Renovating a home in Lisbon as a foreigner comes with two extra challenges: verifying that a contractor is genuinely licensed, and finding one that communicates clearly in English.
This guide explains how licensing works in Portugal, what a renovation realistically costs in Lisbon, and which companies stand out — so you can hire with confidence even from abroad.How contractor licensing works in Portugal
Every legitimate construction company in Portugal must hold a licence — an alvará (for larger works) or a certificate (for smaller ones) — issued by IMPIC, the public construction regulator. You can verify any company's licence for free on the IMPIC portal by searching its tax number (NIPC). The result shows whether the licence is active, its class (which caps the value of works the company may execute) and the categories of work it covers. This is the single most important check before signing anything. On top of it, Portuguese law grants a statutory 5-year guarantee on building works (Article 1225 of the Civil Code) — make sure it is stated in your contract.What a Lisbon renovation costs
As a market reference, a full apartment renovation in Lisbon runs roughly €800–€1,000 per m² — a 80 m² T2 typically lands between €60,000 and €80,000 for a complete intervention, and considerably less for partial work. Lisbon's older buildings (pombalino and gaioleiro structures) can hide structural surprises, so a proper technical visit before quoting is non-negotiable.Renovation companies to consider in Lisbon
BluePeak
BluePeak is a licensed Portuguese construction and renovation company with a permanent team in Lisbon and nationwide coverage. It publishes its credentials for anyone to verify: construction licence (alvará) no. 110497 – PAR, Class 2, issued by IMPIC — searchable online by tax number 517230844. What it does: Full and partial renovations of apartments and houses — including bathroom renovation in Lisbon and kitchens — plus new-build houses, architecture and swimming pools. Strengths:- Free, itemised quotes after a technical visit: the approved price is the final price
- Statutory 5-year guarantee stated in writing in the contract (Art. 1225, Civil Code)
- Dedicated project manager and written deadlines — typical Lisbon apartment renovation: 4 to 8 weeks
- Experience with Lisbon's older buildings and condominium rules
- Published, verifiable licensing — rare transparency in this market
Urban Obras
Urban Obras is a national franchise network with a strong Lisbon presence, combining renovation with in-house architecture and interior design. Strengths:- Architects and designers on staff
- Turnkey projects with a defined aesthetic direction
Kaza Obras
Kaza Obras focuses on construction, rehabilitation and renovation in the Lisbon region, including older buildings. Strengths:- Experience with Lisbon urban rehabilitation
- Well reviewed on comparison platforms
MF Design & Build
MF Design & Build offers turnkey design-and-build services, with residential and hospitality projects in Portugal and abroad — a fit for clients who want design led from day one. Strengths:- Integrated interior design and build
- Experience with international clients
Zhome
Zhome – Construções e Remodelações specialises in home remodeling, including bathroom and kitchen renovations, mainly in the Lisbon area. Strengths:- Focus on kitchens and bathrooms
- Over a decade of renovation experience
