Renovating in Brisbane & the Gold Coast
Frequently asked questions
Detailed answers to the questions we hear most often from homeowners planning a renovation. If your question isn't answered here, call us or submit an enquiry online.
Timelines & costs
Planning your investment
Timeline depends heavily on scope. These are from construction commencement and exclude design, engineering and council approval periods (which can add 2–6 months for projects requiring a Development Application):
| Project type | Indicative duration |
|---|---|
| Bathroom renovation | 3–6 weeks |
| Kitchen renovation | 4–7 weeks |
| Single-room additions / extensions | 12–20 weeks |
| Full home renovation | 16–30 weeks |
| Second storey addition | 20–30 weeks |
| Knockdown rebuild | 18–30 months |
Costs vary enormously by scope. Very broadly:
| Project type | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| Bathroom renovation | $15,000–$60,000+ |
| Kitchen renovation | $25,000–$80,000+ |
| Ground floor extension | $150,000–$400,000+ |
| Second storey addition | $250,000–$600,000+ |
| Full home renovation | $100,000–$600,000+ |
| Knockdown rebuild (build only) | $600,000–$1.5M+ |
We provide detailed, itemised fixed-price proposals for every project.
A fixed-price contract specifies the complete scope of works, inclusions, exclusions and the total price you will pay. Unlike time-and-materials or cost-plus arrangements, it means you know exactly what you are paying before a single tool is lifted. We use fixed-price contracts for all projects; any client-requested variations are documented in writing and priced before work proceeds — no surprise invoices.
Permits & process
Approvals, living on site & warranties
Not all renovations require Development Approval (DA). Broadly:
- Cosmetic renovations (painting, fixtures, flooring, kitchen/bathroom refits without structural change) generally do not require DA.
- Structural alterations (removing walls, extending footprint, adding levels) generally require building approval and may require DA.
- Properties under character or heritage overlays require DA for most works beyond minor repairs.
- Secondary dwellings (granny flats) generally require DA.
We assess the pathway required for your project at consultation and manage all approvals on your behalf.
Many clients successfully live in their homes during renovation, particularly for single-room or staged works. We plan our construction sequence to maintain a functioning bathroom and basic kitchen where possible. For full home renovations, second storey additions or extensive structural works, temporary accommodation is often preferable — we advise on staging strategies at consultation.
All residential building work in Queensland is covered by statutory warranties under the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991, including a 6-year and 6-month warranty for structural defects and a 1-year warranty for other defects. Over and above statutory minimums, we provide additional written warranties on waterproofing, cabinetry and key installations. All eligible projects are covered by QBCC Home Warranty insurance.
QBCC Home Warranty insurance is compulsory insurance that protects Queensland homeowners undertaking residential building work over $3,300. It provides cover if the builder becomes insolvent, dies or disappears before completing the work, or fails to rectify defective or incomplete work within the warranty periods. Innovare Renovations holds a current QBCC Licence 15514239 and this insurance for eligible projects.
Technical & working with us
Choosing a builder, tax & asbestos
- Verify QBCC licence — check the builder's licence status on the QBCC website.
- Check specific experience — ensure they've completed projects similar in type and scale to yours.
- Request references — speak with previous clients.
- Understand the contract — ensure you receive a fixed-price contract with a detailed scope.
- Review warranties — understand statutory and contractual obligations.
- Assess communication — responsiveness during tender predicts communication during construction.
Renovation costs are not subject to stamp duty. However, if your property's value increases as a result, you may face capital gains implications when you sell (subject to your primary residence status and individual tax circumstances). We recommend seeking advice from a registered tax professional.
Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) are common in Queensland homes built before 1990. If ACM is suspected, we commission a licensed asbestos assessor to inspect and test before work begins. All ACM is removed and disposed of by licensed asbestos removalists in accordance with the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Qld) before renovation works proceed. We manage this process fully on your behalf.
Still have a question?
We're happy to help
Call us or email your renovation question — we'll get back to you within one business day.