Renovating an old apartment is a project that requires careful thought and planning. But where do you start? What work is required? And most importantly, what budget should you allocate? These are all legitimate questions that arise when considering renovating an old home .
Indeed, renovating an old apartment is an ambitious project that requires good preparation . Whether it’s to improve your living comfort, increase the value of your property or simply give it a facelift, this guide will accompany you throughout your project. We will look together at the different steps to follow, the different trades to call upon, as well as the different expenditure items to plan for.
Reno , an interior design firm, takes care of your old apartment renovation , from floor to ceiling. Our team has years of experience in plan design. From the renovation of your key rooms to the electrical renovation of your apartment, to the refurbishment of each room: we take care of everything!
In this article, we’ll help you gain insight and estimate the cost of your renovation project. We’ll also discuss the various financial aid programs you may be eligible for to achieve your renovations.
The cost of renovating an old apartment: a realistic estimate
The cost of renovating an old apartment is a frequently discussed topic. It varies considerably depending on several factors.
Key factors that influence the budget
The general condition of the apartment
An apartment in good condition will require less work than a dilapidated apartment.
The scale of the work
A simple kitchen and bathroom renovation will not cost the same as a complete apartment renovation .
The materials chosen
Premium materials are generally more expensive than standard materials.
The craftsmen requested
Prices may vary from one craftsman to another.
The surface to be renovated
The larger the surface area, the higher the cost of the work will be.
The most important expenditure items
Here is a summary table of the main expenditure items during a renovation:
Expense item | Works included |
Structural work | Demolition, masonry, plastering, insulation |
Second work | Electricity, plumbing, heating, floor and wall coverings |
Facilities | Kitchen, bathroom, interior woodwork |
Finishes | Painting, wall coverings, floors |
Sample budgets to guide you
It is difficult to give an exact price for a renovation , as each project is unique. However, here are some price ranges to give you an idea:
- Light renovation (painting, floor coverings): expect to pay between €200 and €500 per m².
- Complete renovation (kitchen, bathroom, electricity, plumbing): expect to pay between €800 and €1,500 per m².
NB These prices are given for information purposes only and may vary depending on your region and the craftsmen used.
Financial aid for your project
Fortunately, there are many financial aids available to help you finance your renovation project . These include:
The tax credit for energy transition (CITE)
It allows you to benefit from a tax reduction on expenses incurred to improve the energy performance of your home.
The zero-interest eco-loan (eco-PTZ)
This loan allows you to finance energy renovation work without paying interest .
Assistance from the National Housing Agency (ANAH)
Anah offers various financial aids for low-income owner-occupiers.
To find out what assistance you are eligible for, do not hesitate to contact a construction advisor or a specialist organization.
How to do it : the key steps in renovating an old apartment
Such a project requires rigorous organization. Here are the main steps to follow to successfully complete your project:
Step 1: Preliminary study and design
- Take a detailed inventory: identify the strengths and weaknesses of your apartment . What elements should be kept? What work should be prioritized?
- Establish a detailed specification: define your needs, your desires and your budget.
- Call on an architect or a project manager: a professional will help you design a project adapted to your home and your constraints.
Step 2: Choose the right professionals
- Play the competition: ask for several quotes to compare offers.
- Check the qualifications and insurance of the tradesmen.
- Choose recommended professionals.
Step 3: administrative procedures
- Apply for a building permit or a prior declaration: contact your town hall to find out what steps to take.
- Inform your condominium manager if you are in a co-ownership.
Step 4: the work
The renovation work can be divided into several phases:
Phase | Works |
Structural work | Demolition, masonry, creation of openings… |
Second work | Electricity, plumbing, heating, insulation… |
Finishes | Floor and wall coverings, painting, sanitary installation… |
Step 5: Monitor the progress of the work
- Organize site meetings regularly.
- Use a dashboard to track work progress.
- Do not hesitate to ask questions to your project manager or your craftsmen.
By following these steps, you will increase your chances of successfully completing your renovation project under the best possible conditions.
Remember that a renovation is a project that requires time and patience. Leave room for unexpected events.
Technical aspects not to be neglected in your renovation of an old apartment
Here, the work requires special attention to technical aspects. Indeed, these homes often have specific features that require tailored solutions.
Energy renovation: an investment for the future
Energy renovation of an existing apartment is an investment that pays off in the long run. By reducing your energy consumption, you lower your bills and contribute to environmental protection.
What work should be done?
- Thermal insulation: walls, roof, floors…
- Windows: replacement with high-performance models.
- Heating: installation of a more efficient heating system.
Compliance with standards: a legal obligation and a guarantee of safety
Bringing an old apartment up to standard is a legal obligation . This particularly concerns electricity, plumbing and fire safety.
Why bring your apartment up to standard?
