The cost of house renovations in South Africa depends on your location, the type, size and number of rooms being upgraded, and the experience level of your renovation team. You’ll need a skilled team or an all-round renovations expert to manage multiple tasks such as plumbing, electrical work, tiling, painting, building and more.

Key costs to budget for:

1. Preparation work – removing tiles, breaking down old walls and cabinets.
2. Structural or infrastructure needs, like foundations, underpinning, roofing, windows, doors, insulation.
3. Multiple tradespeople – you may need a plumber, electrician and renovations contractor.
4. Drying time for cement, plastering and waterproofing.
5. Building materials, fittings, and finishings – sky’s the limit, so be intentional with your budget
6. Hiring a skip and removing rubble – for larger renovation jobs
7. Unexpected delays – budget for poor weather and drying time

Note: Bigger projects involving structural wall changes may require approval of building plans by the municipal council. Factor in the cost of a qualified draftsperson or architect, as well as sign off by a structural engineer if necessary.

Our advice: Get a clear, itemised quote

Always ask your renovations contractor for a clear, detailed quote that includes:

1. Material costs
2. A breakdown of the renovation installation and refurbishment phases or steps
3. Labour charges (hourly or daily rates)

This helps you understand the full cost of your property renovations upfront and avoids unexpected costs down the line.

Typical daily labour costs:

Labour costs vary depending on the renovator’s level of experience. Below are some average daily rates:

1. Labourer: R350 - R500
2. Apprentice: R500 - R800
3. Trade qualified: R800 - R1500
4. Experienced main renovations contractor: R2000 - R2500
5. Multi-skilled, experienced renovations contractor: R3500+

For the best results, it’s worth hiring a reputable, experienced renovator to supervise and guide the renovations team. This ensures a high-quality, long-lasting renovation and can save you money in the long run. If needed, rather save up to hire the best renovations team you can afford – the results will be worth it.

How to keep your renovation costs down?

Book through HandymanDirect – and save money through expert help

1. Hire an experienced renovator service who understands your home makeover needs and the best way to get the job done right.
2. Use quality materials that suit your budget ensuring a quality renovation and a long lasting, professional renovation.
3. Avoid costly mid-project changes, as they cause delays and extra costs. Provide images or examples of what you want upfront.
4. Ask about material handling fees. It’s often cheaper to buy and return building, fitting and furnishing materials yourself than let your renovations contractor do it.
5. Stay involved. Check progress regularly, take photos, and address concerns early with your renovation service to ensure a high-quality outcome.
6. When you book your renovations company through HandymanDirect, we’ve got your back. Simply send us a few photos, and we’ll provide an expert opinion - or speak directly to the contractor on your behalf.