The single biggest factor in how a renovation turns out is not the tiles or the tapware – it’s who you hire to do the work. The right renovator delivers on time, on budget and to a standard you are proud of; the wrong one can cost you far more than you saved by choosing them. The good news is that a handful of direct questions, asked before you sign anything, will tell you most of what you need to know.
Here’s what to ask.
Is Your Renovator Licensed?
In Victoria, domestic building work over a set value must be carried out by a registered building practitioner, and it’s entirely reasonable to ask for that registration up front. A licensed, registered renovator is accountable to an industry body and has met minimum standards to hold that registration. Ask for their registration details and check they cover the type of work you are having done. If a renovator is evasive about licensing, treat that as a warning in itself.
Do They Have the Right Insurance?
Insurance protects you if something goes wrong. Ask whether the renovator carries public liability insurance, and whether domestic building insurance (also called builder’s warranty insurance) is required and provided for your project. This cover matters if the builder can’t finish the work or if defects appear later. A professional renovator will answer this question without hesitation and provide evidence.
Questions to Ask About Their Experience
Experience specific to your job matters more than years in business alone. Ask how many kitchens or bathrooms like yours they have completed, whether you can see photos of comparable finished projects, and whether you can speak to recent clients. A renovator who’s proud of their work will happily point you to a portfolio and references. Look for relevant experience – a company that does beautiful kitchens may be exactly right for a kitchen and less so for a complex bathroom, so ask about the work that matches yours.
Questions to Ask About the Quote & Contract
A vague quote is where budgets go to die. Ask whether the price is fixed or an estimate, exactly what is and isn’t included, and how variations – changes and unexpected costs – are priced and approved. Ask to see the contract before you commit, and check that the scope, payment schedule and inclusions are written down rather than agreed on a handshake. Comparing two quotes only works if both spell out the same detail, so push for line-item clarity from everyone you ask.
Questions to Ask About Timeline & Communication
Ask how long the project will take, when it can start, and what could realistically delay it. Just as important, ask who your point of contact will be day to day and how they will keep you updated. Renovations disrupt your home, so knowing the expected timeline and how progress and problems will be communicated saves a great deal of stress. A clear answer here is a good sign the company runs organised projects.
Red Flags to Watch For
Some warning signs are worth acting on. Be cautious of a renovator who:
- Wants a large deposit up front
- Only takes cash
- Won’t put things in writing
- Is vague about licensing or insurance
- Quotes far below everyone else
- Pressures you to sign quickly
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A quote that seems too good to be true usually is. Trust the process of asking questions – a reputable renovator welcomes them, and one who bristles at them is telling you something.
Asking these questions up front is the best protection you have for a project of this size
At GIA, we are more than happy to answer every one of them – it’s how good renovations start. Learn more about our team, explore our recent projects, or get in touch to talk through your kitchen, bathroom or laundry project.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many quotes should I get for a renovation?
Getting more than one quote helps you compare scope, inclusions and price fairly, provided each quote spells out the same detail. Focus on what’s included rather than the headline number alone.
Is it normal to pay a deposit before work starts?
A reasonable deposit is standard practice, but be wary of a renovator asking for a large portion of the total up front. Payment is usually tied to progress stages set out in the contract, which protects both sides. As a general rule of thumb, all renovation jobs will require a 5% deposit.
