Renovation/ Protection

Renovation is different from new building.If you are planning a building project, you need to think through the differences between a new building and a renovation or extension.

Both however, takes a tactical planing.

A renovation though might require more compromise; ensure to get an amendment for changes to your consented plans.

*Seeking satisfaction at renovation sign-off*

In any building project there are unknown factors, particularly if the project is large or complex. In a new building, many of these can be resolved before construction begins, during the scope and design stage.

However In a renovation or alteration, your existing building’s construction may not be understood until part way through the building process. You will also need to make compromises to work with what already exists.

If you’re doing the work yourself, plan well so that you are prepared for changes and delays. They can lengthen the process and add costs. If you’re using professionals, check that they are familiar with the challenges of renovating.

Renovation is complicated to plan around. In a renovation or alteration you are working with an existing building; You should consider some specific factors, such as:

not having the original plans.

not having plans that reflect what was actually built or any other renovations.

not being able to understand parts of the existing structure until your building starts (for example, inside walls).

want or need to keep existing features

need to retrofit items (for example, insulation or windows).



Emergency exits from fire outbreak or it’s kinds.


A renovation might require more compromise unlike a new building. when you renovate or extend a building you may have to compromise your design to work around what already exists;matching existing materials, finishes and tolerances (how much the work varies from stated measurement) may be difficult or even impossible in renovations or extensions.

It is important to be conscious of common issues that may arise when matching old and new materials. For example, older existing building materials will likely be machined or manufactured in imperial sizing where new materials often have a smaller finished size as they are manufactured to metric dimensions. This is typically an issue with materials such as weatherboards, skirting and scotia.

This can take longer and may cost more than building new.

Make sure to get an amendment for changes to your consented plans



Change of use, alterations and extension of life

Learn more about Change of use and alterations.

*Seeking satisfaction at renovation sign-off*


