Getting Your Ducks (and Sparkies) in a Row - The Renovation Pecking Order

Whether you're a first-time renovator trying to wrap your head around the process, or someone who just wants to keep a builder or trade honest and not be talked in circles, understanding the general order of works gives you something really valuable. Confidence. It means you can ask the right questions at the right time, spot when something feels off, and generally feel less like you're along for the wild ride on your own project.

Before I dive in, a few important caveats. Every single renovation is different, and this is the ideal order based on a very standard, run of the mill renovation. Things like structural damage, termite damage, mould, asbestos, or heritage requirements can all shift this order around. So, think of this as a general roadmap rather than gospel. Your builder may need to deviate, and that's not necessarily a red flag, it's often just the reality of working with an existing home and renovating in 2026 when trades are in high demand.