Renovations are exciting—they bring the chance to reimagine your space, improve functionality, and add value to your home. But if you dive in without the right preparation, that excitement can quickly turn into stress, delays, and unexpected costs. Before you start tearing down walls or choosing finishes, it’s worth slowing down to ask the right questions. These will help you set realistic expectations, plan effectively, and avoid some of the most common renovation pitfalls.
Here are the top 10 questions to ask before starting a renovation:
1. What’s my budget—and is it realistic?
A renovation budget should cover more than materials and labour. Include permits, professional fees, and a contingency (typically 10–20%) for unexpected surprises. Being honest about your budget up front helps guide decisions and avoid disappointment down the line.
2. What’s my timeline?
Ask yourself how soon you want the project completed—and how flexible you can be. Renovations almost always take longer than expected due to weather, supply chain delays, or scope changes. Setting a timeline with built-in buffer room will save a lot of stress.
3. Do I need permits or approvals?
Even small projects may require permits, especially if you’re altering plumbing, electrical, or structural elements. Skipping this step can lead to fines, delays, or issues when selling your home later. Your contractor or project manager can help navigate this.
4. How will this renovation affect daily life?
Will you need to move out temporarily? Where will meals be cooked if the kitchen is under construction? Thinking ahead about living arrangements and routines can help minimize disruption.
5. Who will manage the project?
Decide whether you’ll hire a contractor, project manager, or handle coordination yourself. Renovations involve multiple trades and timelines—clear accountability is key to keeping things on track.
6. What are my “must-haves” vs. “nice-to-haves”?
Defining your priorities helps control scope creep. If budget cuts are needed, you’ll know which features are non-negotiable and which can be scaled back.
7. How will this renovation add value?
Some upgrades—like kitchens, bathrooms, and energy efficiency improvements—tend to bring strong returns. Others may be more about lifestyle than resale value. Knowing your goal helps guide smart investment decisions.
8. Am I choosing the right materials?
Durability, maintenance, and cost all matter. It’s tempting to chase the latest design trend, but ask whether it will stand the test of time in both function and style.
9. What could go wrong—and how will we handle it?
Renovations uncover surprises: outdated wiring, hidden water damage, or structural challenges. Discuss how change orders will be handled and what contingency is in place.
10. Do I trust my contractor and team?
Perhaps the most important question. A renovation is a partnership, and communication is everything. Take time to research references, check past work, and make sure you feel comfortable with the people handling your home.
Final Thoughts
A successful renovation is about more than picking paint colours or layouts—it’s about asking the right questions early. The more prepared you are, the smoother the process will be, and the more likely you’ll end up with a space that feels both beautiful and functional.
