Renovating a flat is one of the most serious investments that property owners undertake. In 2026, the cost of renovations in Warsaw continues to rise - mainly due to the price of building materials, labour and a greater demand for comprehensive finishing services.
If you are planning to refresh your home, do a general refurbishment or finish from a developer, the following guide will help you to realistically assess your budget.

It is worth emphasising that all the prices presented in the article are the average cost of the complete works, i.e. labour together with the materials necessary for a given stage of the renovation. In this way, we present real approximate prices for the renovation that the investor must incur and what budget to prepare for. We avoid a situation in which the investor assumes that the quoted amounts concern only labour.

 

Why are refurbishment prices rising?

In recent years, refurbishment costs have increased by an average of 8-15% per year. For 2026, the impact is:

The renovation prices include both the work of the team and the materials needed for proper execution - such as primers, plaster, adhesives, grouts, profiles, plasterboard, soffits or small building chemicals. This is important, as additional materials often account for 15-30% of the total budget.

 

Indicative prices for renovations in Warsaw in 2026

The price ranges below include the average cost of full implementation, i.e:
✔ labourę,
✔ matterły basic (adhesives, glazes, silicones, plasters, primers, plasterboards) and technical (cables, pipes),
✔ montage elementsżthese,
✔ notbędną chemistryę constructioną.

Quotas do not include only decorative materials chosen individually, such as tiles, fittings or panels, lamps and special lighting - as their prices depend on the investor's preferences.

 

Basic„ renovation - price 900-1700 zł/m²

You can calmly assume a budget for a basic refurbishment of a flat within the given fork. Such a renovation is for people who want to refresh their flat cheaply or prepare it for rent. And the amount and type of work is not complicated. When planning a budget, the first question to be answered is whether my flat needs to be completely renovated or only refreshed.

If you are only planning to refresh the flat without major renovation work you can assume a lower range of ~£900/m2, whereas if your flat is due for a general refurbishment but you don't want to renovate it to a premium standard then plan a budget closer to ~£1700/m2

What work does such a refurbishment involve?

The amount quoted includes both labour and the basic materials required to complete the work.

 

Standard„ renovation - price 1300-2000 zł/m²

The most commonly chosen standard. In this proposal, as before, the boundary of the spread depends on what kind of flat you have to renovate, whether it is a renovation from a developer or a general renovation. First of all, what do you want? Are the planned lighting points in the flat, the drains in the bathroom, the location of the fridge, dishwasher or sink acceptable to you, then you can confidently accept the lower limit of the fork, choosing building materials from the average price range. However, do you want to make changes or add a few points? You're better off adopting a budget at the higher end of the range.

In this case, the choice of materials is also important: paints, smoothers, adhesives, grouts choose mid-range ones or indulge in premium materials.

What work does such a refurbishment involve?

 

Premium„ renovation - price 2000-3000 zł/m²

For investors expecting the highest quality. In this case, only your head is the limit. 😊 Indulge yourself with top quality materials, electrical and plumbing changes in the option presented. Great lighting for your stairs, walls and ceilings. Customise your flat to the one you have always dreamed of.

Within the prices shown, you can expect:

Again, the fork applies to the total work - including labour and technical materials.

 

Sample valuation of a 40-60 m² flat

Amounts include the average cost of carrying out the work with materials.

Hydraulics: PLN 3,000-8,000

(replacement of pipes, installation of fittings, relocation of points)

Electrics: PLN 4,000-12,000

(new circuits, sockets, installation of lighting)

Wall and floor finishes: PLN 7,000-20,000

Bathroom and kitchen: PLN 20,000-45,000

(the cost depends mainly on the chosen decorative materials)

The total refurbishment of a 50 m² flat is approximately £70,000-120,000, assuming labour and materials to an average standard.

 

Most common additional costs

 

The prices shown for refurbishing a flat in Warsaw in 2026 are realistic, average costs for the full service - labour together with the necessary technical materials.
This gives the developer a clear idea of the actual budget to be spent on the works.

Renovating a bathroom in a block of flats is one of the most challenging and costly undertakings when modernising a flat. Limited space, old fixtures and fittings, lack of inspection risers or poor ventilation mean that even a small bathroom can generate major challenges at both the planning and execution stages.

