What you need to know
- A full renovation should not be reduced to one €/m² figure.
- In the BricoDato example for 80 m², a full standard renovation with one bathroom and a full kitchen, the reference is about €57,960 and the range about €45,790–€75,930.
- Layout changes, complete service replacement, extra bathrooms or new windows can move the budget substantially.
What “full renovation” actually means
It can include demolition, building work, electrics, plumbing, climate systems, floors, walls, paint, joinery, bathroom, kitchen and windows. The label “full” does not guarantee every item is included; read the actual scope.
Indicative example for an 80 m² apartment
In the BricoDato estimator, an 80 m² home, full renovation with services, standard quality, one full bathroom and kitchen included gives a reference close to €57,960. The example range is approximately €45,790–€75,930.
Why a price per m² can mislead
Two 80 m² apartments can have one or two bathrooms, very different kitchens, five or twelve windows and services that are reusable or completely obsolete. €/m² is useful for scale, not for a final comparison.
Where unforeseen work appears
- Old hidden services.
- Uneven or damaged substrates.
- Damp or water ingress.
- Structural elements limiting layout changes.
- Joinery and cabinetry lead times.
- Building rules, permits and waste requirements.
How to keep the budget under control
Define a specification, freeze major decisions before work starts, agree how changes are priced and use payment milestones linked to progress. Keep contingency for genuine unknowns, not for choices that could have been decided earlier.
What documents to ask for before choosing
For a large project, look for measurements, line items, material specification, programme, payment terms, exclusions and responsibilities. Layout changes, complex services or structural work may require specific technical input.
Frequently asked questions
How long can a full renovation take?
It can take several weeks or months depending on area, layout changes, services, procurement and trade coordination.
Should I keep a contingency budget?
Yes. Renovation work can reveal hidden conditions. The estimator lets you add a contingency to the high end of the range.
Is €/m² enough to compare quotes?
No. It is useful for initial scale, but kitchens, bathrooms, windows, services and finish level should be compared as line items.