Radical Home Renovation: What You Need to Know

The need for energy upgrades and functional renovations of old apartments and houses in Greece is more pressing than ever. The “Exoikonomo” programs have given a significant boost to renovations, as they cover a significant percentage of the required work, reducing costs for the owner and encouraging investment in infrastructure and energy.

What is radical renovation according to urban planning?

A radical renovation (or large-scale renovation) is defined as a case where the total expenditure on the building envelope and technical systems exceeds 25% of the current value of the property, based on the minimum construction cost (excluding the value of the land).

What does a complete root canal treatment involve?

This type of renovation mainly concerns old buildings and apartments that are not considered suitable for habitation without significant intervention.

The main tasks include:

Interior remodeling: layout changes, demolition/construction of walls (with structural stability checks)
Static reinforcement of load-bearing structures, where required
Bathroom and kitchen renovation: new plumbing, tile installation, new furniture and equipment
Floor replacement
Repair and thermal insulation of roofs or flat roofs
Installation of new electrical and plumbing systems

Critical points for the owner:

Engineer present: Any work on structural elements (walls, beams) requires inspection by a civil engineer—mistakes can compromise safety.
Permits: The interventions determine whether a Small-Scale Permit or a full Building Permit is required.
Electrical and mechanical networks: Old ones need to be replaced—patches cost more in the long run.
Common areas: Any changes require the consent of co-owners and possibly urban planning approval.

Renovation Stages:

Requirements & Budget
Architectural & technical design with mechanical engineer
Time & financial planning
Issuance of required permits
Implementation of tasks – project supervision
Delivery & quality control

Calculation of building value for classification of renovation as “radical”

The value is based on the calculation of Construction Cost × Useful Area, in accordance with KENAK and YPEN 6949/72/FEK 408/B/2019.

What type permit is required?

Small-scale permit: For individual, non-permanent interventions
Building Permit: For extensive work, new networks, static reinforcements, etc.

The process is carried out electronically through the Building Authority, with a deposit by an authorized engineer.

At City Engineering, we undertake the entire process of designing, licensing, and executing radical renovations in accordance with applicable legislation and best technical practices.