Key Takeaways
- A full house renovation typically takes 3 to 6 months on site.
- A kitchen takes 3 to 5 weeks, a bathroom 10 to 15 working days.
- Extensions take 10 to 16 weeks, loft conversions 6 to 10 weeks.
- Design, permissions and lead times add weeks before work starts.
- Decisions made late and materials ordered late are the biggest causes of delay.
One of the first questions homeowners ask is how long it will all take. The honest answer depends on the project, but there are reliable benchmarks. Here is how long renovations take in London, and what makes the difference.
Typical timelines
| Project | Time on site |
|---|---|
| Bathroom | 10 to 15 working days |
| Kitchen | 3 to 5 weeks |
| Loft conversion | 6 to 10 weeks |
| Single-storey extension | 10 to 16 weeks |
| Full house renovation | 3 to 6 months |
Time before work starts
The build is only part of the story. Allow several weeks for design and drawings, around 8 weeks for a planning decision where one is needed, time for structural calculations and any party wall notices, and lead times on materials and the builder's availability. Good contractors are often booked weeks ahead, so plan early.
What causes delays, and how to avoid them
Most delays are avoidable. The biggest culprits are decisions made late, materials ordered late, hidden issues in older homes, and poor trade coordination. To keep on track:
- Finalise the design and all choices before work starts.
- Order long lead-time items (kitchens, stone, windows) early.
- Keep a contingency for surprises.
- Use one coordinated team so trades are sequenced efficiently.
For a realistic programme for your project, contact us or call 07472 424 226.