Top 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make During Renovations

Renovating your home? Here's what not to do

A home renovation can be exciting, but it's also a serious investment. Whether you're planning a rear extension, kitchen remodel, or full property refurbishment, avoiding the most common pitfalls can save you time, money, and stress. Here are the top 5 mistakes we regularly see homeowners make during renovations:

1. Underestimating the Budget

Many homeowners only budget for materials and labour but forget about extras like waste removal, structural changes, building control fees, or temporary accommodation. Always build in a contingency of at least 10-15%.

"We see it all the time — a project runs out of steam because the client didn’t expect structural reinforcement to cost extra or underestimated trades like plastering."

2. Not Getting Detailed Quotes

Vague estimates lead to vague results. Ensure your builder provides a written quote with clear line items for each part of the work. This helps you compare accurately and avoid disagreements later.

"You want apples-to-apples when comparing quotes. Always ask: what's included, what isn't, and how are variations handled?"

3. Skipping Planning Permission or Regulations

Even small projects can require permission or need to comply with building regulations. Don't assume your builder will handle this unless it's stated in writing.

"We've had to pause projects mid-way because previous contractors ignored the rules. It can delay work by weeks and cost thousands."

4. Hiring Based on Price Alone

The cheapest quote can end up being the most expensive. Always check for experience, insurance, references, and reviews.

"We’ve been called in to fix too many jobs gone wrong because a builder disappeared mid-project or didn’t deliver on quality."

5. Changing the Scope Midway Without Process

Last-minute changes to layouts, finishes or scope will disrupt timelines and budgets. Make sure there's a clear variation process in place.

"Changes happen, but they need to be tracked properly. Otherwise, it’s chaos."

Final Thoughts

A successful renovation is all about planning, clear communication, and choosing the right team. At Mastercraft Building Contractors Ltd, we help clients across South East London, North West Kent, and Mid Kent avoid these mistakes by providing full transparency, experienced project management, and detailed quotes from the start.

Serving: Dartford, Bexleyheath, Eltham, Sidcup, Gravesend, Maidstone, and surrounding areas.

Ready to start your renovation? Book an appointment or contact us today for expert guidance.