Renovation Costs

How Much Will My Renovation Cost?

This is one of the most common questions I get from new clients, and understandably so. It’s a bit like asking, “How much do a pair of shoes cost?” Naturally, a pair from Prada will carry a very different price tag to one from Kmart. Similarly, the renovation’s Cost of Works can vary widely depending on a range of factors.

Here are the main elements that influence renovation costs:

• Project size – Unsurprisingly, the larger the renovation, the higher the overall cost.
• Number of wet areas – Kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, and other wet areas are labour-intensive and require the highest concentration of trades, fixtures, and fittings.
• Materials & finishes – The materials you choose can significantly impact the overall cost. For example, in 2013, the square metre rate for a window was around $500, while constructing a stud wall was approximately $120 per square metre. Naturally, larger glazing areas will increase your costs.
• Fixtures & fittings – Items like ovens, taps, and lighting vary greatly in price, depending on brand and quality.
• Joinery – Custom joinery can be expensive, and the more you have, the higher the cost.
• Existing dwelling works – Renovations may require additional work such as re-stumping, rewiring, or replastering, which adds to the overall cost.
• Number of levels – Adding or renovating a second storey increases costs due to scaffolding, access, and structural requirements.
• Site access – Tight or restricted sites can make construction more challenging, impacting labour and equipment costs.
• Ground conditions – Reactive or difficult soil may require deeper footings or additional engineering solutions, increasing expense.

Ultimately, understanding these factors helps you set realistic expectations and plan your budget more accurately. Every renovation is unique, and costs are determined by the combination of these elements.

If you have a project in mind, we’d love to hear about it. You can reach us here.