Common Renovation Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Get It Right)

Renovation Mistakes

Renovating your home can be exciting — but it’s also a major project that can quickly spiral into stress and overspending if you don’t plan carefully. Whether you're updating a single room or overhauling your entire property, here are 8 common renovation mistakes to avoid — and how to do it right.

1. Not Setting a Realistic Budget

One of the biggest traps renovators fall into is underestimating the cost. Always factor in 10–20% extra for unexpected issues — because trust us, they will happen. Plumbing surprises, delivery delays, and last-minute design changes can all add up quickly.

✅ Tip: Get multiple quotes and create a spreadsheet to track every expense.

2. Overcapitalising

Spending £100k on a property that’s already close to your area’s ceiling price won’t guarantee you’ll get that money back. Know your local property values before investing in major works.

✅ Tip: Research recent sales in your area. If similar homes cap at £650k and yours is worth £600k, a £100k renovation might not make financial sense.

3. Skipping Renovation Insurance

Many homeowners wrongly assume their standard home insurance covers building works — but it usually doesn’t.

✅ Tip: Always take out renovation insurance to protect against accidental damage, structural issues, and site-related risks during the project.

4. Ignoring Planning Permission

You might need planning permission or building regulation approval, especially for extensions, loft conversions, or structural changes.

✅ Tip: Always check with your local authority before starting work — and don’t rely solely on your contractor’s word.

5. Choosing the Cheapest Quote

It’s tempting to go with the lowest price, but it can cost more in the long run if the quality is poor or timelines slip.

✅ Tip: Review portfolios, ask for references, and ensure your contractor is fully insured and experienced in your type of project.

 6. Changing Plans Midway

Switching up designs or materials after work has started often leads to delays and added costs.

✅ Tip: Finalise your plans and finishes before work begins. Think long-term and avoid chasing trends that might date quickly.

7. Poor Time Planning

Renovations almost always take longer than expected. Poor scheduling can leave you without a kitchen or bathroom for weeks.

✅ Tip: Create a timeline with your contractor and include buffer time for delays. If you need to move out temporarily, plan ahead.

 8. Neglecting the Little Details

Overlooking things like lighting placement, plug socket locations, or door swings can impact your daily use of the space.

✅ Tip: Walk through your plans room by room and visualise how you’ll live in the space — the small details matter more than you think.

Renovating can add value, improve comfort, and make your space feel like home — but only if you approach it with the right strategy. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll save money, reduce stress, and get a result you’ll be proud of.

Renovation Insurance