Works | For what ? |
Electricity | Safety of people and property |
Plumbing | Waterproofing, hygiene |
Fire safety | Smoke detectors, fire extinguishers |
The choice of materials: an impact on aesthetics and durability
The choice of materials is essential for the success of your renovation project . Choose quality materials that are durable and suitable for the old .
Table: Some examples of materials suitable for renovation
Type of materials | Benefits |
Solid wood | Warm, authentic, sustainable |
Natural stone | Robust, aesthetic, timeless |
Recycled materials | Ecological, economical |
The importance of calling on professionals
To achieve quality work, it is recommended to hire skilled craftsmen . A project manager can also assist you in managing your project.
Pitfalls to avoid and professional advice for a successful renovation
Renovating an old apartment can quickly become a daunting task if you don’t take the right precautions. Here are some tips to avoid the most common mistakes and complete your project successfully .
Mistakes to avoid
Underestimating the budget
Renovation work can quickly add up to additional costs. It’s essential to build in a safety margin.
Do not call professionals
Some projects require specific skills. Hiring a project manager or qualified craftsmen will help you avoid many surprises.
Not establishing precise specifications
A clear and detailed specification will allow you to communicate better with professionals and avoid misunderstandings.
Not anticipating the unexpected
Older apartments can hide unpleasant surprises. It’s important to budget for unexpected expenses.
Tips from the pros
Obtain several quotes
Compare offers from different professionals to get the best value for money.
Visit construction sites in progress
This will allow you to see the quality of the work carried out and ask any questions you may have.
Regularly monitor the construction site
Please feel free to visit the site to check the progress of the work and report any problems.
Allow sufficient time
Renovation work can be lengthy. It’s important to plan a comfortable timeframe to avoid stress.
Table: The key steps to a successful renovation
Stage | Advice |
Preparation | Establish a detailed budget, choose materials, select professionals |
Realization | Regularly monitor the construction site, communicate with professionals |
Reception | Check the conformity of the work, carry out an exit inventory |
By following these tips, you will increase your chances of successfully completing your renovation project and obtaining an apartment that reflects your image.
FAQ: All your questions about renovating an old apartment
How much does it cost to renovate an old apartment?
The cost of renovating an old apartment varies considerably depending on several factors: the surface area to be renovated, the general condition of the property, the scope of the work (simple refresh, complete renovation), the choice of materials and finishes, as well as the region. It’s difficult to give an accurate average price, but it’s generally recommended to plan for a substantial budget. Don’t hesitate to request several quotes to compare offers.
How do I find tradespeople for my renovation?
To find competent craftsmen for your renovation project, you can:
- ask for recommendations from those around you;
- consult online platforms specializing in construction;
- request quotes from several professionals;
- check the certifications and insurance of each craftsman.
What financial assistance is available for energy renovation?
There are many financial aid programs available to encourage the energy renovation of an existing apartment . You can benefit from tax credits, zero-interest eco-loans, or even assistance from the National Housing Agency (ANAH). Check with your renovation advisor or a specialized organization to find out what assistance you are eligible for.
How long does a renovation last?
The duration of a renovation depends on the scope of the work and the complexity of the project. A simple refresh can take a few weeks, while a complete renovation can take several months. It is important to allow sufficient time and account for possible unforeseen circumstances .
What work should be prioritized during a renovation?
The work to prioritize when renovating an old apartment is generally:
- bringing electrical and plumbing installations up to standard,
- improving thermal and sound insulation,
- replacement of damaged coverings (floor, walls, ceilings),
- modernization of the kitchen and bathroom.
Can I do some work myself?
It’s entirely possible to carry out some renovation work yourself if you have some DIY skills. However, for more complex projects (electrical, plumbing, masonry), it’s best to hire professionals to ensure the quality and safety of the work.
How do I choose the right materials for my renovation?
The choice of materials for your renovation depends on several criteria: your budget, the desired decorating style, thermal and acoustic performance, and ease of maintenance. Choose healthy and sustainable materials, such as wood, natural stone, or recycled materials.
What are the current trends in renovating old apartments?
Current trends in the renovation of old apartments favor:
- highlighting original features (moldings, fireplaces, etc.);
- opening up spaces to create a brighter and more airy atmosphere;
- the use of natural materials and light colors;
- the integration of connected technologies for optimal comfort.
How to make a small bathroom look bigger?
To enlarge a small bathroom , several solutions are possible:
- remove a non-load-bearing partition to create a more open space;
- optimize space by using wall-mounted furniture and space-saving sanitary equipment;
- install a walk-in shower to save space;
- play with colors and light to create an illusion of space.
How do I estimate my renovation budget?
To estimate the budget for your renovation, you can:
- have several quotes drawn up by different professionals;
- use online simulators;
- ask an architect or project manager for advice;
- take into account unforeseen events by adding a safety margin to your initial budget.
