Expert Construction Companies You Can Rely On
Find a construction company that speaks English.
RENEST
Oliver
Bruno
Angelo
Faiek
PIO
I hired Roy’s company, Renest, for renovation works in four apartments in the same Lisbon building, handling procurement A to Z so I didn’t need to think about it and...
Oliver's work on my shower floor was excellent. I can now walk into my shower with absolute confidence because of the non-slip coating he applied. Both Oliver and his partner...
I renewed my house inside, almost everything, about 80%. My opinion is positive in terms of price and delay, the delay was what we had planned, the renovation lasted less...
When I needed someone to assess a property I was considering purchasing, Angelo came through with professionalism and extensive knowledge. He evaluated the property thoroughly, pinpointing potential challenges with ease....
From the moment they started the project, I felt at ease with the team's dedication. They transformed our old bathroom completely, evening out an uneven wall and installing new fixtures....
Asaf is giving technical support on my residential project in Beato, Lisbon - kind of fiscalization to make sure everything is going according to the project. It is an ongoing...
Frequently Asked Questions
Start by shortlisting construction companies in Lisbon with consistent reviews and recent, comparable projects. Ask for an itemised, like-for-like quote, a clear timeline, and named site supervision. Confirm English communication, weekly updates, and how change orders are handled. Always check insurance, references, and who manages permits.
Yes—many Lisbon construction companies work in English, especially those used to international clients. Confirm an English-speaking project manager, WhatsApp/email updates, and bilingual documentation where needed. For contracts and technical drawings, ask for English summaries alongside Portuguese originals to avoid misunderstandings and speed up approvals.
Ballpark ranges vary by scope: light refurbishments often run €300–€700 per m², full apartment renovations €800–€1,500 per m², and high-end or structural projects can exceed €1,800 per m². Kitchens/bathrooms commonly add premiums. Prices are set by each provider and paid directly to them; they aren’t typically listed on directories.
In Lisbon, minor internal refurbishments may proceed with simple notification, while structural, facade, or layout changes usually require council approval. Depending on complexity, approvals at Câmara Municipal de Lisboa can take 1–6+ months. Factor this into your programme and confirm the application route early with your architect or contractor.
Indicative durations: cosmetic apartment refresh 3–8 weeks, standard renovation 3–6 months, extensions/loft conversions 5–9 months, and new builds 12–18 months. Lead times for custom joinery, windows, or imported finishes can extend schedules. Ask for a baseline programme with milestones and update meetings to track progress.
A robust Portuguese contrato de empreitada should define scope, drawings, materials/specs, start/finish dates, milestones, payment schedule, and VAT. Include change-order procedures, site rules, waste removal, warranty/defects periods, and delays/penalties. Attach an itemised bill of quantities and exclusions to avoid disputes and keep renovation costs transparent.
Request an itemised orçamento with quantities, unit rates, and brand/quality allowances so quotes are comparable. Ensure VAT (IVA), scaffolding, site protection, permits, and waste disposal are clearly included. Challenge provisional sums, ask for lead times, and clarify what is excluded to prevent surprise extras during construction.
Expect weekly site meetings or photo reports, especially if you’re abroad, plus documented inspections at key milestones. At handover, create a snagging list and agree dates for rectification. A defined defects liability period, references from past clients, and viewing completed Lisbon projects help verify workmanship quality.
Payments are usually staged: a small mobilisation deposit, milestone payments on verified progress, and a final payment after snagging. Some clients retain a modest holdback until completion. All prices are set by the contractor and payments are made directly to them—always request formal invoices and receipts.
For structural alterations, extensions, or planning-sensitive areas, an architect typically designs and handles council submissions. A project manager or a design-and-build contractor coordinates trades, schedules, and budgets—useful for expats managing works remotely. For small like-for-like refurbishments, a capable general contractor may suffice.
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Dos and Don’ts to choose the right Construction companies as an Expat
Smart choices: dos and don’ts for hiring a construction company
Select a construction provider who demonstrates excellent communication skills. Ensure they provide regular updates and are responsive to your inquiries, as this will help you stay informed throughout the project and prevent misunderstandings.
When considering a construction company, look for testimonials or reviews that highlight their reliability and quality of work. A proven track record of punctuality and craftsmanship gives you confidence in their ability to complete your project successfully.
Choose a contractor who provides clear and straightforward pricing with no hidden fees. Understanding the full scope of expenses upfront can help you avoid unexpected cost overruns and maintain budget control throughout your renovation.
Seek construction companies that demonstrate a capacity for creative problem-solving when unexpected issues arise. This adaptability indicates they can manage challenges effectively and keep your project on track without compromising quality.
Choosing a construction provider without verifying their communication skills can lead to frustration during the project. Look for reviews that mention timely updates and responsiveness, as poor communication may result in misunderstandings and project delays.
Be wary of hiring construction companies that have a history of poor time management. Delays can significantly impact your project timeline and lead to increased costs. Ensure that the contractor has a reputation for meeting deadlines and managing multiple projects effectively.
Avoid contractors who neglect proper documentation and authorization protocols. Ensure that they provide clear documentation for every stage of the project. Lack of diligence in this area can lead to unauthorized work and disputes down the line.
Do not presume that all contractors provide transparent pricing. Look for feedback that highlights honesty with quoted prices and no hidden costs. This diligence can prevent unexpected expenses that may arise during the construction process.
While long-standing relationships with contractors might seem reliable, do not base your decision solely on recommendations. Evaluate recent reviews and the contractor's current performance to ensure they are consistently delivering quality work.
Selecting the right construction company is crucial for transforming your vision into reality while ensuring a smooth journey throughout the project. Excellence in communication, a verified track record, transparent pricing, and adept problem-solving skills will serve as your keys to success. As you navigate through your options, keep these dos and don'ts in mind. They will guide you to avoid common missteps, allowing you to forge a partnership that fosters trust, efficiency, and remarkable results. By prioritizing these principles, you'll ensure that your construction experience is both positive and fulfilling.
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