In this guide, we outline the complete process of refurbishing a bathroom in a block of flats, the current cost of works and materials forecast for 2026 and the most common mistakes that can significantly increase the budget or lengthen the completion time.

 

Standard problems in bathrooms in blocks of flats

Bathrooms in blocks of flats - especially those made of large slabs - have several recurring problems, including:

  • Outdated plumbing - steel and cast iron pipes from the 1970s-90s are often corroded.
  • Poor ventilation - no draught in ducts, no air supply under doors.
  • Small footprint - usually 2-4 m².
  • Curved walls and floors - large differences in levels requiring additional works.
  • Common risers - not everything can be moved or rebuilt.

A well-planned renovation solves most of these problems - but only if it follows the right pattern.

 

Bathroom renovation stages

1. dismantling and preparing the room

The first phase includes:

  • dismantling of bathtub, washbasin, toilet,
  • chipping of old tiles,
  • removal of old buildings and furniture,
  • removal of rubble,
  • preparing the ground for new installations.

In blocks of flats, it is often necessary to scrape the floor up to the ceiling to replace sewer approaches or lay new waterproofing.

2. plumbing - installation upgrade

Plumbing is a key part of a bathroom refurbishment in a block of flats. Replacements include:

  • water pipes (usually on PEX/PP),
  • sewage system (PVC Ø50/75),
  • approaches for taps, washing machine, toilet rack,
  • valves and radiator approaches, if any.

New pipes avoid failures and increase safety, especially in large slab buildings.

3 Electrics - safety and standards

A number of standards apply in the bathroom, including restrictions on the installation of sockets and lighting in wet areas.

The scope of work includes:

  • replacement of cables with 3-wire cables,
  • Separate circuit for washing machine - unless there is one,
  • installation of a differential - unless it exists,
  • installation of lighting points,
  • preparation of wiring for mirror with lighting.

An electrical system that is too weak is one of the most common causes of overloads and faults.

Waterproofing - a key stage

Waterproofing protects the dwelling (and the neighbours below) from flooding. It should be done:

  • liquid film,
  • sealing tapes,
  • in corners and fitting areas,
  • over the entire surface in the shower and around the bathtub.

This is absolutely NOT an element worth saving on.

5. Tiling

Once the substrate has been prepared, the tiler performs:

  • levelling the surface - ATTENTION! is carried out before the waterproofing is applied,
  • laying of tiles (mostly porcelain stoneware),
  • grouting,
  • siliconisation.

In blocks of flats, the tiles often require additional levelling work because the walls are sometimes crooked by up to a few centimetres.

6. Installation of fittings and lighting

Finally, it is performed:

  • installation of a cabin, bathtub or toilet rack,
  • installation of faucets and drains,
  • installation of bathroom furniture,
  • installation of ceiling and LED lighting
  • installation of mirror, accessories and minor finishes.

This is the moment when the bathroom takes on its final look.

 

How much does it cost to renovate a bathroom in Warsaw (2026)?

Prices depend on the standard, the square metre and the extent of the installation upgrade.

Below are average prices including both labour and basic materials (adhesives, grout, waterproofing, installation components). This avoids the impression that the amounts quoted are just the cost of the contractor's labour.

Labour costs (indicative)

  • Dismantling and removal of rubble: PLN 800-1,500
  • Plumbing (installation replacement): £2,500-4,500
  • Electrics: PLN 1 500 - 3 000
  • Waterproofing: PLN 600-1,200
  • Tiling: 150-250 PLN/m²
  • Installation of fittings: PLN 500-1,500

Material costs (average prices)

  • Tiles: £80-250/m² (mid-range)
  • Fittings: £500-3,000 per point
  • Cab/Bathtub: £1,000-4,000
  • WC rack + bowl: PLN 1 000-2 500
  • Bathroom furniture: PLN 700-3,000

 

Average total cost of bathroom refurbishment in Warsaw in 2026:

Standard

Total cost (labour + materials) assumed bathroom 2-4 m2

Budget

PLN 15,000 - 20,000

Standard

PLN 21,000 - 28,000

Higher, premium

PLN 30,000 - 45,000

Small bathrooms of 2-4 m² are unfortunately proportionally more expensive per m², because most of the fixed costs (plumbing, electrics, dismantling) remain the same.

