You cannot steer a project without orders of magnitude. Here are the ranges observed in France in 2026 (materials + labour, outside the Paris region where you add 15-25 %) and the typical split between trades — to spot an abnormal quote at a glance.
The 3 renovation levels
| Level | Scope | Price per m² |
|---|---|---|
| Refresh | Paint, floors, minor repairs | €250 – €600 |
| Full renovation | + electrics, plumbing, partitions, bathroom, kitchen | €800 – €1,400 |
| Heavy renovation | + structure, full redistribution, complete insulation | €1,400 – €2,200+ |
The typical split of a full renovation
Where to save without losing quality
- Materials bought direct: on the flooring line, buying your wood floor direct from the mill saves 30-40 % — on 100 m², that pays for the whole flat's paint.
- The right order: every redo caused by a trade coming too early costs double — see the order of works.
- Subsidies: insulation at R ≥ 3.7 unlocks French renovation aid — see internal insulation.
- Quotes: 3 minimum, itemised (materials/labour split), and beware any trade 30 % above or below the ranges.