Avoiding costly home renovation surprises
Planning a home renovation can be exciting - but without a realistic budget and proper planning, your renovation can quickly spiral out of control. Here’s how to budget smarter - and avoid those all-too-common (and expensive) surprises:
Start with a clear scope - and stick to it
Many renovation blowouts begin with a vague or changing scope of works. Before you start, write down exactly what you want to achieve, room by room. Ask yourself:
- What are the must-haves versus nice-to-haves?
- Are there structural changes, or is it mostly cosmetic?
- Will you live in the home during the renovation or relocate?
Once you’ve set a scope, stick to it. Constant changes mid-project - known as variations - are one of the biggest drivers of budget overruns. Sometimes they are heartbreaking.
Understand the true costs - not just the build
It’s easy to focus solely on builder quotes, but your total renovation budget should include:
- Professional fees: architect, building consultant, engineer, certifier, insurances
- Planning approvals (especially for heritage or bushfire zones)
- Demolition and waste removal
- Temporary accommodation, if required
- Fixtures and finishes such as tiles, tapware, cabinetry and lighting
- Contingency fund: typically 10–20% of the project cost
Know what lies beneath
Older homes in South Australia can come with hidden surprises - asbestos, outdated wiring, termite damage or poor structural work from past renovations. These issues often only become apparent once work begins and can be expensive to rectify. It’s a bit like exploratory surgery for buildings.
Engaging an experienced building consultant before you start can help identify these hidden risks and give you a much clearer picture of what lies ahead.
Don’t rely on online cost estimates
Renovation costs you see online - especially on renovation TV shows or from overseas sources - rarely reflect the reality of building in South Australia. Materials, trades and compliance requirements vary, and every site presents different challenges.
Engage a local, qualified professional to get realistic estimates that account for your location, property and goals.
Choose the right builder - and the right contract
A well-documented contract protects both you and the builder. Make sure it:
- Clearly defines the scope of work
- Lists inclusions and particularly the exclusions
- Details payment stages
- Sets out warranties and who is responsible for insurances
Avoid handshake deals or overly vague quotes. An experienced building consultant can review contracts and help you understand the fine print before you commit.
Factor in time as a cost
Renovations often take longer than expected. Delays can happen due to weather, material shortages, planning approvals or variations. If you're living off-site, remember that time = money.
Planning realistically and allowing for some buffer time in your schedule can help avoid stress and financial strain.
Bring in a building consultant early
Many of the renovation horror stories our members encounter could have been avoided with early professional advice. An experienced building consultant can reduce risk, help you stay on budget and avoid being blindsided mid-project by:
- Reviewing your plans for feasibility
- Identifying compliance requirements
- Helping to prepare realistic budgets
- Providing independent advice during construction
- Helping you avoid prime cost items, especially where the allowance is unrealistically low
If you’re thinking of renovating then start smart by contacting a member of the Association of Building Consultants to help guide your renovation journey - so your dream upgrade doesn’t turn into a financial nightmare.
More great tips and information at www.buildinginspectors.org.au
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