 

The most common mistakes when renovating a bathroom

1. lack of waterproofing

This is a most often underestimated problem that ends up..... flooding neighbours and huge costs.

2. bad falls

Poorly executed dips result:

  • standing water,
  • leaks,
  • problems with the linear drain.

3. Overloaded electrical circuits

When the washing machine, dryer, boiler and lighting are on the same circuit - breakdowns are a matter of time.

4. lack of ventilation

Without adequate ventilation:

  • fungus appears,
  • mirrors evaporate,
  • moisture damages furniture and joints.

Sometimes an under-door vent or the installation of a humidity-sensing fan is all that is needed.

 

Summary

Renovating a bathroom in a block of flats is a complex process that requires precise planning and the right sequence of works. The problems typical of multi-family housing in older blocks of flats - old installations, small space or poor ventilation - make it worth relying on reliable contractors and quality materials.

The most important elements that must not be overlooked are:

  • reliable replacement of plumbing and electrics,
  • professional waterproofing,
  • correct gradients,
  • good ventilation,
  • a realistic budget including labour and materials.

A general refurbishment is one of the most demanding and time-consuming investments you can make in a flat. It means much more than just repainting the walls or replacing the floors - it involves remodelling, upgrading installations and often replacing all the interior elements from scratch.

If you are wondering what such a step-by-step renovation looks like, this guide will take you through the entire process - from planning and dismantling to the final finishing touches.

 

What does „general renovation” mean?

A general refurbishment covers all key elements of the interior and makes the flat practically „new”. What we can expect with such a renovation:

  • dismantling of old finishes and fittings,
  • replacement of plumbing and electrical installations,
  • modernisation of walls, ceilings and floors,
  • New plaster, plasterboard, plasterboard,
  • New floors, doors, fittings, lighting,
  • finishing the bathroom and kitchen from scratch.

It's a complex process that requires a plan, a sequence of works and the right team, so it's good to know what each stage looks like.

 

Step 1 - Preparation and planning

Before the renovation team comes in, the most important thing is to prepare the whole project well. Consider whether you want to use an interior designer or do a simple project yourself. Before the renovation team enters, already choose the tiles, fittings, switches or contacts, it may seem too early, but very often accessories in particular can change several times or you may have to wait for the material. A lack of available material can significantly delay your renovation.
Plan your furniture selection and installation. Remember that it's a good idea to order your bespoke furniture in advance or to find out when you can do this at the earliest, what the carpenter needs from you and what it will be like to work with them. If you are planning to buy furniture from a chain store, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the ordering rules beforehand.

 

Step 2 - Inventory and measurements

This is a mandatory first step.
It involves:

  • accurate measurement of each room,
  • determination of wall thickness, room height,
  • assessing any damage.

You can do this step yourself or ask your renovation team to sign a contract with you.

  • checking the condition of the electrical and plumbing systems - this step is worth taking with a qualified electrician and plumber.
  • moisture assessment - this is also carried out by professional companies.

A reliable inventory avoids mistakes further down the line.

 

Step 3 - Interior design

At this stage, it is emerging:

  • room layout concept,
  • visualisations,
  • bathroom and kitchen design,
  • lighting and socket arrangement,
  • bill of materials.

The project allows costs to be predicted and the exact scope of the work to be determined - especially for a general refurbishment.

PRO TIP!

If you want to save money on a project you can use design services in popular DIY stores, most offer designs for bathrooms, kitchens or storage furniture. In most cases, the service works by paying a small amount of money for a design in the region of £200, and when you order building materials from that shop you get the design for free.

 

Step 4 - Work schedule

The schedule specifies:

  • sequence of activities,
  • duration of individual stages,
  • material requirements,
  • moments of installation acceptance.

This is a key document that helps avoid chaos and downtime during the renovation.

 

Example of work schedule

Stage 1: Dismantling and preliminary work

Once the design has been prepared, the team gets down to the actual work.

a) Removal of old buildings

Dismantling includes:

  • chipping of old tiles,
  • dismantling of panels and mouldings,
  • removal of fittings and ceramics,
  • dismantling of doors and furniture fittings,
  • demolition of partition walls (if provided for in the design).

