demolition (rot, old wiring, poor insulation).
- Slow decision-making on finishes and fixtures.
- Planning permission queries or additional information requests.
- Structural engineer changes once site conditions are uncovered.
- Trades availability gaps delaying handover between tasks.
Approvals, costs and lead times
Timelines often stretch because homeowners underestimate approval stages. Here are common timeframes:
- Measured survey: 1–2 weeks
- Architectural drawings: 2–8 weeks
- Structural calculations: 1–3 weeks
- Planning permission: 8 weeks
- Building control plan check: 2–5 weeks
Useful guides:
How to plan a remodel step-by-step
| Step | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 1. Initial ideas | Decide what you want to change, create a wish list and budget. |
| 2. Survey & drawings | Measured survey, floor plans and layout options prepared. |
| 3. Planning assessment | Check if work needs planning permission or is permitted development. |
| 4. Structural design | Engineer produces calculations for beams or wall removals. |
| 5. Building control | Full Plans application or Building Notice submitted. |
| 6. Quotes & contractor booking | Builders price the work and reserve a slot. |
| 7. Construction | Work begins, inspected by building control in key stages. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission to remodel a house?
Not always. Internal changes are often permitted development, but structural works, extensions or altering the roof shape usually require planning permission.
How long does it take to remodel an entire house?
Most full-house renovations take 3–9 months, depending on size, layout changes and materials.
Can you live in a house while it’s being remodelled?
Light works—yes. Major structural works—usually no, due to safety, dust and service interruptions.
When should I contact building control?
Before work starts. They will tell you when inspections are required and what they need to sign off your project.
Key Facts Snapshot
- Light refurb: 2–4 weeks
- Medium remodel: 6–12 weeks
- Full-house renovation: 3–9 months
- Planning permission: 8 weeks (if required)
- Building control approval: 2–8 weeks
- Major delays to watch: Hidden defects, contractor gaps, late material orders
Next steps & useful PME guides
These guides help you plan your remodel with confidence:
- Making Plans – Complete Guide
- Building Regulations Explained
- Building Control Guide
- Planning Permission – Homeowner Guide
External resources
Ready to start your remodel?
Plans Made Easy can prepare drawings, manage compliance and guide you from idea to approval.
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