Tradie tips for the best kitchen renovation results

The message is clear from our trade professionals – plan, keep informed and communicate!

We spoke to members of three peak Australian trade bodies – Master Builders Australia, Master Electricians Australia and Master Plumbers for advice on ensuring a smooth kitchen renovation.

The builder

Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief Executive of Master Builders Australia, says it is important to choose a builder or carpenter who is experienced in home renovations.

“A new home builder is less used to the very personal and passionate specifications of clients, and also the consultations that take place from beginning to end between client and builder in a renovation situation,” says Harnisch.

Harnisch recommends renovators put a lot of time and effort into selecting a builder they can communicate with effectively, including regarding details of family routines.

“This will have a huge impact on whether your renovation is a nightmare or a positive experience,” says Harnisch. “If things are understood and agreed at the commencement, this will play a large part in avoiding time and cost blow-outs.

“Make sure you ask the builder what other jobs they have on and get an assurance that your job will retain its priority in comparison with other business. This isn’t about being first priority but more about not having the builder disappear halfway through the job to attend to another client while you wait an unreasonable period.”

A number of builders now employ in-house designers and interior designers to assist clients with their kitchen design. As Harnisch explains, even if the client knows exactly what they want, the designers can be invaluable in highlighting potential issues, such as products that don’t conform to Australian standards.

“Once again, this can cause delays and add costs if not identified early. The designers can offer suggestions on what might work better, and can often help get materials cheaper or provide advice about the ongoing resilience and care of products,” Harnisch says.

Fast facts:

• Ask friends and family for referrals for builders, and check the prospective builders’ previous projects – ask to see a portfolio
• Choose a licensed, insured builder with renovation experience
• If you are relocating utilities or undertaking structural changes you are likely to require building approval from your local council
• Consider home warranty insurance if structural work is involved
• Kitchens built prior to 1984 will likely contain asbestos that will need to be removed by a qualified professional.

The plumber

Master Plumber Dave Moyle recommends asking questions first.

“Communicate with all your trades early and often,” says Moyle. “If you are thinking of changing something, ask the questions early in the renovation rather than waiting until it may be too late. Another handy tip is to supply your tradespeople with a comprehensive list of all other trades involved in the renovation, when they are scheduled and their contact details.”

Moyle also recommends consulting a plumber at the beginning of the planning process so you can understand the logistics and costs involved in your kitchen ideas and be kept up to date with the latest water regulations and standards. “Moving the sink closer to the fridge and swapping the gas stove with the dishwasher may look great; however, the work involved in moving all the services to achieve the new layout will be expensive.”

Fast facts:

• Only a licensed and registered plumber can undertake plumbing work, including disconnecting and re-connecting services
• When buying appliances, refer to the Australian water efficiency labelling (WELS) scheme and check for the WaterMark^TM logo, which confirms the product complies with Australian standards
• Your plumber will need to coordinate closely with your electrician and it is often best for the plumbing work to be carried out first.

The sparkie

Master Electrician Chris Lehmann stresses the importance of preparation.

“Have a clear idea about what you want and communicate this to the builder, plumber and sparkie in person – and do a walk-through with them,” Lehmann says. “Once this is done, agree on a firm layout with an agreed price and make sure everyone signs off on it, either in person or in an email trail.

“Last-minute changes, or changes which were discussed but not confirmed, can cause disappointment and delays and leave you not feeling as excited about your dream kitchen.”

In terms of safety, Lehmann recommends staying out of the work area as much as possible while the renovation is underway. “If possible, relocate the fridge, toaster and kettle temporarily (to the back deck or a table in the rumpus room) where lunches and breakfast cereal can be dispensed. Put Dad on BBQ duty for the duration of the reno, for dinners.

“Also, be very aware that your kitchen is a construction site and insist on good housekeeping practices so that, at the end of every day, onsite trades have left the area clean and that all tools and materials are stored safely away, and electrical cables terminated safely or isolated.”

Fast facts:

• Only a licensed electrical contractor can disconnect and connect fixed appliances
• When buying electrical appliances look out for Energy Rating labelling: the more stars, the more energy-efficient the product will be.

Refer to Domain’s Complete Kitchen Renovation Guide for step-by-step kitchen renovation advice.