Post‐construction renovation is the journey from bare walls to a fully finished apartment ready to move into. Many buyers in Tbilisi and Batumi face questions such as: what stages are involved, how much does renovation cost per square meter, and how to choose a reliable team? This article provides a structured analysis based on real prices and typical situations in the Georgian market.
What does apartment renovation after the developer include?
1. Rough work
This is the foundation of renovation. The service life of the finish depends on the quality of the rough work.
Main processes:
- leveling walls and floors;
- screeding (semi‐dry or cement);
- installation of electrical and low‐voltage systems;
- water supply and sewerage layout;
- preparation for final finishing.
| Type of work | Price (₾/m²) in Tbilisi | Price (₾/m²) in Batumi |
|---|---|---|
| Floor screed | 25—40 | 30—45 |
| Wall leveling | 20—35 | 25—40 |
| Electrical installation | 18—25 | 20—28 |
Deadlines
The rough stage takes 3—6 weeks, depending on the area and complexity.
2. Final finishing
Once the basic processes are complete, the stage that shapes the appearance of the apartment begins.
This includes:
- installing flooring (laminate, parquet, tile);
- painting walls or hanging wallpaper;
- installing doors;
- installing plumbing fixtures;
- ceiling structures.
| Material / service | Average price (₾/m²) |
|---|---|
| Laminate flooring | 35—70 |
| Tile with work | 60—120 |
| Painting walls | 12—20 |
| Door installation | 120—250 per unit |
Deadlines
4–8 weeks if the materials are already on site.
3. Comprehensive turnkey renovation
For those who want to delegate the entire process and receive a finished result.
What is included:
- design;
- purchasing materials;
- electrical and plumbing work;
- rough and finishing work;
- final cleaning.
| Level of repair | Price per m² |
|---|---|
| Economy | 350—450 ₾ |
| Comfort | 500—750 ₾ |
| Premium | 800—1200 ₾ |
Common mistakes when renovating after the developer
- No project plan. Without electrical and plumbing diagrams, the risk of rework increases.
- Incorrect screed. Cheap mixtures lead to cracks after 6—12 months.
- Untested craftsmen. There are many private teams in Georgia, but not all of them work under contract.
- Saving on electrical work. A common cause of overheating sockets and short circuits.
- Purchasing materials in advance. Humidity in Batumi can damage laminate flooring or drywall during storage.
How to choose a contractor for repairs in Tbilisi and Batumi
- Check at least 3–4 projects. Reliable craftsmen always have current projects that you can view in person.
- Contract and estimate are mandatory. Specify the deadlines, cost per square meter, and responsibility for materials.
- Transparent payment system. The best option is to break it down into stages: rough work → finishing work → final touches.
- Test task. For example: level 5 m² of wall or install 2 sockets. This shows quality without risk.
Facts
- In Georgia, average renovation costs after construction are 20—30 % cheaper than in the EU.
- In Batumi, prices are on average 10—15 % higher due to seasonal demand.
- Up to 60 % of all alterations are related to faulty electrical work and screed.
- One in three customers chooses a turnkey renovation.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. How much does it cost to renovate an apartment after the developer in Georgia per m²?
On average, from 350 to 750 ₾/m², depending on the quality of materials and the scope of work.
2. How long does a complete renovation take?
Usually from 2 to 4 months: rough, finishing, and final work.
3. What does a turnkey renovation include?
Design, procurement, rough/finishing work, quality control, and handover of the property.
4. Is it possible to save money without compromising on quality?
Yes: choose local brands, plan ahead, and check the estimate.
5. Do you need a designer for a post‐developer renovation?
Not necessarily. But a design plan helps to avoid mistakes and overpayments.
6. Do Georgian teams work under contract?
Yes, most companies have a contract. When working with private craftsmen, it is better to draw up a contract yourself.