Renovating or extending your home is an exciting opportunity to create the space you’ve always wanted — but without the right planning and advice, things can quickly go off track. At Austen Dawson, we’ve seen first-hand the most common pitfalls homeowners face. Here are the biggest mistakes people make during renovations — and how to avoid them.
1. Underestimating the Budget
The Mistake: Many homeowners plan for ideal costs without factoring in hidden issues, material increases, or design changes.
The Fix: Always build a 10–15% contingency into your renovation budget. Work with a quantity surveyor early to cost up different design options and understand what’s realistic.
2. Not Getting the Right Permissions
The Mistake: Starting work without checking whether planning permission or Building Regulations approval is needed.
The Fix: Speak to your local authority or hire a company that handles this for you. Even permitted development has rules — especially for rear extensions, lofts, or conservation areas.
3. Rushing the Design Phase
The Mistake: Jumping into construction before finalising design and specification details leads to delays, cost overruns, and rework.
The Fix: Take the time to work through a clear brief, drawings, and a specification schedule with your architect or design-and-build team. Good planning saves time and money.
4. Hiring Based on Price Alone
The Mistake: Going with the cheapest builder without checking their experience, past work, or insurance cover.
The Fix: Choose a reputable builder with relevant experience in extensions or renovations — ideally one who can show you previous projects and offer detailed estimates.
5. Trying to Project Manage Alone
The Mistake: Taking on the management of trades, schedules, deliveries, and inspections without experience often leads to chaos.
The Fix: Hire a professional project manager or work with a design-and-build firm who handles everything from planning through to handover.
6. Not Considering How You’ll Live During the Works
The Mistake: Staying in the house during messy and noisy works can be incredibly disruptive.
The Fix: If your renovation or extension is major, plan for temporary accommodation or create a clear living zone with your builder that minimises disruption.
7. Ignoring Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Value
The Mistake: Focusing only on short-term aesthetics without considering insulation, lighting, or heating systems.
The Fix: Use the renovation or extension as an opportunity to upgrade your home’s energy performance — which saves money and adds resale value.
Final Thoughts
Renovating or extending your home doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right team, planning, and advice, it can be one of the best investments you ever make. If you’re planning a home extension or renovation, get in touch with the team at Austen Dawson— we’re here to make it straightforward, high-quality, and hassle-free.
