Refurbishment Cost UK | Commercial Refurbishment & Fit-Out Costs Explained
Refurbishment cost UK is the question most clients ask first. In simple terms, a commercial refurbishment in the UK can range between £400 and £1,000+ per m², depending on the specification, building condition and region. This guide explains what drives those numbers and how to plan a realistic budget.
What Determines the Cost of a Commercial Refurbishment?
No two spaces are the same, but a few questions help establish a realistic budget:
1. What’s the Size of the Space?
Larger areas usually cost more overall but can benefit from economies of scale. Always measure in m² or sq ft to keep pricing consistent.
2. What Specification Do You Want?
Basic refresh – paint, flooring, lighting (just replacement of existing… no changes), basic suspended ceiling.
Mid-spec upgrade – improved finishes, M&E (mechanical & electrical changes to the environment), partitions, additional services, standard furniture
High-end or bespoke – joinery, AV, design-led interiors, bespoke furniture
3. What’s the Building Condition Like?
Old or neglected services (electrics, plumbing, HVAC) often need replacing, which increases costs. Compliance works, such as fire-stopping and fire doors, also add costs and safety, but require certification.
4. What’s Your Timescale?
A faster programme means more labour and weekend working, and consequently a higher bill.
Early planning helps avoid that.
5. Where Is the Project Located?
Projects in tight or city-centre locations, or on sites with limited accessibility, often incur higher delivery and labour costs than projects on open industrial estates or regional sites.
Typical Timeline for a Commercial Refurbishment
Below is a rough outline of stages and timeframes you can expect:
| Stage | What Happens | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Briefing & Survey | We visit the site, assess the building, and gather requirements. | 1–2 weeks |
| 2. Design & Cost Plan | Layouts, finishes, pricing options (basic to high spec). | 2–4 weeks |
| 3. Procurement | Materials and subcontractor selection. | 2–3 weeks |
| 4. On-Site Works | Strip-out, services, finishes, flooring, decoration. | 4–12 weeks |
| 5. Snagging & Handover | Final checks, cleaning, furniture install. | 1–2 weeks |
For live environments, allow additional time to minimise business disruption… and these timings are just for reference
Why Costs Can Increase Mid-Project
Even with good pre-construction planning, some things reveal themselves later, like spec changes once you see finishes in place and hidden defects such as old pipework or outdated electrics. Another contributor is possible access restrictions, including out-of-hours working. Compliance upgrades, particularly under new fire safety legislation. Inflation in material and labour rates (fluctuation can happen from quote to execution).
A sensible approach is to keep a 10–15% contingency in your budget.
How Manor Interior Solutions Can Help
At Manor Interior Solutions, we guide clients through every stage — from concept to completion — balancing design ambition with practical delivery.
We provide:
Transparent cost breakdowns so you know where every pound goes.
A choice of commercial fit-out packages to match your spec level.
End-to-end project management and compliance oversight.
Proven results across sectors, from offices to schools and manufacturing facilities.
Explore some of our completed refurbishment projects, including:
– Grosvenor Leasing Boardroom – a modern executive space transformation.
– Cavendish School Library – functional design that blends creativity with durability.
Key Takeaways
– Use £400–£1,000 per m² as a realistic starting point (this is as of 2025)
– Define your specification early to avoid mid-project surprises.
– Plan enough time; rushing always costs more.
– Include compliance and sustainability upgrades in early budgeting.
– Work with a main contractor that offers both office refurbishment and aftercare support.
