Your project brief

Plan your renovation

Updated 10 November 2026

Describe your project type, property details and specification. Bring these selections to a conversation about the scope and the information needed before a quotation.

Your project scope Discuss your plans No Obligation

Project Type

Details

Specification

Project brief

What type of project?

Select the renovation that best describes your project.

Loft Conversion

House Extension

Kitchen Renovation

Bathroom Renovation

Basement Conversion

Full Refurbishment

Project Details

Tell us about your property and project size.

Property Type

Area (sqm): 30 sqm

sqm

Postcode

Specification Level

Choose the finish level that matches your vision.

Standard

Quality materials, clean contemporary finish

Prepare for a quotation

Bring together the scope, existing condition and specification before requesting a quotation.

Next Step

Use your brief to plan the next step

Use your selections to prepare for a conversation about the property, scope, specification, structural work, services, access and approvals. Different checks may be needed for a house refurbishment, flat refurbishment, house extension or basement conversion, particularly where hidden fabric, drainage, party-wall matters or staged access affect sequencing and risk.

Hampstead Renovations can discuss your selections and help define the brief for design, procurement and delivery. Separate essential works from optional upgrades before requesting a quotation. That review can also highlight where a phased scope, different specification level or earlier planning advice could change priorities before commitments are made. If your project includes a kitchen renovation, bathroom renovation or planning-sensitive work, we can explain what should be checked before drawings, specifications and contractor pricing are developed. For a project-specific review, contact the team with the property type, intended scope and any constraints you already know.

Common Questions

Renovation Cost FAQs

Answers to the most common questions about renovation costs in London.

How are project costs confirmed? +

Costs are confirmed in stages, because a brief on a form cannot show what a building will need. We start from what you tell us here about the property and the scope, then visit to see the structure, the services and the access. From that visit we agree a scope and specification with you, including any approvals the work needs. A written quotation follows, itemised against that agreed scope, so you can see what is included before you commit to anything.

What should I include in my brief? +

Describe the rooms involved, existing condition, layout changes, services, access and finish specifications. Bring any drawings and approval information already available.

Why are basement conversions so expensive? +

Basement conversions involve significant structural work including underpinning, waterproofing (tanking), soil excavation and removal, temporary structural support and specialist drainage. The engineering complexity, the need for party wall agreements with neighbours, and the London-specific challenges of working below the water table all contribute to higher costs compared to above-ground renovations.

How is the property assessed? +

Access, logistics, the condition of the property and any lease or planning constraints need to be assessed for the particular project.

How do I define the scope? +

List the work you want to include and the items you want to retain. Agree inclusions, exclusions and any unresolved survey questions before requesting a quotation.

How should I choose a specification? +

Record the works, materials, fittings and finish preferences in the brief so they can be discussed against the property and agreed scope.

How long does a typical renovation take? +

Our project managers provide a detailed programme during the quotation stage.

Do I need planning permission? +

It depends on your project and property. Many loft conversions and single-storey rear extensions fall under Permitted Development rights and do not need a formal planning application. However, properties in conservation areas, listed buildings, flats and some larger projects will require planning permission. Basement conversions in several London boroughs now require planning approval. Our team can advise on the specific requirements for your project during a consultation.

Discuss your project

Tell us what you are planning

Share the property location, the work you have in mind and any drawings or permissions you already have.

£5M public liability, £10M employers' liability and contractors' all risks cover.

Design support: Hampstead Architecture & Planning. Surveying support: Hampstead Chartered Surveyors & Building Consultancy.