Full Apartment Renovation: Steps, Timeline and Tips
How to plan a full apartment renovation in Istanbul, what stages it involves, and the key tips that speed up the process? Expert answers inside.
2026-07-30 · 6 min read
Transforming an old apartment into a modern living space in Istanbul's varied districts is not only an aesthetic decision but also a complex process legally, technically, and financially. This article breaks down the steps that lead to a written fixed-price quote after a free site survey, outlines a typical project timeline, and highlights Istanbul‑specific considerations. You’ll get quick answers to common questions and the confidence to move forward in the decision phase.
1. Pre‑Planning & Free Site Survey
The first step is a site survey that documents the current condition of your apartment. Our architectural team measures floor plans, load‑bearing walls, plumbing and insulation. At this stage we also check the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s “Zoning and Title” status; for historic buildings a permit from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is mandatory.
- •Survey report → written fixed‑price quote (usually within 2‑3 business days)
- •Around 30‑40% of the budget is allocated to material and furniture selection
2. Design Approval & Permit Process
Architectural plans, structural reports and interior drawings are submitted to the municipality. In heavily regulated districts such as Beşiktaş or Şişli, approval can take 2‑4 weeks. During this phase, you must also obtain the “Operation Permit” and “Common Area Use Permit” from the building management.
- •Structural report – mandatory if load‑bearing walls are altered
- •Energy efficiency report – required for new windows and insulation
3. Demolition & Infrastructure Works
This stage includes removal of old walls, replacement of plumbing and electrical lines. Because of Istanbul’s humid climate, walls must be waterproofed and a moisture barrier (e.g., 0.5 mm PE foil) installed before new gypsum board is applied.
- •Plumbing – water pressure and pipe diameter (typically 1.5 bar in Istanbul)
- •Electrical – 16 A circuit protection and TSE‑certified cables are recommended
4. Interior Finishes & Final Works
Gypsum board, acoustic insulation, floor covering (parquet, laminate, tile) and kitchen/bath cabinets are installed at this stage. In districts like Kadıköy and Üsküdar, low elevation requires waterproofing tests (EN 12056) to be performed.
- •Floor → 60‑70% tile, remaining 30‑40% wood/laminate (depending on usage)
- •Kitchen cabinets → modular system, 15‑20% of budget
5. Inspection, Handover & Warranty
The finished work is inspected by an independent auditor; any deficiencies are corrected within 7 business days. Güven Kardeşler provides a 2‑year workmanship warranty and material warranties according to the manufacturers’ terms.
- •Handover protocol – includes photos and measurement report
- •One free maintenance visit per year during the warranty period
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the typical duration for a full renovation?
- In Istanbul, a full renovation of an 80‑120 m² apartment, including permit approvals, usually finishes in 8‑12 weeks. If permits are delayed, the total can extend to 14‑16 weeks.
- Can I modify a load‑bearing wall in an old building?
- Yes, but you must obtain a structural report and municipal approval. Without a statics engineer’s report, altering a load‑bearing wall is illegal and voids insurance coverage.
- How should I coordinate with the building management during renovation?
- Get the work schedule approved in advance, obtain common‑area usage permits, and respect noise hours (08:00‑20:00). Attending the management meeting to report progress builds trust.
- Which materials are best for energy efficiency in Istanbul?
- Double‑glazed windows (U‑value ≤ 1.1 W/m²K), 30 mm insulated exterior wall cladding, and LED lighting are the most effective. Low‑flow faucets also help reduce water consumption.
Planning a renovation?
Free survey, written fixed price, contract and warranty. No obligation — see the price first, then decide.