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Home Renovation Tips

CHOOSING THE RIGHT BUILDER FOR YOUR HOME RENOVATION

HOW TO AVOID THE DODGY BUILDERS

​Renovating your home can be exciting, but it also comes with risks if you’re not properly prepared. From budget blowouts to structural issues and non-compliant work, cutting corners in the early stages often leads to costly mistakes down the track.

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One of the most important steps in any renovation journey is choosing the right builder. In Sydney, it’s essential to work with a licensed, experienced, and insured builder who understands the National Construction Code, Australian Standards, and local council requirements. A quality builder will not only deliver a beautiful result but also ensure your renovation is structurally sound, compliant, and built to last.

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This page is designed to guide you through key renovation tips to help you plan with confidence. Whether you're upgrading a bathroom, extending your living space, or doing a full home transformation, these insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and choose a builder who gets it right the first time.

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IMPORTANT: 11 Essential Checks Before Hiring a Builder or Contractor

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1. Scope Of Works

Does the Building Team fully understand your requirements and scope?

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Have you been provided a detailed scope of work and quotation that includes all the inclusions and exclusions of the project? 

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2. Helpful Building Advice

A reliable builder doesn’t just build, they guide. Look for someone who takes the time to understand your goals, offers honest advice, and helps you make informed decisions throughout the renovation process.

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An experienced builder should also have a thorough understanding of the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian Standards. This knowledge allows them to design and deliver solutions that are not only visually appealing but also structurally sound, compliant, and practical for the long term.

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A strategic builder will help you avoid common pitfalls, plan ahead for potential issues, and ensure the finished result meets both your expectations and legal requirements. Choosing the right builder from the outset can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.

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3. Executed Contract

A detailed, written contract is essential before any renovation work begins. It should clearly define the full scope of work, project timelines, payment stages, and how variations or disputes will be managed. This protects both the homeowner and the builder by setting clear expectations and reducing the risk of misunderstandings.

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Important: In New South Wales, a written contract is legally required for any residential building work valued over $5,000. Never proceed without one in place.

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4. Building Licence Check

Perform a building licence check on the NSW Fair Trading website. A tradeperson must be licensed for any home construction work valued over $5K and must be licensed to perform the class of work that's authorised on their license.

 

For example, a carpenter and landscaper cannot carry out general building work. Only a licensed builder can. 

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- Check building licence now -

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5. Home Warranty Insurance

The Home Building Compensation Fund provides a safety net for homeowners in NSW faced with incomplete and defective building work carried out by a builder or tradesperson.

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Licensed builders who take on residential work valued at $20,000 or more must obtain insurance coverage through HBCF. 

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For more information:  - NSW Fair Trading -

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6. Public Liability Insurance

In NSW, all licensed builders must hold Public Liability Insurance. It protects you from costs related to property damage or injury during the build.

 

Always ask for proof before work begins. It is a basic safeguard for your home and your peace of mind.

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7. Professionally Accredited Builder

When selecting a builder, professional accreditation is a key indicator of credibility and commitment to industry standards. Builders who are members of recognised associations such as the Master Builders Association (MBA) or the Housing Industry Association (HIA) are held to higher standards of workmanship, ethics, and ongoing professional development.

 

Accredited builders are more likely to stay up to date with changes in the National Construction Code, Australian Standards, and best practices in residential construction. These affiliations provide homeowners with added assurance that the builder operates within a recognised and accountable framework.

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8. Working In & Around Live Environments

Ensure you select a builder who understand the sensitivities of operating in live environments. The Builder should take extreme safety measures and use strategies to minimise inconvenience to the building occupants. 

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9. Check Google Reviews

Before hiring a builder, take the time to read their client reviews across various platforms, including Google, social media, and industry directories. Reviews offer valuable insight into the builder’s reliability, workmanship, communication, and ability to deliver on time and on budget. Consistent positive feedback is a strong indicator of professionalism, while repeated complaints may signal red flags. 

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10. Commissioning Certificates & Warranties

Ensure the Builder will provide you with Commissioning Certificates and Warranties which meet the Australian Standard, 6 years for major defects and 2 years for all other defects, commencing from the date when the work was completed.

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Our standard waterproofing warranty is 10 years; extended warranties of 15 or 20 years can be purchased. 

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11. Project Communication Expectations

Like any relationship, excellent communication is essential for success. A good Building Team will provide a clear understanding at the beginning of the renovation and keep you informed throughout the entire project. 

Questions

Can I live in my home during the Renovation? 

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In most cases our clients can live in their home during renovations, however this depends on the size of the project. We adopt strategies that minimise the inconvenience to homeowners. This understanding comes as a result of delivering hundreds of projects occupied in residential and commercial buildings. Each project containing its own challenges that we took the time to understand and plan around.

What is the average cost of a home renovation?

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Bathroom Renovations

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  • $5,000 - $15,000 for a cosmetic makeover or smaller bathroom renovation using budget materials and fittings.

  • $15,000 - $25,000 for an average-sized mid-range renovation using mid-range materials and fittings

  • $25,000+ for a high-end bathroom renovation using top-of-the-range materials and fittings.

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Kitchen Renovations


Average renovation cost: $20,000-$50,000

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Living Room Renovations 


Average renovation cost: $7,000-$15,000​

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Landscaping & Decking 

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Average total cost: $12,500- $44,500

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© Copyright - All Right Reserved - Building Inspections Sydney 

NSW Builder's Licence: 313945C

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