Improving a flat in London requires a different approach from improving a house. Most flats are held on long leases, which means the freeholder and the terms of the lease affect what alterations can be made. Understanding the leasehold context is essential before committing to any significant renovation work.
The first step is to review the lease and, where necessary, seek written consent from the freeholder or their managing agent before carrying out any structural alterations. Most residential leases require lessee consent for structural changes, for installing new kitchen or bathroom drainage, and sometimes for changing floor finishes from carpet to hard flooring. The latter is particularly relevant in flats above ground floor because hard floor finishes can cause impact sound complaints from neighbours below.
Kitchen and bathroom upgrades are typically the highest-impact improvements in a flat. As in a house, upgrading these spaces improves daily living quality and appeals strongly to buyers and tenants. In a flat, the drainage routing is often more complex because the position of soil stacks and drainage routes may be shared with other flats in the building.
Opening up internal walls to create a more open-plan layout is achievable in many flats but requires careful structural assessment. Walls in flats may carry loads from above, and in some cases walls that appear to be partition walls are in fact structural elements that support the floor or ceiling above. A structural engineer must advise before any walls are removed.
Electrical upgrades are often a priority in older purpose-built flats and converted houses. A full rewire in a flat, while disruptive, updates the installation to current standards and allows for additional circuits for kitchen appliances, bathroom lighting, and audio-visual equipment.
Storage improvements are a significant selling point in London flats because storage space is at a premium. Built-in wardrobes, under-stair storage, and customised utility spaces all contribute to the liveability and appeal of the property.
Decoration and presentation matter significantly in a flat because the absolute space is limited and the way the space is presented affects how spacious it feels. Light colours on walls and ceilings, good lighting, and quality floor finishes in the main living areas all contribute to a positive impression.
RCB Design and Build carries out flat refurbishments across London, coordinating all trades and managing the process with due regard for leasehold obligations and neighbour considerations in shared buildings.