This is the most „dirty” stage of the work.

(b) Securing of premises and preparation of substrates

Includes:

  • securing windows, doors and floors of common parts of the building,
  • rubble and waste disposal,
  • levelling the surface for future installations and finishing.

Good substrate preparation eliminates later problems and improves the durability of the renovation.

 

Stage 2: Installations

Installation work is always carried out before the walls and floors are finished - this is the foundation for the safety and functionality of the dwelling.

 

Hydraulics

The scope of work includes:

  • replacement of risers (in the case of a detached house) and levels,
  • relocation of water and sewerage points,
  • preparation of approaches for bath, shower, washbasin and WC,
  • installation of new pipes in PEX or PP systems.

In general renovations, the entire installation is usually replaced with a new one.

 

Electrics

Assumes:

  • making new circuits,
  • arrangement of sockets and light points,
  • Installation preparation for white goods, LED lighting, kitchen appliances,
  • installation of switchgear and protection.

New electrical installation increases the standard and safety of the flat.

 

The role of technical acceptance

After plumbing and electrics, a technical acceptance is carried out, preferably with a qualified person to confirm:

  • correct installation,
  • compliance with standards,
  • no leaks,
  • correctness of protection against electric shock.

Only after acceptance can the next step be taken.

 

Stage 3: Walls, ceilings, floors

This is the moment when the flat starts to take shape.

a) Plaster, plaster, plasterboard

Typical works include:

  • new plastering,
  • filling and smoothing,
  • erecting plasterboard walls,
  • installation of installations,
  • levelling surfaces for painting.

Smooth walls are the basis for an aesthetically pleasing finish.

b) Suspended ceilings

They are installed to:

  • concealment of cables and infrastructure,
  • LED lighting installation,
  • to lower the rooms or create light decorations.

Suspended ceilings improve the acoustics and aesthetics of the interior.

c) Flooring, panels, stoneware

At this stage:

  • self-levelling or traditional screeds are made,
  • installs panels, vinyl, wood or porcelain stoneware,
  • installs skirting boards.

Once the floors are done, the flat is ready for the final stage.

 

Stage 4: Interior finishing

This is the most satisfying moment of the renovation - the interior takes on a final look.

(a) Painting

Includes:

  • priming,
  • painting twice,
  • possible improvements and decorative accents.

High-quality paints prolong the longevity of the effect.

b) Installation of lighting

It installs:

  • headlamps,
  • LED lighting,
  • wall lamps,
  • LED strips in enclosures.

It is an element that combines aesthetics with functionality.

c) Mouldings, doors, carpentry joinery

  • fitting of internal doors,
  • installation of skirting boards and ceilings,
  • made-to-measure furniture (kitchen, wardrobes, RTV),
  • installation of white goods and bathroom fittings.

After these works, the flat is ready to move in.

 

Summary

The general refurbishment of a flat is a complex process consisting of many stages: from the dismantling and replacement of installations, through construction work to the final finishing touches. The key to success is good planning, precise design and working with a proven team that will carry out all the work in the right order.

How do I choose a company to renovate my home?

Renovating a home is a major undertaking that requires careful planning and a professional approach. Choosing the right renovation company is crucial to the final result. Here are some steps to help you find the perfect contractor for your flat renovation.

1. Reliable Search: Before deciding on a particular company, carry out thorough market research. Check customer reviews, online reviews, and ask for references from friends and family. Reliable information from other customers can provide valuable insights into your experience with a particular company.

2. Experience and Skills: When choosing a renovation company, pay attention to their experience and skills in the specific types of work you plan to carry out. Make sure the company's specialists have knowledge and experience in the area you are interested in, such as painting, floor laying or plumbing upgrades.

3. Licences and Insurance: Make sure the renovation company is properly licensed and insured. This will give you peace of mind that they are professional and that you have protection in case of any problems. Remember that not having a licence may result in lower costs, but increases the risk of unpleasant surprises.

