Key Takeaways
- Not setting a contingency is the most common budgeting mistake.
- Choosing a builder on price alone leads to problems.
- Skipping permissions and building control causes issues when you sell.
- Changing your mind mid-project (scope creep) blows budgets and timelines.
- Under-investing in what is hidden, wiring, plumbing, waterproofing, costs more later.
Most renovation horror stories come down to a handful of avoidable mistakes. Learn them in advance and your project is far more likely to run smoothly, on time and on budget. Here are the ten to watch for.
1 to 3: Budget and builder
- No contingency: always set aside 10 to 15% for the surprises older London homes hold.
- Choosing on price alone: the cheapest quote often hides missing items and later extras. Choose on references and quality. See how to choose a builder.
- Vague quotes: insist on a detailed, itemised quote and a written contract.
4 to 6: Planning and process
- Skipping permissions: confirm and obtain any planning and building control approvals, or face problems when you sell.
- Ignoring the order of works: doing things out of sequence causes costly rework.
- Scope creep: changing your mind mid-project blows budgets and timelines. Decide before you start.
7 to 10: Specification and finish
- Under-investing in the hidden essentials: wiring, plumbing, waterproofing and structure are where corners cost most.
- Over-improving: spending beyond the street's value ceiling rarely pays back.
- Poor light and storage planning: easy to overlook, hard to add later. Plan lighting and storage early.
- Skipping snagging: finish with a thorough snagging list before final payment.
Avoid these and you avoid the vast majority of renovation pain. GS Renovation guides clients through every one of them. For a free consultation, contact us or call 07472 424 226.