Step by Step Guide to DIY Home Renovation

The decision to undertake a home renovation can be both daunting and exciting. As a waste removal and recycling business, SKIPZ Recycling has seen it all when it comes to the renovation process. With skip bin hire services in Melbourne and Brisbane, we have worked with hundreds of residential home renovators. Below we explore some of their shared experiences and learnings so you can avoid the pitfalls of a self-managed home renovation.

Budgeting

A huge trap when planning a renovation is to underestimate the ancillary costs associated with any building works involving structural changes. Before commencing a renovation or extension, you must have a clear understanding of all the costs involved so you can draft a realistic budget.

Fees – A home renovation is not merely the cost of the builder, there are a plethora of other costs to factor into your final budget. Council building permits are required when any structural works are planned – even the addition of a basic pergola may require a building permit.

Whilst it can be tempting to bypass applying for a permit due to time and cost constraints, it is unwise. When it comes time to sell the property your conveyancer will draw up a Section 32 as part of the sale, in which you may be required to provide evidence of a building permit for any renovations, changes or additions you have made.

Council officers may also notice any changes as part of other activities they undertake. In this instance, you will likely be fined or worse, the structure or changes may need to be removed or rebuilt.

As part of the demolition process, positioning a skip bin on the roadside will also attract a fee. Permit costs are examined in further detail below.

Contingency – All budgets should include a buffer or contingency amount to cover unforeseen expenses. Many renovators view this as a luxury they can ill afford but budget blowouts are the norm rather than the exception, particularly when renovations involve older homes.

Once the builder starts pulling away inner walls, structural, electrical wiring or plumbing issues can become evident and these will need to be addressed for work to continue. A minimum contingency amount of 10 per cent of the total cost of the project is recommended.

Professional services – If your renovation project involves structural changes, you will also require the services of an architect to draw up plans and blueprints. Fees will depend on the size and complexity of the project but budget for around five to eight percent of the total build cost.

Relocation – Finally, larger renovations may mean that you have to move out of the home for an extended period. Renting alternative accommodation and moving or storing furniture should be factored into your budget.

Project Management

For those planning to manage the renovation process themselves, you will need to undertake research into and get quotes from, qualified builders, electricians, plumbers, tilers and kitchen designers.

Do not pay the full cost of the project upfront. It is reasonable for your builder or tradesperson to expect you will outlay the cost of materials before works commence but make it clear that you will only pay the balance when you have confirmed that the work has been completed to code and to the standard and finishes you agreed upon.

Permits and approvals

Council permits are generally required for any building works where structural changes occur. You will need to appoint a building surveyor for any project requiring a building permit and permits are submitted through them. You may be surprised at how small changes still need approval to ensure your project complies with local council building codes and regulations.

The cost of the building permit will vary by council and by the scope of work. As a guide, in suburban Melbourne, for minor works (up to $15,000) a permit may be around $1,000 whereas larger ($15,000 – $50,000) may attract a fee in the ballpark of $2,700.

Skip bin permits – When it comes to fees and the application process for permits for skip bins in Melbourne, council regulations vary from other cities like Brisbane.

In Brisbane, skip bin placement, regardless of road or driveway, does not require a permit. Conversely, in suburban Melbourne, permits vary by council as to the fees. In the city of Melbourne precinct, permit fees can be more than the hire cost of the skip itself! Fortunately, SKIPZ skip bins attract a flat rate fee of $170 and we will work with you to organise a permit.

Timing

One of the major frustrations involved in the renovation process is the submission of your building permit application. The wait for the council to respond can seem interminable.

Even straightforward building permit applications can take between one to four months or longer before being approved. There will also be the inevitable back and forth as clarifications and amendments are requested.

Anticipating these delays can lessen the angst arising from waiting for approval. Before submitting your application, research council regulations and speak to neighbours who have already gone through the process. Things which may cause blowback or rejection from the council include overlook or privacy concerns, driveway width and accessibility and a wide range of other hurdles.

Demolition and waste removal

Once you have your drawings completed, planning permits approved and tradesmen lined up, the demolition works can commence. Demolition typically starts with the removal of existing fixtures, walls or structures. This is where SKIPZ’s expertise comes to the fore. We deliver and collect hook and marrel skip bins designed to fit into the tightest driveway or narrowest street and, if the roadside placement is required, can work with you to arrange council permits at the lowest cost on the market.

Works commence

During the renovation process, an inspector is likely to visit your property to monitor the works to ensure they meet industry code standards relating to:

Structural integrity – foundations, Structural framing and testing, quality control, load bearing capacity, seismic design, fire resistance, materials standard and design loads
Electrical wiring – circuit design, wire size and type, outlet placement, grounding (GFCIs), circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and compliant meter boxes
Plumbing – waterproofing, ventilation, clearances, accessibility and drainage

Project managing a renovation yourself will mean you should be onsite every day to monitor works and answer any tradie questions. This will ensure you get it right the first time.

Final walkthrough

Once everything has been completed, conduct a final walkthrough to address any outstanding issues, check finishes and confirm you got what you paid for.

Renovate responsibly

SKIPZ Recycling is at the forefront of waste recycling advancements. We have an aversion to contributing to landfill and utilise state-of-the-art deconstruction, demolition and disposable recycling treatments. Collected soil, concrete, timber and metal are processed through Green Star accredited recycling facilities to remove impurities and then turned into high-value, customer-engineered building materials. These recycled materials are then channelled into civil construction and public infrastructure projects. Best of all, this service costs you no more than it would to use a skip bin that tips directly into landfill!

Do the planet a favour. If you are undertaking a renovation in Melbourne or Brisbane and need fast and affordable skip bin hire, visit the Book a Skip page on our website or give us a call on 1300 335 822 to speak with one of our friendly sales team.