4. Accurate Offers and Cost Estimates: Interview at least a few renovation companies and ask for accurate quotations and estimates. Try to get a full understanding of the scope of work, including materials and completion times. Avoid companies that are unable to provide clear and precise information.

5. Written Agreement: Once you have chosen a company, make sure that all arrangements are reflected in a written contract. Write down in it details of the scope of work, timescales, costs, as well as any guarantees. This is a safeguard for both parties and will make it easier to resolve any disputes.

In summary, selecting the right company for a home renovation requires time and attention. A carefully conducted search and clear arrangements with the contractor are key to achieving satisfactory results during the renovation.

Although a carefully planned renovation can bring a lot of joy, sometimes choosing the wrong renovation company can result in unpleasant consequences. If you have found yourself in a situation where the professionals do not meet your expectations, there are steps you can take to rectify the situation.

**1. Communication: In the first instance, try to talk to the company and explain your concerns or dissatisfaction. Sometimes problems stem from a lack of communication, and an honest conversation can help you find a solution. Make your expectations clear and discuss what can be improved.

2. Contract provisions: Review the contract you have signed with the renovation company. See if it contains clauses on quality standards, deadlines, and possible penalties for failure to meet the contract. If the professionals do not meet the contract stipulations, you may have grounds for further action.

3. Complaint and Guarantee: Check whether the works are covered by a guarantee. If so, report any faults or shortcomings to the company within a certain period of time. It is also worth checking that you have a right of complaint under current consumer law. Make sure that any objections are made in writing.

4. Seeking Outreach: If the renovation company is unresponsive, you can seek help from consumer institutions, the consumer ombudsman or local trade organisations. Gather documentation, such as photographs showing errors or irregularities, so that you have a solid case.

5. Termination of the Contract: If all attempts to rectify the situation fail, consider terminating your contract with the renovation company. Remember that in some cases you may be entitled to a refund of some or all of the money you have paid in the event of work that has not been carried out or has not been carried out properly.

In a situation where we have chosen the wrong professionals, it is crucial to act in accordance with the law and contractual provisions. Remember that each case may be different, so we recommend consulting a lawyer for individual advice and support. In the future, it is also advisable to think carefully about your choice of renovation company and to scrupulously analyse references and feedback from other customers.

Renovating your bathroom is not only about improving the functionality of this important room, but also an opportunity to create an aesthetically pleasing and relaxing space. However, before you start work, it's worth thinking about a few key points to plan your renovation efficiently and without unnecessary complications.

1. creation of the Plan:
Start by creating a detailed renovation plan. Determine what changes you would like to make - whether it's replacing tiles, installing new fixtures and fittings or perhaps changing the layout of the room. The more specific the plan, the easier it will be to keep control of the project.

2 Budget:
Determine a realistic budget for your bathroom renovation. Make a note of the cost of materials, professional labour, and any additional expenses. Also anticipate some financial provision for unforeseen circumstances to avoid unexpected complications.

3. Choice of Style and Colour:
Decide what style you want to achieve in your new bathroom. Should it be modern spa, classic elegance or perhaps fresh minimalism? Your choice of colours and style will help you choose the right materials and accessories.

4 Technical condition check:
Thoroughly check the condition of your plumbing and electrical systems before starting work. If necessary, have it professionally inspected to avoid unpleasant surprises during the renovation.

5. Selection of Materials:
Think about what materials you want to use in your bathroom. Tiles, furniture, fittings - everything should work together and match the overall style. It is also worth considering materials that are easy to clean, especially in the humid environment of the bathroom.

6 Employment of Professionals:
Choosing experienced professionals is crucial for a successful renovation. Look for reviews and references, check the experience of renovation companies. Good specialists will advise you, help you with your ideas and speed up the whole renovation process.

7. distribution of Work:
Plan the work schedule to avoid unnecessary delays. Determine the order in which the various works will be carried out so that the whole process runs smoothly.

8 Preparation of the Work Zone:
Before the professionals start work, prepare the work zone. Secure other rooms, furniture, and be prepared for any possible obstructions to the bathroom.

Embarking on a bathroom renovation can be an exciting challenge, and proper preparation is the key to success. Remember to plan carefully, budget thoughtfully and work with experienced professionals to enjoy the results of your work for many years to come.

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