Planning an extension: foundations, slabs & costs—a 2025 guide before breaking ground
Planning a home extension in South Africa? This 2025 guide covers costs per m², foundations & municipal approvals. Get a realistic budget & avoid costly mistakes.
Building contractor prices depend on several factors. We have examined prices of different services and what influences them and pointed out what you need to pay attention to in order to get the best value for your money.
Building cost per square metre
The cost of building a house is normally measured in rand per square meter of floor area. The larger the floor area, the higher the total cost. In addition to size, the cost of building is also influenced by location, design, project management, and construction type and quality. The average cost of a building cost per square metre is R10,000/sqm, or typically between R8800/sqm and R11,000/sqm.
Get quotes3-bedroom house — cost per sqm
Even though we are witnessing a rapid increase in the proportion of two bedroom homes in SA, three-bedroom houses are still the most popular choice. A spacious 3-bedroom house can measure up to 200 sqm, but it usually measures between 120 and 150 square metres. The average cost of a 3-bedroom house is R14,000/sqm, or typically between R8800/sqm and R19,000/sqm.
Get quotesHome renovation
A home renovation involves all the building, craftsmanship and installation work needed to turn a dilapidated old building into a modern, energy-efficient home. There are many factors that affect the total cost, e.g. type of work and the extent of the renovation involved. Even the quality of the materials and the chosen accessories affect the cost of the renovation. On top of the estimated costs, you can add additional 20% to your home remodel budget for any unseen problems. The average cost is usually R1800/sqm.
Get quotesBathroom renovation
A bathroom renovation can range anywhere between giving your bathroom a facelift and a complete transformation of your bathroom. The total expense depends on the size of the bathroom, the chosen materials, and the type of fixtures, counters and finishes. Bathroom renovation costs range between R19,000 and R69,000 with an average of R44,000.
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Whether you want to build a granny flat for your family or to generate extra income, the first thing is getting the right contractor for the job. The best approach is to obtain multiple quotes from granny flat builders and compare them carefully, because the cheapest quote may not include everything on your wish list. The final cost largely depends on the chosen materials and your location. The average cost is usually R380,000.
Get quotesAll-inclusive kitchen renovation
A complete kitchen renovation includes more than just a new lick of paint, a new backsplash, and new light fixtures. It often includes making structural, electrical, and plumbing changes, new flooring, appliances, and custom cabinets. The total expense varies depending on the size and complexity of the remodel, the chosen materials, and any high-end technology additions. For all-inclusive kitchen renovation, expect to pay between R63,000 and R190,000.
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