A homeowner’s guide to planning a hassle free home renovation

Get the right permits

In Australia, certain types of construction project require a permit. Generally speaking, they include any kind of large scale renovation that involves changes to the external structure of the building. So, for example, you’d likely need a permit to build new windows and doors or add a conservatory. Internal renovations don’t usually require specialist approval, but it is important to check with the local authorities before you begin.

Source high quality equipment

You may also need to think about hiring equipment. The easiest way to find out whether this is necessary is to speak with your contractor about the kind of tools that will be needed for the job. If specialist equipment is required, it may be up to you to hire it from a reliable provider.

Establish a sensible budget

While it certainly isn’t impossible to complete a renovation project on a tight budget, you have to be realistic about what is and isn’t attainable, with regards to your personal limits. Resist the temptation to opt for ambitious or complex designs unless you know for sure that you can finance them. The last thing that you want is to run out of cash halfway through a renovation.

Choose the finest materials

If there is one area where you shouldn’t skimp, it’s on raw materials. If you have to make compromises anywhere, don’t make it here, because the quality of the materials will determine how tough and long lasting your renovation will be. The good news is that vendors and suppliers are used to haggling, so feel free to try your hand at talking your way to a great deal.

Take accurate measurements

This might sound like an obvious piece of advice, but scores of homeowners fall victim to inaccurate measurements every year. If you’re dealing with pipework, cabinets, or reasonably sized fixtures, rough measurements are not enough. They need to be spot on, because even a few centimetres or millilitres of inaccuracy can lead to problems.

Stay engaged and involved

You will, of course, have to fit your work and family life around the renovation project and this can be tough in cases where a whole room (like the bathroom) is under construction. It is unlikely that you’ll need to be on site all the time, but even if your contractor is pretty happy to get on with the job independently, you should still stay engaged and involved. This means asking questions, monitoring progress, and speaking directly with builders and technicians.