Planning
How to plan your renovation budget
A renovation budget is more than the floor area multiplied by a single rate. A more useful approach is to list the costs separately and connect them to the scope of work.
Start with a scope of work
List the spaces that will change and the work needed in each one. Separate essential work from improvements you can postpone. Different teams may understand the word renovation differently.
Split costs into four groups
Separate labour, technical materials, finishes and other costs. Other costs may include design, delivery, waste removal, furniture or appliances. Check that you have not counted a cost twice or missed a major item.
Compare one change at a time
When comparing two floor or tile options, keep the other assumptions the same. This makes the cost of that choice clear. The budget tool on the homepage follows this principle.
Show your contingency separately
Keep the allowance for unexpected work visible. Its size depends on the property condition and the work still to be defined. You choose the percentage in the calculator; the example is not a company recommendation.
Compare quotes for the same scope
The total alone is not enough. Check which materials, work and extra costs each quote includes. Before deciding, have the team assess the property and agree the scope in writing.