Undertaking a comprehensive renovation in Bilbao is one of the most important decisions for improving your home, optimizing space, and increasing market value. On platforms like Habitissimo and Cronoshare, prices range between €400/m² and €1,200/m², but after more than a decade executing projects in Abando, Deusto, and Casco Viejo, our actual figures fall between €550/m² (medium-low quality) and €900/m² (medium-high quality with premium finishes and basic home automation). This range reflects the costs of labor, materials, permits, and contingencies, offering a transparent view for your budget.
What does a comprehensive renovation in Bilbao include?
A comprehensive renovation encompasses the total renewal of your home: from tearing down walls to the final finishes. It consists of:
- Demolition and debris removal: Tearing down partition walls, flooring, and old coverings.
- Installations: Replacement of electrical networks, water pipes, heating, air conditioning, and optionally home automation.
- Tiling and flooring: Installation of ceramics, stoneware, parquet, or microcement in bathrooms, kitchens, and general flooring.
- Carpentry: Interior doors, closets, PVC or aluminum windows, and automatic shutters.
- Painting and finishes: Plastering of walls, decorative moldings, LED lighting, and design details.
Factors influencing the cost
- Total surface area: The cost per m² drops slightly in larger homes due to economies of scale.
- Quality of materials: From economical tiles (€20–30/m²) to high-end porcelain (€60–80/m²).
- Accessibility: High floors without elevators, basements, or areas without loading zones increase logistics costs.
- Initial condition: Humidity, cracks, or structural reinforcements can significantly increase the budget.
- Permits and licenses: A major building permit in Bilbao costs around €500–€1,000 and takes between 4 and 8 weeks.
- Contracting company: Architecture studios + construction firms offer superior guarantees, but at a higher cost compared to freelancers.
Steps for a successful renovation
To manage your project without surprises:
- Survey and diagnosis: Data collection, floor plans, and assessment of conditions with an architect or surveyor.
- Technical project: 2D/3D plans, reports, calculations, and submission to the City Council for the building permit.
- Selection of offers: Request at least three comparative proposals from reputable companies.
- Work plan: Calendar with phases (demolition, installations, finishes) and control points.
- Execution: Demolition, assembly of structures, networks, coverings, and finishes in each phase.
- Final inspection: Joint review of systems (electricity, plumbing, carpentry) and signing of acceptance.
Example budget in Bilbao (70 m², €550/m²)
Example for a 70 m² apartment with medium-low range materials and a standard rate of €550:
| Item | Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Demolition and debris | 3,500 |
| Complete electrical installation | 2,200 |
| Comprehensive plumbing | 2,200 |
| Tiling and flooring | 3,850 |
| Laminate flooring | 3,080 |
| Interior carpentry | 2,750 |
| Basic kitchen | 5,500 |
| Standard bathroom | 4,125 |
| Painting and finishes | 2,310 |
| Permits and administrative fees | 1,000 |
| Contingencies (10%) | 3,850 |
| Approximate total | 38,365 |
Practical tips for saving money
Additionally, opting for local suppliers in Bizkaia reduces logistical costs and supports the regional economy.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a comprehensive renovation take?
On average, between 8 and 12 weeks for 60–80 m² homes, including permits and execution of work.
Do I need community permission?
Yes, if you modify the facade, configure windows, or load-bearing structures, you must have authorization from the neighbors.
Can I finance my renovation?
There are specific credit lines and public grants (Moves Renove plan, Bilbao City Council grants) with advantageous conditions.
Success stories
In Abando, we renovated an 80 m² apartment with medium-high quality finishes for €65,000. Basic home automation, LED lighting, and PVC windows with thermal bridge break were added, improving energy efficiency to A+.
Advantages of hiring local professionals
- Knowledge of municipal regulations and fast processing of paperwork.
- Network of trusted suppliers in Bizkaia.
- Agile and nearby post-delivery assistance.
Sustainable material trends
Microcement, eco-friendly paints, and natural insulation (cork, sheep's wool) are on the rise for achieving healthy and efficient homes.
