The Correct Order of Trades in a London Renovation: What to Book When

Why the Order of Trades Matters in a London Renovation

Every London renovation, from a single bathroom refurbishment to a full whole-house project, involves a sequence of trades that must follow a logical order. Bringing a trade onto site before the preparatory work is complete, or scheduling two trades to work in the same space at the same time without coordination, causes delays, rework, and additional cost. Understanding the standard sequence before you start booking gives you the ability to plan realistically and to identify in advance where the critical path of the project lies.

The standard sequence for a residential London renovation is broadly the same regardless of the scale of the project, although the detail varies. The principle is that invasive, disruptive, and structural work comes first, followed by concealed first fix services, then surface finishes, and finally the visible second fix installation of fittings and appliances. Deviating from this sequence is sometimes necessary due to site constraints or programme pressures, but the consequences must be understood and managed.

Phase One: Structural and Enabling Works

The first phase of any London renovation covers the works that affect the structure of the building or that require access before other trades can proceed. This includes demolition of non-structural partitions, removal of existing fixtures and fittings, structural alterations such as new openings and steel beams, any excavation for extensions or drainage, and damp proofing or waterproofing works. The property must be watertight, meaning the roof, windows, and external doors must all be weather-resistant, before any plumbing or electrical first fix begins. Water ingress after first fix is one of the most damaging events on a London renovation site.

During the structural phase, the plumber and electrician should visit the site to mark up service routes and confirm positions for pipework chases, penetrations through structural elements, and drainage connections. Agreeing these positions before the structural works are complete saves the cost of retrospective chasing and drilling through already-completed masonry.

Phase Two: First Fix Services

First fix covers all the services work that goes into the building fabric before it is closed with plaster or render. The standard order is plumbing first fix, then electrical first fix, with heating and ventilation running alongside. Plumbing first fix covers all water supply and waste pipework, the central heating circuit pipework to all radiators, the boiler flue penetration, and the underfloor heating pipework if applicable. All pipework must be pressure tested before the walls are closed. First fix electrical covers cable runs, back boxes, and any conduit. The two trades must coordinate to avoid conflicts at penetrations through joists and in congested areas such as airing cupboards and kitchen service zones.

Phase Three: Plastering and Second Fix

Plastering begins only after all first fix trades have signed off their work and pressure tests have been completed. In a London renovation where plastering is carried out wet using traditional sand and cement or gypsum plaster, the drying time before decoration and second fix can be significant, typically three to four weeks for a newly plastered house to reach a moisture level suitable for decoration. Second fix brings the plumber back to install radiators, sanitaryware, and the boiler, and the electrician to fit sockets, switches, and light fittings. Decorating and floor finishes follow second fix, with the kitchen and bathroom fit-out representing the final phase. Prestige Engineers provide first and second fix plumbing and heating services on London renovation projects and are experienced in coordinating with other trades throughout the programme.