What Factors Can Affect the Timeline of a Home Extension or Renovation Project?
Find out what factors can affect the timeline of a home extension or home renovation project, and what are the common considerations that need to be taken into account to save time overall.
Undertaking a large home renovation project can be challenging. One of the most difficult things to comprehend for newcomers, are the variables that can affect the project timeline, which can be as brief as 6 months or as long as 2 years. So, what factors can impact a home extension project timeline? Let’s take a look.
1. Site and location-specific issues: If your property is in an area with specific challenges—such as being prone to bushfires, falling under a stricter council, or having existing infrastructure problems—you may face delays. Additional expert advice, more complex approvals, or consultations with multiple council departments or external agencies may be required, extending the project timeline.
2. Timing of financing: In some regions, banks may require a signed contract, including insurance payments, before finalising your mortgage or construction loan. In other areas, you may need to obtain a building permit before securing finance. These processes can cause delays if they’re not completed in advance. Identifying opportunities to carry out tasks simultaneously can help to minimise pauses in the project.
3. Approval delays: Delays aren’t limited to financing. Other stages, such as waiting for development applications, can cause pauses. While you might be able to work on other tasks during this time, it’s important to take expert advice and carefully plan which stages can proceed.
4. Local regulations: Regulations can vary depending on your location. In some areas, you may need to appoint a builder before submitting for building approval, while in others, specific professionals must sign off before construction can proceed. In some cases, the owner is responsible for submitting paperwork and payments. Understanding these local requirements before starting can save time and frustration.
5. Scope of design changes: The extent of your home extension or renovation will also affect the timeline. Projects that involve structural changes—like altering the footings of your home or adding a second storey—will require additional groundwork. Even smaller changes, such as removing walls to create open-plan spaces, often involve structural considerations that can take time to address.
6. Number of contractors involved: Managing multiple contractors can also influence the timeline. While you might engage an architect, engineer, builder, and plumber separately, coordinating their schedules can be challenging. Working with a builder who can manage the entire project—from design to build and interior work—can simplify this process and avoid unnecessary delays.
Understanding the key stages of your project early on is critical, and factoring in potential delays will help set realistic expectations about what’s achievable within your timeframe.
Looking for a Trusted Home Extension Builder on the Central Coast?
Acrow Granny Flats and Home Extensions is your local expert home extension builder on the Central Coast, offering tailored solutions for families who need more space without the hassle of moving. Whether you’re adding a extra bedrooms, expanding your living areas, or even creating a second storey, we handle every step—from design through to council approvals and construction. Start with out free downloadable brochure with example floor plans to help you explore your options. Contact us today to discuss your major home extension and see how we can transform your space into something truly remarkable.