Frequently Asked Questions: Renovating Bathrooms, Kitchens, and Apartments in Sydney!

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Renovating a home or apartment in Sydney comes with a lot of excitement — and just as many questions.

At Milani Concepts, we work with clients across the Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, North Shore and more — and we’ve heard every concern, from “Do I need council approval?” to “How long will I be without a bathroom?”

So, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked renovation questions and answered them below — to help you feel informed, confident, and ready to start smart.

🔹 Most Common Renovation Questions & Answers

❓ How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Sydney?

The average bathroom renovation starts from $25,000 to $35,000, depending on layout, size, access, waterproofing complexity, and finish level.

✅ Our Tip:Get a tailored cost roadmap based on your layout, not averages. Our free Design + Build Roadmap Session includes early-stage budgeting to avoid surprises.

❓ How long does a bathroom or kitchen renovation take?

• Bathrooms: Usually 2–4 weeks

• Kitchens: Typically 3–5 weeks

Apartments may take longer due to strata or lift access.

✅ Our Tip:We provide a clear timeline breakdown — including drying times, joinery lead times, and approvals.

❓ Do I need council or strata approval to renovate?

Yes, if you're changing:

• Waterproofing

• Plumbing

• Load-bearing walls

• Common property

✅ Our Tip:We handle all strata and council documentation to avoid delays or legal issues.

❓ Can I renovate just part of my home?

Absolutely. Many clients renovate in stages — bathroom first, then kitchen or laundry later.

✅ Our Tip:We design your entire home flow up front, even if you build in stages — so future works don’t clash.

❓ What’s included in your Design + Build service?

Everything from concept to completion:

• Design

• Approvals

• Selections

• Construction

• Quality control

✅ Our Tip:You speak to one accountable team. No handballing between designer and builder.

❓ Can I stay at home during the renovation?

Sometimes, yes — but not during waterproofing or bathroom demolitions.

✅ Our Tip:We schedule noisy and dusty works with minimal disruption. Some clients relocate during key phases.

❓ Do you work with clients in apartments?

Yes. This is our specialty.

✅ Our Tip:We’re fully compliant with strata regulations, noise rules, lift booking, waterproofing certs, and more.

❓ Will I need to hire other trades separately?

No. We provide a full team including:

• Carpenters

• Electricians

• Plumbers

• Tilers

• Painters

✅ Our Tip:Avoid the headache of managing trades — we coordinate everything and guarantee quality.

❓ Can I choose my own materials or finishes?

Yes. We collaborate on your preferences or offer curated packages.

✅ Our Tip:We’ll guide you on durability, availability, and style — while respecting your vision and budget.

❓ Do you help with 3D visualisations or concept drawings?

Yes — we provide concepts, plans, and even 3D renders depending on the scope.

✅ Our Tip:Seeing your design before committing avoids regret and rework.

❓ Do you offer fixed-price contracts?

Yes. After finalising the scope, selections, and design, we lock in a fixed-price contract.

✅ Our Tip:We only sign contracts when all costs and inclusions are agreed — no vague allowances or hidden surprises.

❓ What if there are unexpected issues behind the walls?

We pre-check using:

• Moisture testing

• Thermal imaging

• Builder experience

✅ Our Tip:We explain options if we uncover defects like mould or rotted timber — and fix it properly, not patch it.

❓ Do I need an architect or interior designer separately?

No. Our director is qualified in both design and construction, meaning we handle:

• Layout

• Function

• Style

• Structure

✅ Our Tip:You get architectural thinking without the separation — more cohesive, and more efficient.

❓ How do I know you’re insured or qualified?

We are fully licensed, insured, and qualified in:

• Building (Cert VI and Diploma of Building and Construction)

• ABN Registered and Licensed - Builder (NSW Builder Lic: 391529C)

• Design (Diploma and Bachelor of Architecture)

• HBCF Home Warranty Cover (where applicable)

✅ Our Tip:Always ask for credentials before hiring. Ours are visible and verified.

❓ Can you help if I’ve already started a renovation and got stuck?

Yes. We’re often called in to fix:

• DIY issues

• Builder walk-offs

• Poor planning

✅ Our Tip:Book a Site Roadmap Session and we’ll assess how to salvage and complete your project properly.

❓ Do you offer payment plans or staged payments?

Yes. We use industry-standard progress payments, linked to clear milestones.

✅ Our Tip:This ensures you only pay when work is complete — protecting both parties.

❓ Can you make my bathroom more accessible?

Absolutely. We cater to:

• Aging in place

• Mobility needs

• Walk-in showers

• Grab rails & comfort-height toilets

✅ Our Tip:Our layouts prioritise comfort, safety, and futureproofing.

❓ Will a renovation increase my home’s resale value?

If done right — yes. Especially:

• Kitchen and bathrooms

• First impressions (entry, lighting)

• Storage and layout upgrades

✅ Our Tip:We design for both lifestyle and resale, ensuring your spend adds value.

❓ How far ahead should I start planning?

Ideally 6–8 weeks before your desired start date. Good planning = smoother build.

✅ Our Tip:Use our Free Roadmap Session to see exactly what your renovation requires and when to begin.

❓ What makes Milani Concepts different?

We’re not just builders or designers — we’re both. One team, one vision, and full accountability.

✅ Our Tip:Avoid confusion, blame-shifting, and delays by choosing a company that handles Design + Build together.

✅ Summary: Renovate with Confidence, Not Guesswork

A successful renovation starts with clarity — about cost, timing, scope, and expectations.

At Milani Concepts, our FAQ isn’t just a list — it’s a promise that we’ll guide you through every stage of your renovation journey.

📍 Areas We Service in Sydney

We renovate apartments, villas, and homes across: Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, North Shore, Hills District / North West, Northern Beaches, CBD & Surrounds.

Still got questions about your own renovation?✨ Tap the link Below to see what’s possible — no pressure, just personalised answers.

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