Transform Your Space with Top-Rated Renovators Near You
Find your Renovator who speaks English.
Richard
Eva
RENEST
Oliver
Mor
Hugo
I hired Richard to build some furniture for our new house - a table, a few chairs, and some other pieces. Communication was easy since we share the same language,...
We moved into our house and six months later the walls were still bare, so I brought in Eva to do interior styling room by room because of our cash...
The team did a complete renovation on my house, including the bathroom, new electrics, and underfloor heating, and I am very happy with the result. Although it went a little...
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...
Working with Mor was a fantastic experience. She took charge of the entire remodeling process and offered us options, making it seamless for first-timers like us. The project wrapped up...
I recently had Hugo and his team work on some repairs in my home, and it was the best experience we've had. They were serious about their commitment and always...
Frequently Asked Questions
Ballpark costs in Lisbon vary by scope: cosmetic refreshes €150–400 per m², full apartment renovations €700–1,200+ per m², kitchens €7,000–25,000, bathrooms €4,000–12,000. Prices are set by each service provider and paid directly to them; they are not listed on Locallista. Ask for itemised quotes, VAT and permits clarified.
Many internal, non-structural works need no permit, but structural changes, altering plumbing/electrics, window replacements or façade works typically require municipal approval from Câmara Municipal de Lisboa. Your architect or contractor can advise the correct route and timings. Always confirm with your building’s condominium for any additional rules or permissions.
Timelines depend on scope and materials. Cosmetic updates may take 1–3 weeks, a kitchen or bathroom 2–6 weeks, and a full apartment renovation 6–16+ weeks. Allow extra time for permit approvals, supplier lead times, and August or holiday slowdowns common in Portugal.
Request recent references, visit completed projects, and review independent ratings. Ask for a detailed, written scope, timeline and payment schedule, plus proof of insurance. Choose renovators with English-speaking project managers to avoid misunderstandings and confirm how they handle snagging, changes, and progress reporting.
A clear quote should itemise labour, materials, brands and finishes, waste disposal, site protection, and any permit or design fees. It should define start and completion dates, milestones, warranty terms, and exclusions. Ask for a fixed price where possible and clarify hourly rates for variations.
Most companies use staged payments tied to milestones, with a modest deposit and instalments as work progresses. Always pay the service provider directly against formal invoices; prices are set by them and are not listed on Locallista. Avoid paying the full amount upfront and keep receipts.
Yes, but protected properties may require heritage approvals and specialised methods, which can lengthen timelines and raise costs. Choose renovators experienced with azulejos, timber structures and traditional plaster. Early consultation with an architect and the municipality helps define what is permissible before you commit.
Lisbon has many English-speaking renovators and design-and-build teams used to working with expats. They can provide bilingual contracts, explain local processes, and coordinate trades on WhatsApp or email. Always confirm who your day-to-day contact is and how often you’ll receive updates.
Most condominiums set house rules on working hours, noise, lift protection, and rubble removal. You may need prior approval for structural work or changes affecting common areas. Respect quiet hours, typically 23:00–07:00, and book waste containers or parking where required to avoid fines.
Ask for a written warranty on workmanship and the duration, plus manufacturer warranties for fixtures and appliances. Agree a snagging process at handover and a timeframe for corrections. Keep manuals and invoices for future maintenance and to support any warranty claims.
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Dos and Don’ts to choose the right Renovators as an Expat
Smart choices: dos and don’ts for hiring the right renovators for your project
Select renovators who demonstrate strong communication skills, ensuring they are responsive and keep you informed about project progress. Good communication builds trust and helps to quickly address any issues that may arise during renovations.
Look for service providers who exhibit flexibility and creativity in problem-solving. Renovation projects often encounter unexpected challenges, and having a contractor who can adapt and find solutions is crucial for a successful outcome.
Opt for renovators known for their punctuality and adherence to timelines. Reviewers consistently commend those who complete projects as scheduled and maintain efficiency, avoiding unnecessary delays that can disrupt your plans.
Ask for recommendations from previous clients and review their past work to gauge quality and satisfaction levels. Successful projects and satisfied customers are strong indicators of a renovator's reliability and skill.
Choose renovators who demonstrate strong communication skills. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings and unforeseen issues during the renovation process, ultimately affecting both the timeline and the quality of the end result.
Opt for contractors with a proven track record of punctuality. Delays can snowball into larger issues, disrupting schedules and potentially incurring additional costs. Always inquire about their history of meeting deadlines before hiring.
Avoid engaging renovators who provide unclear or vague estimates. Ensure that prices are transparent and documented to minimize financial surprises during and after the project. Detailed outlines of costs can safeguard against budget overruns.
Prioritize renovators who consistently leave spaces clean and tidy after work. A messy site can reflect poor professionalism and indicate a lack of attention to detail. Clear expectations regarding site cleanliness should be set upfront.
Select contractors who exhibit flexibility with their schedules to accommodate changes. Renovation projects often evolve; having a provider who is willing to adjust their availability can save stress and help keep the project on track.
Ensuring a successful renovation requires more than just vision; it demands the right partnership with skilled renovators. By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you can navigate the renovation landscape with confidence, setting the stage for a smooth process and exceptional results. Focus on clear communication, verify flexibility and punctuality, and always seek recommendations to make informed choices. Conversely, steer clear of vague estimates and poor communication, as these can lead to frustrating setbacks and unsatisfactory outcomes. With these guidelines in hand, you’ll be empowered to choose a renovator who not only meets your needs but exceeds your expectations.
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