Before you sign anything
Canberra kitchen renovation checklist
Work through this before you sign a contract or pay a deposit for your Canberra job. Print it, take it to each quote, and tick off every point with the renovator.
Licences, insurance & quotes
The contract & payments
Scope, materials & timeline
During the job & handover
Red flags - walk away if you see these
Questions homeowners ask
What licence should a kitchen renovator have?
It varies by state, but the builder needs a domestic building licence for work over the threshold, and plumbing, gas and electrical must be done by separately licensed trades who issue certificates.
How big a deposit is normal?
Deposits are legally capped in most states - commonly 10% (VIC caps it at around 5% on jobs over $20,000). Never pay 50% upfront, no matter the reason given.
Do I need home warranty insurance?
For domestic work over the state threshold the builder must provide it (VIC DBI, NSW HBCF, QLD QBCC). Ask for the certificate before work starts.
How do I handle variations?
Agree any change in writing, with a price, before it's done. Verbal 'we'll sort it later' variations are the number one cause of disputes and budget blowouts.
What warranty should I expect?
Statutory workmanship warranties run several years under state law (often 6 years for major defects), plus separate manufacturer warranties on cabinets, benchtops and appliances.
Should I use a designer or go straight to a builder?
For a simple like-for-like swap, a good cabinetmaker or builder is enough. For a new layout or wall changes, a design plan first avoids expensive on-the-fly decisions.
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