Renovations rarely go exactly as planned, and one of the biggest surprises for homeowners is unexpected costs. Factoring in a buffer from the start helps you avoid financial stress.
Common Hidden Costs:
-
Structural Issues: Discovering rotten timber, foundation cracks, or termite damage during demolition.
-
Outdated Wiring or Plumbing: Old systems may need full upgrades to meet safety codes.
-
Permit & Inspection Fees: Often overlooked when setting the initial budget.
-
Material Price Fluctuations: Timber, steel, and tiles can rise in cost due to supply shortages.
-
Waste Removal: Skip bins, haulage, and disposal fees can quickly add up.
-
Temporary Living Costs: Renting elsewhere or eating out more often while your kitchen is under renovation.
-
Design Changes: Last-minute upgrades or layout tweaks always increase costs.
How to Prepare:
-
Set aside at least 10–15% of your budget for surprises.
-
Get detailed, itemised quotes from trades.
-
Ask contractors upfront about possible extra charges.
-
Do inspections before starting, to uncover hidden problems early.