Frequently Asked Questions
Having been in the renovation business for over 25 years, we have certainly heard some interesting commentary around renovating.
We have put together our top 5 questions asked and our answers, in hope of helping you to make informed decisions for your renovation.
Q: Do I need to use a builder for my Kitchen, Bathroom, or Laundry renovation?
A: Yes, having a qualified & experienced Registered Building Practitioner working on your renovation is an absolute must. You want to ensure that they are registered and offer Victorian domestic building contracts and domestic building insurance. You are spending a lot of money on your renovation and you want to make sure that it will be completed and warranted to Australian Standards.
To check that your builder is currently registered, refer to the Building and Plumbing Commission’s great website.
Q: How much will my Bathroom renovation cost?
A: If you have a smaller size bathroom and are looking to keep all of your services in the same place, the starting price would be around the $25,000 to $30,000 mark. This includes complete demolition, supply and installation of new fixtures & fittings, tiling and certified waterproofing, all carried out by qualified tradespeople.
If you were looking for a custom design renovation, including, for example, a custom vanity, floor to ceiling tiling, feature lighting and underfloor heating, the starting price would be around $45,000.
Word of advice with bathroom renovations – always use a certified waterproofer, and if the price seems too good to be true, it likely is. It may be a small room, but the bathroom is one of the most expensive rooms in your home to renovate.
Q: How long will it take to renovate my Kitchen?
A: From first day of demolition, to you moving back into your new kitchen and cooking your first meal, the lead-time will be approximately 4 to 8 weeks. This timeframe will depend on your selections, and will be extended by any structural works involved in the project.
The wait will definitely be worth it for a more functional space for you and your family to enjoy.
Q: Can I use my own hardware on my cabinetry?
A: No, as we are unable to offer a warranty on items you have purchased that may not be fit for purpose. As qualified cabinet makers, we include a 10 year warranty on all work we carry out, and will supply, manufacture and install everything cabinetry-related. We have done the research to find the best products to use, and we know that it will last.
Q: Do I need a planning / building permit for my renovation?
A: This is a very job-specific question, but one that gets asked often. It is something you need to be mindful of, as it can add considerable time and cost to your renovation. Each state, Victoria included, has its own standards for modifications that require a permit. The best person to speak to about this is your Registered Builder, who will be able to confirm for you if the changes you are looking to make will necessitate a permit.
Product Introduction
A favourite product of the Advanced Cabinetry team, the Illume will add light to any room in your home.
The Illume skylight alternative has a sleek design, using solar technology to transform any room into a bright space by simulating the lighting conditions outside, without the need for a light shaft.
Install an Illume, instead of a traditional skylight, to bring more light into your home. Perfect for walk-in robes, enclosed hallways, kitchens, pantries and even your bathroom.
Unlike a traditional skylight you can even install an Illume to lower levels, basements and attics — the possibilities are endless! Illume’s innovative design cuts the cost of your electricity, with no running costs or batteries.
To learn more, visit Illume’s website.
