Before You Start

Ready, Set, Wait… Before you start home renovations

If you're thinking about undertaking major renovations to your existing home, it's important to spend some time planning the project to ensure the process runs smoothly.

BuildingWA.com.au got some helpful tips for a successful home improvement from Seb Mairata, General Manager of Dale Alcock Home Improvements.

1. Find a reputable and professional builder

"The best way to do this is through word of mouth. Talk to friends. Find out who they used and if they were happy with the results." Seb also suggests you check any builder's track record. "Ask a prospective builder for references, maybe three or four clients that they've done work for. Phone the clients and ask whether they had a good or bad experience. Also ask to see the builders work firsthand."

2. Draw up a firm budget

Seb advises that if you're planning to move soon, you should be careful not to spend more than you can recoup from your sale price.

You might think the expensive finishings are worth every penny. But will prospective buyers know the difference between Italian tapware and a less expensive alternative? Perhaps a less expensive version would do the job just as well – you'll still have a new bathroom to attract a buyer, but won't be out of pocket.

Seb's advice for controlling costs:

Get competitive quotes and find out what things are worth

Break costs down. Don't just look at the cost of the bathroom, look at the cost of each item. This process will give you some idea of where the money is being spent and if it's the best place to spend it.

Remember that your time is money too. By all means, run around on the weekend and choose the kitchen appliances that you like, but ask yourself if your time is best spent putting hours into jobs that might be best handled by an expert.

3. Be aware of council regulations

Find out all the information you can before you engage a builder. "Many extensions must be approved by the council before work can commence. An experienced and professional builder should liaise with your local council to ensure your home improvement meets all regulations, and obtain all relevant planning and building approvals", advises Seb.

If you are planning a DIY renovation, it is very important that you are aware of any regulations or restrictions in your local area. You may risk a hefty fine if your renovations do not adhere to these regulations. Contact your local council for more information.

4. Know your start and completion dates

Communicate with your builder and/or tradespeople and come to an agreement of realistic start and completion dates for your project. "If you have a specific date that the job must be finished by, let your builder know." Seb urges renovators to keep in mind that unexpected problems can hold up your project, no matter how well you have planned it. "Understandably, you will want your home finished in as short amount of time as possible, however, keep in mind that is just as important to focus on quality as it is to meet the deadline".

Seb's final piece of advice is to communicate with your builder. "Ensure you let your builder know everything you want from your home renovation - design elements, timeframes, budget, any special requirements etc. If your builder is aware of all aspects of your project upfront, they can ensure it's done to the highest quality, on budget and on time. Then you get to enjoy a home that is everything you hoped for!"