PREPARING FOR RENOVATION
How to Prepare Your Home Before a Renovation Starts
A smoother renovation starts before demolition day.
Short answer
Before renovation work starts, confirm the scope, access arrangements, key selections, temporary living plan, service interruptions and who will be the main contact during construction. Remove or protect belongings near the work area, plan for children and pets, tell the builder about security or access constraints, and make sure important decisions are not left until trades are waiting on site.
Clear the work area before the builder arrives
Remove furniture, artwork, valuables and personal items from rooms that will be renovated and from access paths used by trades.
For items that cannot be moved, discuss protection requirements with the builder before work starts.
Confirm access, parking and security
Agree how trades will enter the property, where materials can be delivered and whether gates, alarms, pets or shared driveways create special requirements.
Clear access helps reduce delays and avoids repeated questions once construction is underway.
Plan around essential rooms and services
Know when kitchens, bathrooms, power, water, heating or cooling may be unavailable. Make temporary arrangements before those stages begin.
If you are staying in the home, confirm which areas remain private and which become part of the work site.
Finalise decisions that affect early construction
- ✓Key fixtures and appliances
- ✓Cabinetry layouts
- ✓Major tile and flooring selections
- ✓Window and door choices
- ✓Electrical and lighting requirements
- ✓Plumbing fixture locations
- ✓Heating and cooling requirements
Decide how communication will work during the build
Agree who the main decision-maker is, how questions will be documented and how urgent decisions will be handled.
Keeping instructions and changes clear reduces the risk of misunderstandings and unnecessary variation disputes.
Let neighbours know about major disruption
For projects involving demolition, deliveries or regular trade traffic, a simple advance conversation with immediate neighbours can help set expectations around noise and access.
The builder remains responsible for managing the site, but good neighbour communication can make the construction period easier for everyone.
Questions homeowners ask
What should I remove before renovation starts?+
Move valuables, furniture, artwork and personal items out of the work area and clear the main access paths used by trades.
Should I move out before renovation starts?+
It depends on the scope. Smaller projects may be manageable while occupied, while larger structural or whole-home renovations can make temporary accommodation more practical.
When should I make renovation selections?+
Important selections should be made early enough for ordering and coordination before the relevant trade reaches that stage.
Should I tell my neighbours about the renovation?+
For significant work, it is usually helpful to let immediate neighbours know that construction is starting and that there may be periods of increased noise or deliveries.
Who should make decisions during the renovation?+
Nominate a clear owner contact or decision-maker so instructions do not conflict or become delayed.
Ready to discuss your project?
Tell EBC what you are planning and we will help you work through the practical next steps.
EBC services Melbourne's Eastern Suburbs. View service areas.
Related EBC pages
- Can I Live in My House During a Renovation?
- How Long Does a Home Renovation Take?
- Building Variations Explained
- Builder Site Inspection Guide
- Home Renovation Builder