Top 10 Renovation Tips from a Local Builder

Real advice from someone who’s been there, built that

Renovating is exciting — new space, fresh look, big plans.

But it’s also full of unknowns. As a builder with 20+ years on the tools across Wellington and the Kapiti Coast, I’ve seen it all — the good, the bad, and the “mate, what were you thinking?”

Here are 10 tips I wish every homeowner knew before we started. These will save you money, stress, and time — and maybe even help you enjoy the process a little more.

1. Involve Your Builder Before Submitting Plans

This is a big one. People often come to me with council-approved plans, ready to go. But by that point, it’s usually too late to make changes — even if there are better, easier, or cheaper ways to do the job.

A small layout tweak early on might save you thousands in steel, simplify the structure, or avoid complex foundations.

Bring your builder into the conversation before the plans go in. It won’t cost you anything — and we might spot ways to simplify the build, reduce costs, or make things flow better.

2. Set a Realistic Budget — and Include a Buffer

It’s easy to forget all the extras when you’re budgeting — council fees, design costs, kitchen fit-out, tapware, unexpected repairs… it adds up.

Build in a 10–20% buffer for the unknowns. Not because we expect problems — but because sometimes they happen. If you don’t use it, great. If you do, you’re ready.

It’s a lot easier to enjoy the process when you’re not trying to pick your tiles with $400 left in the kitty and a couple invoices still on the way.

3. Let Your Builder Manage the Project

You might be tempted to organise your own trades or “help out” to save money. But unless you’re in the industry, managing a job site quickly turns into a juggling act — and that can delay the whole project.

Managing a build is a full-time job — and it’s what I do every day. I’ve got the team, the contacts, and the plan to keep things moving.

Letting your builder coordinate trades ensures things happen in the right order, at the right time, with the right people.

4. Make Decisions Early — and Stick to Them

We all change our minds — that’s human. But the further into the build you are, the more complicated (and expensive) changes become.

Late tile choices, shifting a window, swapping out tapware… even small changes can have a domino effect. Materials need reordering, council sign-off might change, tradies need rescheduling.

The earlier you make key decisions, the smoother the job will go — and the happier you’ll be with the finish.

5. Know What You’re Supplying — and Have It Ready

Builders usually supply the materials that make up the structure — frames, gib, nails, cladding. But most fit-out items (like vanities, taps, tiles, lighting) are often client-supplied.

That means you need to have those things ready when we need them — or the job pauses.

I can’t install the shower if there’s no mixer, and we don’t want to spend half a day ringing tile shops trying to find stock.

We’ll always help guide you — just be ready to keep pace with the build timeline.

6. Be Cautious of the Cheapest Quote

Price matters, but be careful. The cheapest quote on paper isn’t always the cheapest job in the end — especially if corners are cut or things go wrong.

I’ve seen clients go with the lowest bid, only to call me back six months later to fix leaky work, redo substandard finishing, or chase someone who’s stopped answering their phone.

Pick someone who communicates clearly, shows up on time, and has a good track record. Trust is worth more than a 5% saving.

7. Be Realistic About Timelines

TV shows have trained people to think a full renovation can happen in two weeks with a time-lapse camera and dramatic music. But real building takes time — and it should.

Even a basic bathroom reno can take 3–4 weeks with trades, inspections, drying times, and deliveries.

We’re building something that should last 30+ years — it’s worth taking the time to get it right.

8. Be Ready for a Bit of Chaos

Renovating is messy. There’s noise, dust, decisions, and disruption. Kids, pets, and muddy boots don’t always mix.

If possible:

• Set up a temporary kitchen or bathroom

• Create a tidy space where you can retreat

• Move valuables or fragile items

• Let the neighbours know what’s happening

Better yet — go stay somewhere during the worst of it. Even a few nights away can make a big difference.

9. Plan for Site Access Early

Tight driveways, sloping sections, shared access — these can all affect the job. We need space for trucks, skips, scaffolding, and materials.

Let your builder know upfront so we can plan accordingly and avoid surprises.

We can absolutely build on tricky sites — but it helps to be prepared.

10. Ask Questions — Seriously, We Want You To

A good builder isn’t just there to swing a hammer — we’re there to guide the process. If you don’t understand something, ask. If you're unsure about a quote or a stage of the build — ask.

We’d rather explain something twice than have you feel confused or left out.

You’re investing real money into your home — it’s important that you feel confident every step of the way.

🧱 Final Thoughts

Renovating your home is a big deal — financially, emotionally, and logistically. It can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do, or one of the most stressful… and often, it’s both at the same time.

That’s why I wrote this — not to scare you, but to help you plan well, avoid the common traps, and feel confident about working with a builder who’s on your side.

If you're thinking about a project — even if it's early days — flick me a message. I'm happy to chat, give honest feedback, or look over your plans before they go to council.

📍 Jbuild Construction – Renovation & Extension Specialists

✅ Serving Kapiti Coast & Wellington🛠️ Honest advice, clean jobs, great builds🔗

www.jbuildconstruction.nz