The complete breakdown of costs beyond the initial quote
Every day we meet homeowners shocked by renovation costs that weren’t in their original quote. While some companies deliberately hide these costs to win jobs, at RenoWarriors we believe in upfront transparency. Here’s what really goes into a quality renovation in Melbourne’s South East.
Melbourne’s South East councils have varying permit requirements and costs. These are mandatory for most renovation work and cannot be avoided.
Melbourne SE Council Permit Costs (2025)
Building permit application
$900-$1,200
Planning permit (if required)
$530-$1,500
Plumbing Permit
$200-$400
Electrical Permit
$900-$1,200
State Government Levy
$1.28 per $1,000
building surveyor fees
$500-$1,200
Inspection Fees
Pre-construction inspection
$200-$300
Waterproofing inspection
$150-$250
Frame Inspection
$200-$350
final inspection
$250-$400
Melbourne’s South East councils have varying permit requirements and costs. These are mandatory for most renovation work and cannot be avoided.
Melbourne SE Council Permit Costs (2025)
Building permit application
$45-$55
Planning permit (if required)
$530-$1,500
Plumbing Permit
$200-$400
Electrical Permit
$900-$1,200
State government levy
$1.28 per $1,000
building surveyor fees
$500-$1,200
What Gets Removed
A complete renovation typically involves removing:
These “little things” add up quickly but are essential for a functioning renovation.
Hardware Costs That Add Up
Handles and pulls
$15-$80
Door Hinges
$25-$60
Drawer Slides
$30-$120
Taps and Mixers
$150-$800
Outlet covers and switches
$8-$25
Light Switches
$15-$45
Power Points
$25-$60
Bathroom Specific Hardware
Older homes in Melbourne’s South East often need infrastructure improvements to meet current standards.
Electrical Upgrades
New circuit installation
$300-$600
Switchboard Upgrade
$530-$1,500
RCD Protection
$200-$400
Additional power points
$150-$300
Exhaust fan installation
$250-$500
Plumbing Infrastructure
New water supply lines
$800-$1,500
Waste pipe replacement
$600-$1,200
Water pressure booster
$800-$1,500
Hot water system upgrade
$1,200-$3,500
Common Infrastructure Surprises
Older homes may have: asbestos materials requiring specialist removal, outdated electrical not meeting current safety codes, galvanized pipes needing replacement, or inadequate structural support requiring engineering.
Coordinating multiple trades and ensuring quality work requires professional management.
Professional Services
Building designer/architect
$2,00-$5,000
Engineering reports
$800-$2,000
Project management
10%-15%
Interior Design Consultation
$1,000-$3,000
Even with careful planning, renovations uncover unexpected problems.
Common Unforeseen Costs
RenoWarriors Recommendation
Always budget an additional 15-20% for contingencies. This isn’t pessimism – it’s realistic planning that prevents project delays and stress when issues arise.
For a typical Melbourne SE bathroom renovation in 2025:
Complete Cost Breakdown
Construction work
60-70% ($18,000-$28,000)
Materials and Fixtures
20-25% ($6,000-$10,000)
Permits and fees
3-5% ($1,000-$2,000)
Removal and Disposal
5-8% ($1,500-$3,200)
Hardware and small items
3-5% ($1,000-$2,000)
Contingency
15-20% ($4,500-$8,000)
Total realistic budget
$32,000-$53,200
How RenoWarriors Handles Transparency
We provide detailed quotes that include all foreseeable costs. Our project managers explain each line item so you understand exactly what you’re paying for and why it’s necessary.
Get a Transparent, Detailed Quote
No hidden surprises. No budget blowouts. Just honest, upfront pricing for your renovation.
