Renovating your house? Here’s where to start

So you’ve decided to renovate your house. Maybe you’ve just purchased a “fixer-upper”, or perhaps you’ve been spending the last few years dreaming up your ideal home.

Once you’ve made the decision, it can be an exciting adventure but also a daunting one. You’ll need to figure out many things, like your renovation budget and timeline. But there are also some big things you may not have considered yet.

Learning about the renovation process can help you in the long run, so you don’t run into any big surprises. Armed with the knowledge of these tips can help make any renovation process run smoother and cause you less stress along the way.

Before anything else…

Always check with local authorities about required permits—even minor renovations may need approval. Skipping permits can lead to hefty fines or, worse, forced demolition.

Depending on your project, you may need a planning permit, a building permit, or both. An accredited building surveyor can clarify the requirements, and your local building board can confirm if registration is necessary.

Keep in mind that larger budgets may mean stricter regulations. Also, ensure you or your builder have proper insurance coverage.

A building permit application may need to include:

• Professionally-drawn plans
• A copy of your land title or deed
• A copy of your planning permit
• Building specs, or specifications
• An analysis of the site

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1. Pay first, build second

When applying for permits, you’ll often need to pay various fees, including:

• Building permit fee – Based on your project’s cost and complexity.
• Government levies or taxes – Varies by location.
• Local filing fees – Required for processing.
• Damage bond – May apply to cover potential property damage.

Additional permits may also be necessary for projects on flood-prone land, easements, or near property boundaries. Your drafter or architect can help determine specific requirements.

Once permits are approved and fees paid, you can start construction knowing everything complies with local regulations.

2. Create a vision

If you’re investing time and money in a renovation, make sure the result aligns with your vision. Unless you’re renovating to sell or make it a standout real estate listing, prioritise designs that bring you joy.

For example, if you don’t love granite countertops, skip them—there are plenty of alternatives. Avoid feeling pressured by contractors by having a clear plan and sticking to your priorities. Whether you want a full remodel or a simple refresh, your renovation should reflect your needs.

To clarify your vision, consider:

• What do you want to achieve with this renovation?
• What factors should you consider?
• How do you want your home to look after the renovation?

3. Prepare for anything

Renovation mishaps aren’t just reality TV drama—they happen. While you can set timelines with professionals, delays from equipment issues or shipping setbacks are common. Minimise surprises by scheduling a thorough inspection before work begins.

Hiring reputable professionals also helps prevent problems. Seek recommendations, check reviews, and verify credentials, including their Better Business Bureau status.

You can avoid delays by understanding local regulations and permits. Every city has different codes, so ensure compliance to keep your project on track—no surprise wall removals included.

4. Identify your flooring needs

Not all flooring is created equal, so consider more than just looks. Some materials require more upkeep, while homes with kids or pets may need extra durability. Consult a flooring expert to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

A professional can measure your space, assess the subfloor, and flag potential issues. The climate also matters—some floors don’t hold up well in extreme temperatures or humidity.

Flooring is just one example. Discuss all material choices with your contractor, from specialty bathroom drywall to how hard water might affect fixtures. Remember: a great design should also stand the test of time.

5. Be mindful of the details

Your contractor should guide you through the process but don’t hesitate to ask questions. Double-check measurements to avoid ordering fixtures that don’t fit or running out of materials mid-project.

Think beyond construction—how will you use the space once it’s finished? Stay focused on each stage to keep your timeline on track.

A renovation checklist can help, including materials, budget, tradespeople, inspections, permits, and design details. Customise it to your needs and update as you go to stay organised and avoid overspending.

6. Anticipate the mess

Dust spreads everywhere during renovations, no matter how well you seal off the area. Don’t forget to pack away delicate items, like antique rugs, to protect them from dirt and debris.

Covering carpets and furniture and using zippered plastic to section off rooms are also recommended. While air purifiers help, dust will still settle, so cover vents and expect some cleanup.

After the work is done, dry dusting is the safest way to clean without damaging surfaces or affecting air quality. Consider hiring a professional cleaner so you won’t have to do everything alone.

7. Know your power tools

Starting a home renovation can feel overwhelming, but the right power tools make it more efficient, especially for DIY projects,

Essential tools for beginners include a cordless drill for drilling and driving screws, a circular saw for straight cuts, and a jigsaw for curves and intricate shapes. Reliable brands in Australia include DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Certa, Ozito, Dynalink, Ryobi, and Mitre.

Investing in these tools from reputable brands will help you confidently tackle your renovation.

Should I do a renovation course?

DIY and home decorating can be fun, especially if you’re fixing a property to use or sell. While TV makeover shows make it look easy, proper education and preparation are key. You can learn some basics online or from books, but a course offers the best way to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.

Choosing a course

Choose a course that aligns with your goals. If you plan to handle most of the work, a building course may be more beneficial than a renovation course, which focuses on hiring the right people.

A renovation course covers key topics like selecting properties, sourcing materials, and maximising profit when selling. It also teaches you how to negotiate with builders and tradespeople. Logistics like planning, budgeting, and scheduling are essential, as well as understanding permits, licenses, and taxes.

If you need to brush up on renovation skills, find a course that matches your needs and interests. The time and money spent now will save you more in the long run.

Consider factors like the teacher’s experience (ideally someone with extensive knowledge, perhaps even an author) and the course’s aims. Some courses offer certification, which is helpful if you plan to go professional, but it’s secondary for more personal projects.

Whether your renovation project is big or small, a course or workshop can provide valuable skills and insights that will benefit you both now and in the future.

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Start home renovation journey today!

With these tips in mind, you can turn your renovation dreams into reality. Stay focused, stick to your budget, and design a space you love—then sit back and enjoy the transformation, even if the journey gets tough.

Most importantly, have fun! You’re building the home you’ve always imagined. Capture every moment with photos to celebrate the progress along the way.

Planning and preparedness are key to a successful renovation, and now you have the tools and knowledge to make it happen.

Good luck!