Costs to consider when budgeting for your new kitchen
One of the biggest misconceptions around kitchen renovations is that the cabinetry is the entire cost. In reality, the cabinetry is only one part of the overall project. Behind every beautiful kitchen is a long list of supporting trade works, services and construction requirements that may not have made your budget list.
The good news is that most hidden costs are avoidable when they are identified early during the design and planning stage.
Trade work costs to consider
One of the most common budgeting mistakes is underestimating the cost of trades required to support the new kitchen installation.
Many older homes were never designed for modern kitchens with large appliances, induction cooking, integrated lighting and extensive storage systems. Once demolition begins, it is common to uncover outdated wiring, plumbing limitations or structural issues that need to be addressed.
Trade works can include:
- Electrical upgrades
- New plumbing rough-ins
- Plastering and repairs
- Floor preparation
- Tiling and splashbacks
- Carpentry
- Painting
- Structural modifications
In many renovations, these supporting works represent a significant portion of the overall project cost.
Electrical Costs
Modern kitchens require far more power and planning than older kitchens did.
- Additional power points for appliances
- Dedicated circuits for ovens or induction cooktops
- Pendant lighting and LED feature lighting
- Switchboard upgrades
- Under-cabinet lighting
- Relocation of existing wiring
Once walls are opened, electricians may also identify wiring that no longer complies with current standards. This is particularly common in older homes.
Plumbing Costs
Many homeowners assume plumbing costs remain low if the sink stays in the same position. While retaining the existing layout can help reduce costs, there are still several factors that may impact the plumbing budget.
- Replacing ageing pipework
- Moving waste points
- Installing water connections for fridges
- Upgrading shut off valves
- Correcting poor previous workmanship
Once the old cabinetry is removed, plumbers sometimes uncover water damage or deteriorated plumbing that needs immediate attention before new cabinetry can be installed.
Flooring and Subfloor Repairs
Some renovations require new flooring throughout the kitchen and adjoining living spaces to achieve a consistent finish. Others reveal uneven or damaged subfloors after demolition.
Depending on the age of the home, flooring costs may include:
- Levelling uneven floors
- Repairing damaged timber subfloors
- Removing old tiles or vinyl
- Installing hybrid, timber or tiled flooring
- Floor preparation for cabinetry installation
Even small floor height differences can impact cabinetry installation and appliance fitment.
Plastering and Painting
Kitchen renovations almost always involve some level of plastering and painting, even if the layout remains relatively similar.
Once old cabinetry, splashbacks and appliances are removed, wall damage becomes visible. There may be holes, cracking, uneven surfaces or areas requiring complete replacement.
- Wall repairs after demolition
- Ceiling patching
- Cornice replacement
- Painting walls and ceilings
- Finishing around new windows or doors
These finishing works are essential for making the renovation feel complete and cohesive.
Splashbacks
Splashbacks are often treated as a minor finishing item during budgeting, but they can vary significantly in price depending on material selection and installation complexity.
Popular splashback options include:
- Tiled splashbacks
- Glass splashbacks
- Stone splashbacks
- Window splashbacks
Large format porcelain or full height stone splashbacks can create a stunning finish, but they require specialist fabrication and installation.
Lighting and power point locations can also influence splashback complexity and cost.
Structural Changes
Open plan living remains one of the biggest drivers behind kitchen renovations. Many homeowners want to remove walls, widen openings or improve flow between the kitchen and living spaces.
Structural changes can dramatically improve functionality, but they often involve costs that are difficult to predict until investigations begin.
- Load bearing wall removal
- Installation of support beams
- Engineering requirements
- Additional carpentry works
- Permit approvals
This is where working with a renovation company that includes a registered builder becomes extremely valuable. Structural planning needs to happen early, not midway through demolition.
Permit and Compliance Considerations
Permit requirements are not always needed for a kitchen renovation, but if they are it will add to your budget.
Depending on the project scope, considerations may include:
- Building permits
- Engineering documentation
- NCC compliance requirements
Useful external resources:
Victorian Building Authority (VBA)
National Construction Code (NCC)
Housing Industry Association (HIA)
Why Planning Properly Matters
At Advanced Cabinetry, our renovation planning process looks beyond cabinetry selections alone. We consider layout, structural requirements, trade coordination, services and overall project flow from the beginning, helping homeowners avoid unexpected surprises later.
Our team includes experienced designers and a registered builder, allowing us to provide realistic guidance around renovation budgets and construction requirements.
If you are starting to explore ideas for your renovation, our free Kitchen Planner is a great place to begin.
Download the Free Kitchen Planner
You can also visit our Ballarat showroom and design studio to discuss your renovation ideas with our design team.
