What do you need before asking a builder for a renovation quote?
You hate the layout, you don’t like being in the space, you’ve saved the inspiration images and decided it’s time to renovate. Now you want to know what it will cost.
Before asking builders for a detailed quote, it helps to have a few things sorted. The clearer the information you give them, the less they have to guess.
1. Know what you want to improve
Start with what frustrates you about the existing space:
Not enough bench space or useful storage?
A cramped layout?
Poor lighting?
A kitchen that feels disconnected from the rest of the home?
You don’t need all the answers yet. Knowing what isn’t working helps us design a space that makes everyday life easier. A quality interior designer will be able to assist with filling in the gaps and can resolve issues before they arise in the construction stage.
2. Be open about your budget
Your budget helps guide the layout, materials and scope of work. Think about allowances for:
Design and documentation.
Building work.
Appliances, fixtures and finishes.
Unexpected work, particularly in older homes.
An early conversation with your interior designer can help you understand what might be achievable. A builder will need more information before they are able to provide you with a detailed quote.
3. Work through the layout
Moving a sink or removing a wall can affect several trades. Before requesting detailed pricing, aim to confirm:
What’s staying and what’s being replaced.
The proposed layout.
Appliance and plumbing locations.
Any changes to walls, windows or doorways.
It’s much easier to change a drawing with your interior designer, than a kitchen that’s already being installed.
4. Choose the key fixtures and finishes
“New cabinetry and a stone benchtop” leaves plenty open to interpretation. Major selections might include:
Cabinetry finishes and storage fittings.
Benchtops, flooring and splash backs.
Appliances.
Tapware and bathroom fixtures.
Lighting.
Getting a great design from your interior designer ensures that key fixtures and finishes are already selected, so the builder is able to provide an accurate quote.
5. Give each builder the same information
For a detailed quote, your builder may need the following, which a quality interior designer will be able to provide for you:
Floor plans and elevations.
Detailed joinery drawings.
A fixtures and finishes schedule.
A clear scope of work.
If you’re comparing quotes, giving each builder the same documents enables you to compare quotes accurately.
Where does Inka Interiors fit in?
This is a big part of what we do: help you work through the layout, selections and practical details, then bring everything together in drawings and schedules your builder can use.
You can speak with a builder early in the process. Having the design documented before detailed quoting gives everyone a clearer starting point.
Planning a kitchen, bathroom or whole home renovation? Get in touch with Inka Interiors to talk through your ideas and the next steps.