Apartment renovation step by step: process, 2026 prices and common mistakes

A complete apartment renovation is a 6–12 week project that easily overruns without a plan. Here is the proven sequence we use for our renovations — and the prices you can expect in 2026.

The right order of works

1. Design and budget: layout, wiring and plumbing on paper before anything is demolished.
2. Demolition: floors, bathroom cores, partitions; debris removal.
3. Rough installations: new wiring, water and drainage — in chases and floors.
4. Masonry and drywall: new partitions, boxing, ceilings.
5. Plasters and screeds: wet processes that need drying time.
6. Tiling: bathroom, WC, kitchen splashback.
7. Fit-out: sanitary ware, switches, doors, kitchen.
8. Floors and painting: final layers last, so they don't get damaged.

What does an apartment renovation cost in 2026?

A 65 m² apartment thus comes to roughly CZK 1.0–1.3 million depending on standard. Prices excl. VAT.

The 7 most common mistakes

• Underestimating the budget — keep a 10–15% reserve for hidden defects (especially in older flats).
• Renovating "in pieces" without an overall plan — new floors first, then chasing walls for wiring.
• Keeping old services — aluminium wiring and old risers are best replaced right away.
• Skimping on bathroom waterproofing — the most expensive mistake you can make.
• Missing permits/notifications for structural interventions.
• Ordering the kitchen and doors late — 4–8 week lead times can stall the whole job.
• Working without a contract and itemised budget — claims become impossible later.

How long does it take?

We complete a typical 2- or 3-room apartment in 6–10 weeks depending on demolition scope and drying of wet processes. You'll receive an exact schedule together with an itemised budget after an apartment inspection — free and non-binding.