A full home renovation in Athens is a complex process that requires good organisation, reliable contractors and a realistic budget. This guide explains what is involved, what it costs and how to manage the project from start to finish.
Full renovation cost in Athens: what to expect
What does a full renovation include?
A complete renovation typically covers: demolition, removal of old installations, new electrical wiring, new plumbing, heating/cooling, plasterboard, flooring, painting, bathroom and kitchen renovation, interior doors, lighting and carpentry.
The key difference from partial renovation: in a full renovation ALL systems (electrical, plumbing, heating) are typically replaced from scratch, which increases cost but guarantees decades without problems.
Realistic timelines for a full renovation
A 60–90 sqm apartment in full renovation needs 8–16 weeks for execution, plus 4–8 weeks for design and pre-approvals. Smaller properties can be completed in 6–10 weeks. Delay factors: discoveries (concealed damage), design changes mid-execution and material delivery delays.
How to manage a full renovation: the correct order of works
The correct order of works is critical. Typical sequence: 1) Demolition, 2) Structural changes/masonry, 3) Plumbing rough-in, 4) Electrical rough-in, 5) Heating/cooling, 6) Insulation and plasterboard, 7) Tiles and flooring, 8) Painting, 9) Doors and windows, 10) Lighting and switches, 11) Furniture and equipment.
Renovating while living in or empty?
It is almost always better to vacate the property during a full renovation. Beyond health risks (dust, chemicals, noise), the presence of occupants significantly slows execution and increases cost by 15–25%. Arrange alternative accommodation for the execution period.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a full apartment renovation take in Athens?
A 60–90 sqm apartment typically takes 8–16 weeks for execution after 4–8 weeks of planning and pre-approvals. Allow 6 months from the decision to move back in, to be realistic.
Do I need a building permit for a full renovation?
Cosmetic renovations (painting, flooring, tiles) do not require a permit. Structural changes — moving walls, altering the building's footprint — require approval from the local Poleodomia. Electrical and plumbing renewals technically require notification but are rarely flagged if done by licensed contractors.
What is the biggest cost in a full renovation?
Typically the kitchen and bathrooms account for 35–50% of the total budget, even in a full renovation. Electrical and plumbing systems together typically represent 15–25%. Labour overall is 50–60% of the total in Athens.
Should I hire a project manager for my renovation?
For a full renovation, yes. A good project manager coordinates all trades, manages the schedule and resolves conflicts between contractors before they become expensive. TCG-registered engineers can legally supervise construction projects. Their fee is typically 5–10% of the total project cost but often saves more than that in avoided mistakes.
How do I avoid going over budget?
Three rules: 1) Add 15–20% contingency from the start. 2) Finalise the design completely before construction starts — changes mid-build are very expensive. 3) Get fixed-price quotes rather than time-and-materials. Most overruns come from scope creep and concealed damage.
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