A home renovation can be an exciting opportunity to transform your living space into something that truly reflects your style and needs. However, while the prospect of creating your dream home can be quite thrilling, the reality is that renovation projects can be fraught with challenges. It’s not unheard of for homeowners to encounter issues that can turn what should be a rewarding experience into a stressful ordeal.

SB2 Build is one of the house renovators and builders Dunedin homeowners trust, and over the years, we’ve helped plenty of residential property owners overcome common problems in their home renovation projects. We also know that spreading awareness about these issues is the first step in steering clear of them.

To that end, here’s a list of challenges that get in the way of a smooth home renovation process and how you can address them:

Budget Overruns

Even with meticulous planning, renovation costs can quickly spiral out of control. This can leave you with a hefty bill that exceeds your initial expectations. There are plenty of reasonable causes as to why your renovation budget can exceed your initially planned amount. You may end up underestimating the cost of materials, encounter unexpected structural issues, or need changes to the project scope, just to name a few.

Meticulous planning from the outset is key to avoiding overspending on home renovations. Develop a detailed budget that includes all expected costs and be sure to set aside a contingency fund—typically 10 to 20% of your total budget—to cover any surprises. Obtaining multiple quotes from contractors is a practical way of ensuring you’re getting a fair price. Also, avoid making changes to the project mid-way as much as possible, as the costs of these changes can add up quickly.

Delays in Project Timelines

It’s not unusual for renovation projects to take longer than expected due to unforeseen problems, such as hidden damage or delays in material delivery. These can be frustrating, especially if you’re living in the home during the renovation or have a strict deadline to meet.

Considering how delays are a common occurrence, it’s a good idea to build a level of flexibility into the project’s schedule. Another effective way of keeping delays at a minimum is working with a reputable contractor that offers a realistic timeline for the job right from the start. You can count on SB2 Build for this. In addition to offering a good estimate of when the project will be completed, our team also puts a high value on client communication. You can count on us to keep you updated on every progress and setback that we encounter during the renovation. This way, we can avoid any unwanted surprises and guarantee to finish your project on time.

Poor Communication with Contractors

In relation to the last point, effective communication with your contractor is vital to the success of your renovation. A lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings, mistakes, and dissatisfaction with the final result. If you’re not clear about your expectations with your contractor or don’t regularly check in on the project’s progress, you may find that the work doesn’t align with your vision.

So, from the start, establish clear communication channels with your contractor. Have regular meetings to discuss the project’s progress, as well as any potential issues. It’s also a good idea to document all decisions and changes in writing so that there’s no confusion later on.

Unforeseen Structural Issues

During any renovation, there’s always the possibility of uncovering structural issues. Problems such as mould, faulty wiring, or structural damage can be lurking beneath the surface and only become apparent once work has begun. These issues can significantly impact your renovation timeline and budget, as they often require immediate attention and repair.

The best way to minimise the impact of these surprises is to conduct a thorough inspection before the renovation begins. This can help you identify potential problems early on and plan accordingly. However, keep in mind that even with a thorough inspection, some issues may not be immediately apparent. As such, it’s essential to remain flexible and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.

Changing Design Plans Mid-Project

Making significant changes when the renovation is already underway can lead to increased costs, delays, and a final result that doesn’t align with your plans. For example, altering the layout of a room or changing the materials used can require additional work and resources. These can quickly escalate costs and extend the timeline.

Avoid the temptation to make changes mid-project by spending extra time in the planning phase to finalise your design. Consider all your options and make all critical decisions before the work begins. If changes are necessary later on, make sure to discuss them with your contractor as soon as possible to minimise their impact on the project.

Inadequate Permits and Inspections

Failing to obtain the necessary permits or schedule inspections is a common mistake in construction projects that can have serious consequences. Skipping these steps can result in fines and delays. You might even be ordered to redo work to meet local regulations. Additionally, unpermitted work can make it difficult to sell your home in the future, as it may not be up to code.

Simply put, before the work starts, obtain all the necessary permits. Work with your contractor to schedule required inspections and make sure the work complies with all local regulations. Staying on top of these details may seem like a hassle, but it’s essential for ensuring the safety and legality of your renovation.

Find a Reliable Home Renovation Partner in SB2 Build

Navigating the challenges of a home renovation can be daunting, but with the right planning and a good renovation contractor by your side, you can avoid many common issues. A skilled and reliable contractor will not only deliver high-quality work but also help you manage the project effectively, from staying on budget to keeping the timeline on track.

If you’re planning to renovate your home in Dunedin or any of the surrounding areas, get in touch with SB2 Build so we can help you with every step of the process. Our team is qualified and properly licensed, and we can handle residential renovation work from start to finish. In addition to renovations, we can also take care of grand designs for homes and new home builds. Call us today to enquire about our services.