Planning a Renovation? Read This First

Renovation projects are exciting — until something goes wrong. A botched job, a missed permit, or a budget that blows out by 40% can turn your dream reno into a nightmare. Most of these problems are avoidable with solid planning upfront. Here's what you need to know before a single tradie sets foot in your home.

1. Know what needs a permit

This is the step most homeowners skip, and it can cost them dearly. In Australia, many renovation works require a building permit, development approval (DA), or both — depending on your state and the scale of the project. Anything structural, anything that changes your home's footprint, or anything involving plumbing, electrical, or gas will likely need a permit. Cosmetic work — painting, flooring, replacing fixtures like-for-like — usually doesn't.

2. Set a realistic budget — then add a buffer

Get at least three detailed written quotes, then add 15–20% on top as a contingency. Unexpected issues — rotting joists, asbestos in the walls, plumbing that doesn't meet code — are extremely common in older Australian homes. Budget by category: structural, fit-out, finishes, and labour. This makes it easier to see where you can save and where you shouldn't cut corners.

3. Understand the order of trades

Works need to happen in the right sequence or you'll pay to redo things. The rough order: demolition → structural → rough-in (plumbing, electrical, data) → insulation → plasterboard → tiling → cabinetry → painting → fixtures → flooring. Make sure your builder or project manager understands the scheduling — if a painter shows up before the plasterer has finished, you have a problem.

4. Get everything in writing

For any job over $3,300 (in most states), a licensed contractor is legally required to provide a written contract. But even for smaller jobs, insist on a written quote detailing scope, materials, price, and timeline. Watch out for contracts that allow unlimited variations. A fixed-price contract is the safest option for homeowners.

5. Verify licences and insurance

Builders, electricians, plumbers, and gas fitters all need to be licensed in Australia. Check your state's licence register before anyone starts work. Also ask for a current certificate of currency for public liability insurance — minimum $5 million is standard. Unlicensed work can void your home insurance and create major problems when you sell.

6. Plan for where you'll live during the work

If you're doing a major renovation and staying in the house, factor in the disruption. Dust, noise, no kitchen access — it adds up. Some families find it cheaper and less stressful to rent a short-term place for the duration. If you do stay, agree with your builder upfront on working hours, which areas are off-limits, and how waste will be managed on site.

7. Know your rights if things go wrong

Each state has a building commission or fair trading body that handles disputes. For licensed contractors, you can lodge a formal complaint that may require them to fix defective work. For financial disputes, the state tribunal system (VCAT in VIC, NCAT in NSW, QCAT in QLD) handles claims without needing a lawyer. Your best protection is prevention: thorough vetting, written contracts, and staged payments that keep you in control throughout the project.