Planning a renovation or extension is an exciting step, but it also comes with important decisions. Understanding what to consider early, before we start on site, helps create a smoother, more successful project.

At Tallow Building, we guide you from the first conversation through to final handover, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Before We Start

Your Goals

Start with how you want your home to function.
Do you need more space, better flow, additional bedrooms or open-plan living?
Clear priorities help shape the design, scope and budget.

Your Budget & Expectations

A realistic budget is essential from the beginning. Renovations often involve structural work, services, finishes and compliance requirements.

It’s also important to allow a contingency for unknowns that can appear when opening up an existing home.

Inspiration images are helpful, but every home, block and budget is different. We work with you to achieve a practical, well planned result that balances vision with reality.

Living Arrangements During Construction

Before work begins, consider whether you will:

• Live in the home during the renovation

• Rent temporarily

• Stay with family or elsewhere

Living on site can work for smaller staged projects, but it does involve noise, dust, reduced access to kitchens or bathrooms and regular cleaning to keep spaces usable.

At certain stages, services such as power, water or sewer may need to be temporarily disconnected for safety and compliance. For larger projects, moving out can reduce stress and allow construction to progress more efficiently.

We discuss this with you early so you can plan ahead.

Feasibility of Your Home

Every home is different. Structure, access, site conditions and council requirements all influence what’s possible. Early planning identifies constraints and opportunities before construction begins.

Timeframes

Quality renovations take time. Planning, approvals, selections and construction are all part of the journey. Setting realistic timelines from the start reduces stress and supports better decision-making.

Planning & Pre-Construction

Thorough planning is the key to a successful build. This stage may include:

• Site assessments

• Concept design and layout planning

• Engineering and structural review

• Approvals and certification

• Detailed scope of works and costing

Investing time here leads to fewer surprises and a more efficient build.

We also partner with a network of trusted local suppliers and trades, giving you access to quality products and value. These relationships help streamline selections and ensure consistent workmanship and reliable lead times.

During Construction

Once construction begins, you can expect:

• Regular communication and progress updates

• Coordinated trades and organised site management

• Staged works depending on the scope

• Temporary disruptions such as noise, dust and restricted access

If you are living in the home, there will be an element of daily cleaning and adapting to changing conditions. Our team works to keep the site safe, tidy and well managed while maintaining quality and momentum.

Selections & Decision-Making

Selections for finishes, fixtures and materials are an important part of the process. Making decisions on time helps keep the project running smoothly and avoids delays. We provide guidance so you know what needs to be selected and when.

Budget Control & Variations

A well-defined scope helps maintain budget control. If changes are requested during construction, we clearly communicate costs and timing implications before proceeding, so you remain informed and in control.

The End Result

A renovation or extension is an investment in how you live. When properly planned and professionally managed, it delivers:

• Improved functionality

• Increased space and natural light

• Better flow between living areas

• Long-term value to your home

Our goal is to deliver a finished space that feels cohesive, considered and built to last.