5 Common Renovation Mistakes , And How to Avoid Them

Renovating your home can be one of the most exciting things you do.
New spaces, better living, improved comfort , it’s your chance to shape your house around your lifestyle.

But with all that potential comes risk.

We’ve worked on many renovation projects, and we’ve seen where people often get it wrong. The good news? With a little foresight, these mistakes are easily avoided.

Here’s a detailed look at 5 common renovation mistakes , and how you can steer clear of them.

1. Not Setting a Realistic Budget

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement.
You start with a rough figure in mind, but as the project unfolds, costs start creeping up. Materials, finishes, little extras , they all add up.

How to avoid it:

• Do your research. Understand the average cost of similar projects in your area.
  
  
• Include a contingency. We recommend adding 10-15% for unexpected issues , because something always comes up.
  
  
• Be honest with your builder. A good builder can help you shape the project to suit your budget, without surprises later.
  
  

2. Ignoring Planning Permission and Regulations

You might assume you can start building , especially with smaller projects. But some renovations require planning permission, especially in conservation areas or listed buildings.

How to avoid it:

• Check with your local planning authority early.
  
  
• Consider working with an architect or builder familiar with local rules.
  
  
• Even if your project falls under permitted development, building regulations still apply.
  
  

3. Choosing Price Over Quality

We all want a good deal. But when it comes to building work, cheaper isn’t always better. Poor workmanship can cost more in the long run, both in money and stress.

How to avoid it:

• Get multiple quotes , but don’t just look at the bottom line.
  
  
• Ask about materials, timelines, and how they handle unexpected changes.
  
  
• Look at reviews, testimonials, and examples of previous work.
  
  

4. Overlooking Practical Details

We’ve seen beautiful renovations that just don’t work in real life.
Doors that bang into each other, plug sockets in the wrong place, rooms that look great but feel awkward to use.

How to avoid it:

• Think about how you live. Where do you need storage? How do you move through the space?
  
  
• Talk to your builder about functionality, not just finishes.
  
  
• Consider lighting, heating, and ventilation from the start , not at the end.
  
  

5. Trying to Manage Everything Yourself

It’s tempting to be hands-on. After all, it’s your home.
But managing a renovation project is a full-time job, especially if multiple trades are involved.

How to avoid it:

• Consider hiring a project manager or working with a builder who can coordinate everything.
  
  
• Stay involved, but trust the professionals.
  
  
• Focus on decisions that need your input , and let them handle the rest.
  
  

A home renovation can be transformative , if it’s done right.
Avoid these common mistakes by planning ahead, asking the right questions, and surrounding yourself with a team you trust.

Next Step: Ready to make your renovation smooth and stress-free? Check out our other blogs for more tips on planning, budgeting, and getting the most from your home improvement.