Planning a home renovation in London? Whether you’re upgrading a kitchen, remodelling your bathroom, or extending your property, there’s a lot that can go wrong without the right preparation — and the right team.
At Right Build Group, we’ve seen (and fixed) it all. Here are the 7 most common renovation mistakes homeowners make, and how to avoid them for a stress-free, successful build.
1. Underestimating the Budget
The mistake: Many homeowners start with a rough figure in mind but don’t account for hidden costs — structural issues, waste removal, planning fees, or material upgrades.
The fix: Always include a contingency fund of 10–20%. Better still, work with professionals like Right Build Group who offer transparent, itemised quotes from the outset. This gives you clarity and helps avoid nasty surprises.
2. Skipping the Design Phase
The mistake: Jumping straight into building without proper drawings or space planning can lead to inefficient layouts, missed opportunities, or costly rework.
The fix: Start with a detailed design brief and, if necessary, hire a designer or architect. At Right Build Group, we offer full design and build services, ensuring everything is well planned and feasible before work begins.
3. Not Checking Planning Regulations
The mistake: Homeowners assume small extensions or loft conversions don’t require approval — but each London borough has its own rules, especially for listed buildings or conservation zones.
The fix: Always check with your local authority or consult a builder who understands local planning laws. Right Build Group handles all planning permissions and building control checks, giving you peace of mind.
4. Choosing the Cheapest Contractor
The mistake: It’s tempting to go for the lowest quote — but poor workmanship, delays, and communication issues can end up costing you far more.
The fix: Look for a builder with verified experience, genuine reviews, and proper accreditations. Right Build Group is a trusted name in London, with decades of experience and a proven reputation for quality.
5. Poor Scheduling and Project Management
The mistake: DIY project management can lead to overlapping trades, idle time, or delivery delays that slow everything down and increase costs.
The fix: Hire a contractor who offers end-to-end project management. Right Build Group manages every trade, timeline, and supplier for you — so your renovation runs smoothly from start to finish.
6. Neglecting Structural Considerations
The mistake: Knocking down walls or moving plumbing without understanding the structure of the property can be dangerous — and expensive to fix.
The fix: Always get a structural engineer’s assessment before making major changes. Our team at Right Build Group works with engineers to ensure every renovation is structurally sound and fully compliant.
7. Overlooking Future-Proofing
The mistake: Renovating based on current needs without considering how you’ll use the space in 5 or 10 years — for example, not including smart features or enough storage.
The fix: Invest in energy-efficient upgrades, high-quality materials, and smart home systems. We help clients think long-term by recommending materials and layouts that age well, reduce running costs, and increase property value.
BONUS: Not Getting Everything in Writing
The mistake: Relying on verbal agreements or vague email threads can lead to confusion and disputes.
The fix: Make sure you have a detailed contract that covers:
- Scope of work
- Payment schedule
- Timeline
- Warranty terms
- Dispute resolution
Right Build Group provides a comprehensive written agreement before any project begins, so you always know where you stand.
Final Thoughts
A home renovation can be exciting — but it’s also a major investment. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your budget, timeline, and peace of mind. And remember, the best way to avoid them all? Hire the right team.
If you’re planning a renovation in London, Right Build Group offers:
- Full property refurbishments
- Kitchen and bathroom remodelling
- Loft conversions and extensions
- Planning and design services
- Project management from start to finish
Get in touch today for a free consultation and a no-obligation quote.