How can I obtain a quote?

To start the process of obtaining a quote from us we ask that you fill in your information on the contact us page. Once your contact information has been entered it will take you through to our questionnaire. Here, we ask you for a basic outline of your enquiry to see if we are able to assist you. This will ask you about the number and type of rooms you are looking to add to your home, the basic type of materials you would like to use such as roofing and flooring. We will also ask whether you have plans, what your budget is and your timeframes for the build. – If you already have plans and/or DA/CC/CDC approval, please attach them to the questionnaire along with any additional surveys, engineering plans, reports that you may have. Once we have received your details, the builder will review the information and we will contact you for further details or to schedule an appointment for him to meet with you ahead of providing you with a detailed quote.

I don’t know what my budget is, why do I have to provide one?

Don’t overthink this! We don’t expect you to know how much the build will cost. However, as the home owner you will have an idea of how much you have/can borrow to complete the works. We need to know this so that we can advise you if this amount is realistic. We don’t want to waste your time and we will be honest and upfront with you right from the start.

I have plans, can you build based on these plans?

Through our extensive experience building additions and extensions, we have found that when we are presented with plans provided by an external provider, these often do not take into consideration the real cost of building. To address this challenge we make sure that we look after the entire process from start to finish. We will work with you to create plans that will align with your quote. If you have had plans prepared in advance, we ask you to set these aside and work with us and our draftsperson to ensure that we can tailor your addition utilising the most cost-effective design that takes into consideration all the intricacies and requirements of building an addition or extension. Through our extensive experience in building additions and extensions, we know what can work, what is achievable in line with build cost expectations and what to avoid when designing an addition or extension. This experience ensures that we know what is the best way to utilise the funds you have available to achieve the best outcome for you and your family.

Common Renovation Mistakes in Australia – and How to Avoid Them

Renovating your home is one of the biggest investments many Australians will ever make. Whether you’re adding a second storey to create more space for your growing family or transforming your existing layout, a well-planned renovation can significantly increase both comfort and property value.

At 32 Degrees Building, we specialise in second-storey additions, ground-floor extensions, and large-scale renovations across Sydney and surrounding areas. Over the years, we’ve seen where many homeowners go wrong — and how the right planning and builder can make all the difference.

Here are some of the most common renovation mistakes to avoid — plus expert tips from our team to help you plan your project with confidence.

1. Underestimating Your Renovation Budget

One of the biggest traps homeowners fall into is underestimating the true cost of their renovation. Council fees, engineering requirements, and unexpected site conditions like asbestos or poor soil can quickly blow out a budget.

💡32 Degrees Tip: Always allow a 10–15% contingency in your budget for unforeseen costs. Our team provides transparent, detailed costings during the design and planning stages to help clients avoid financial surprises once construction begins.

2. Ignoring Council Approvals and Building Regulations

Every renovation in Australia is subject to council approvals and building codes, especially larger projects like second-storey additions. Skipping these steps might seem like a time-saver initially, but it can lead to major fines or even forced rectification work.

💡32 Degrees Tip: Work with a licensed builder experienced in navigating council requirements. At 32 Degrees Building, we manage the entire approval process for you — from planning applications to final certification — ensuring everything complies with Australian building standards.

3. DIY Overload

While DIY can be rewarding, taking on structural or technical work yourself can cause serious safety risks or legal issues. Electrical, plumbing, and structural work must be completed by licensed trades.

💡32 Degrees Tip: Focus your energy on the finishing touches — like painting or landscaping — and leave the complex tasks to qualified professionals. Our integrated team of builders, engineers, and trades ensures every stage of your project meets safety and compliance requirements.

4. Choosing Materials Unsuitable for the Australian Climate

Our diverse climate means building materials must be chosen carefully. Using materials that can’t withstand Australia’s heat, humidity, or coastal conditions often results in warping, cracking, or costly long-term maintenance.

💡32 Degrees Tip: We source high-quality, climate-appropriate materials that are suited to your local environment — whether that’s bushfire-rated cladding, insulation for energy efficiency, or moisture-resistant finishes for coastal homes.

5. Poor Floor Plan and Layout Decisions

Many renovations fail because the layout doesn’t suit the way people live. For example, adding a second storey without considering how the staircase integrates with the ground floor can lead to awkward flow or wasted space.

💡32 Degrees Tip: Our design team works closely with clients to ensure their floor plan feels natural, functional, and family-friendly. We focus on layout, light, and lifestyle — not just looks — to ensure your new space adds genuine value to your home.

6. Choosing the Cheapest Builder

Choosing a builder based solely on price is one of the most costly mistakes you can make. The cheapest quote often means corners are cut, timelines blow out, and workmanship suffers.

💡32 Degrees Tip: Choose a builder with proven experience, clear communication, and strong reviews. 32 Degrees Building delivers fixed pricing, quality craftsmanship, and transparent timelines — so you know exactly what to expect.

7. Overcapitalising on Renovations

It’s tempting to add every luxury feature possible, but spending more than your property’s market value can backfire when it’s time to sell.

💡32 Degrees Tip: We help our clients strike the right balance between lifestyle upgrades and market value. Whether you’re building for growth or return on investment, our design consultants can guide you toward smart, value-adding choices.

Final Thoughts

A successful renovation starts with planning — not demolition. By setting a realistic budget, choosing the right materials, and working with experienced professionals, you can avoid the common renovation mistakes that derail many projects.

At 32 Degrees Building, we specialise in helping homeowners expand and modernise their homes through well-designed, high-quality second-storey additions and large-scale renovations. With expert planning and seamless project management, we make the process stress-free from concept to completion.

Ready to start planning your renovation the right way?
👉 Contact 32 Degrees Building today to discuss your home addition or renovation project.

Blog Post