Rankings
Best renovation companies in London (2026 edition)
If you want multiple quotes quickly without ringing dozens of builders, UK marketplaces are a practical starting point. This guide compares popular options and shows how to brief, vet, and contract safely in London. We may earn a commission if you use partner links, but rankings are based on suitability and homeowner outcomes.
Last updated: 2026-02-04
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you engage with featured partners. Prices stay the same for you.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you engage with featured partners. Prices stay the same for you.
| Provider | Specialism | Standout feature | Coverage | Avg rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Checkatrade | Marketplace of vetted general contractors | 11,000+ London tradespeople with verified reviews | Greater London | 4.7/5 |
| Rated People | Quick quotes for kitchens & bathrooms | Response within 24 hours for urgent repairs | UK-wide | 4.6/5 |
| MyBuilder | Independent builders & loft specialists | Public job board with transparent bids | London & commuter belt | 4.8/5 |
| Houzz Pro Directory | Design-led studios & interior architects | Portfolio-first profiles with 3D visualization | Central London & Surrey | 4.5/5 |
Fast shortlist: where to start
For most London refurbishments, start by posting the same brief to 2-3 platforms and asking for like-for-like quotes. Compare providers like Checkatrade, Rated People, and MyBuilder, then narrow down to 2-3 contractors for site visits before you commit.
How to compare quotes properly
A cheap quote can hide exclusions. Ask every bidder to price the same scope, specification, and programme, then compare: fixed vs provisional sums, waste/removal, protection, making-good, Building Control fees, and who supplies fixtures. Require a line item for contingency and a clear definition of what triggers variations.
Vetting checklist (London-specific)
Verify public liability insurance, employer’s liability, and (where relevant) Gas Safe and NICEIC/NAPIT registrations. Confirm who will actually run the job day-to-day and how many concurrent projects they manage. In leasehold flats, ask for experience with licences to alter, working-hour restrictions, and neighbour management.
Contracts, payments, and retention
Use a written contract, a staged payment schedule tied to milestones, and a variation process (in writing, priced before proceeding). Avoid paying large deposits upfront for labour. For bigger refurbishments, consider a small retention held until snags are cleared and certificates are issued.
Timelines: what is realistic
Most delays come from decisions, lead times, and hidden conditions behind walls. Plan for enabling works (asbestos checks, damp investigations), then first-fix services, then finishes. Build a buffer for inspections and for deliveries in boroughs with strict parking and loading controls.
Avoiding scams and common traps
Red flags include pressure for cash payments, reluctance to provide insurance certificates, vague quotes with many “TBC” items, and refusing to put variations in writing. Use bank transfers, keep a paper trail, and don’t release final payment until you have certificates (electrical, gas, Building Control) and a snag list signed off.
FAQs
How much does a renovation cost in London?
Costs vary by scope and finish, but many full refurbishments land in the £1,800-£2,800 per sqm range. Kitchens and bathrooms can cost more per sqm due to services, waterproofing, and fixtures.
How many quotes should I get?
Aim for 3 comparable quotes for the same scope. Post the same brief to platforms like Checkatrade, Rated People, and MyBuilder so pricing is genuinely comparable.
How long will my project take?
Small refurbishments can take 6-10 weeks; loft conversions often take 12-16 weeks; whole-home refurbishments commonly run 24-40 weeks. Add time for design approvals, lead times, and inspections.
How do I vet a builder beyond reviews?
Ask for proof of insurance, trade registrations (Gas Safe, NICEIC/NAPIT), and two recent projects you can speak to. Confirm who supervises daily and how variations are approved.
What should be in the contract?
Scope/spec, drawings, payment schedule, start/finish dates, change-control process, responsibilities for Building Control, and what happens if the programme slips. Ensure snagging and certificates are explicitly included.
How can I avoid renovation scams?
Avoid cash-only requests and large upfront deposits, insist on a written contract, and keep everything in writing. Only pay for completed milestones and don’t release final payment until certificates and snags are resolved.