Pre-Renovation Planning Checklist

Hidden problems (asbestos, rotten framing, failed waterproofing) only reveal themselves during demolition. Without contingency, you'll be making panic decisions mid-project.

Budget, mid-range, or premium? This decision affects every material choice and tradie quote. Mixing tiers (premium tiles with budget fixtures) looks awkward.

Use our free permit checker tool. Extensions, structural changes, pools, and large sheds almost always need approval. Unapproved work causes problems when you sell.

Tradies can't quote accurately if you haven't decided what goes in the room. Select (or shortlist) taps, tiles, vanity, benchtop, and appliances before requesting quotes.

The cheapest quote often has the smallest scope. Compare what's included in each quote. A $25k quote that includes demolition, waterproofing, and tiling is better than a $20k quote that doesn't.

A bathroom reno needs 4-6 trades in sequence. Are you scheduling them yourself or paying a builder to project-manage? Self-managing saves money but costs time and stress.

You won't have access to the room being renovated. If it's your only bathroom, organise alternatives. If it's the kitchen, set up a temporary cooking station.

Notify your home insurer about the renovation. Standard policies may not cover renovation work, builder's risk, or increased replacement value after the reno.

Start date, completion date, payment schedule tied to milestones, variation process, and what triggers a price change. Legally required for jobs over $5,000 in most states.

Photos of existing walls, floors, plumbing, and electrical are essential if a dispute arises later. Also useful for insurance claims.