Thinking about renovating your home in Sydney but unsure how much it’ll set you back? You’re definitely not alone. One of the most common questions we get at Ardent Construction is:
“What’s the actual cost of a house renovation in Sydney?”
The short answer? It varies a lot. Your budget could range from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars, depending on the type of work, the size of your property, and even which suburb you’re in.
This guide breaks down what you can expect cost-wise, what factors affect your budget, and where you might save (or blow out) along the way.
How Much Does a Renovation Cost in Sydney?
Let’s start with a few general figures to give you a feel for the market:
- Basic renovations: $20,000–$80,000
- Mid-range projects: $80,000–$150,000
- Major structural renovations: $150,000–$300,000+
Keep in mind, Sydney prices are often higher than other cities due to demand, labour costs, and property values. A bathroom reno in Parramatta is not going to cost the same as one in Mosman or the Eastern Suburbs.
If you’re after a custom estimate for your specific project, you can always get in touch with us we’re happy to chat.
What Impacts the Cost of a Renovation?
There’s no set price list for renovations and for good reason. Here are the main factors that influence the cost of renovating a home in Sydney:
1. The Scope of the Project
Are you replacing floorboards and repainting, or reworking the whole layout? More work = more money. Simple cosmetic updates will obviously cost less than reconfiguring rooms or extending your footprint.
2. Age of the Property
Older homes often come with surprises, asbestos, rotten timber, outdated plumbing or wiring, all of which can eat into your budget. If your place is a heritage home, costs can rise again due to stricter compliance.
3. Structural vs Cosmetic
A cosmetic facelift (think: tiling, cabinetry, painting) will always be cheaper than any job that touches plumbing, electrical, or structural walls. If you’re knocking down or building new walls, you’re into structural territory.
4. Materials and Finishes
Custom joinery, stone benchtops, or designer tapware will drive up costs quickly. On the flip side, smart material choices can deliver a premium finish on a modest budget.
5. Site Access and Location
Tight blocks, sloping sites, or properties with limited street access may increase labour and transport costs. Also, trades and suppliers in inner-city suburbs can come at a premium.
Breakdown by Room or Area
Here’s a general idea of what you might spend per space in your Sydney home:
- Kitchen: $25,000–$60,000+
- Bathroom: $20,000–$40,000
- Living room refresh: $10,000–$30,000
- Bedroom upgrade: $10,000–$25,000
- Home extensions: $2,000–$4,000 per m²
- Second-storey additions: $250,000 and up
The type of finishes and whether you’re changing plumbing or electrical systems will have a major effect on the final figure.
Renovation vs Knockdown Rebuild – What’s Cheaper?
Surprisingly, if your renovation is complex and involves major structural changes, a knockdown rebuild could actually work out cheaper per square metre. Why? New builds are often more straightforward for trades and involve fewer surprises.
If you’re unsure whether your house is worth saving, check out our article: Should I Renovate or Rebuild?
Hidden Costs You Might Not Expect
It’s easy to focus on construction costs and forget about the extras. Don’t overlook:
- Council approval and fees
- Architectural drawings or planning consultants
- Temporary accommodation
- Demolition or site prep
- Upgrades to existing infrastructure
- Asbestos removal (very common in Sydney homes)
We always recommend adding a 10–15% contingency buffer to your budget, just in case something unexpected crops up which, in renovations, it usually does.
Do You Need Council Approval for Renovations?
Not all renovations require approval, but if you’re making significant structural changes, altering the footprint, or adding a storey, chances are you’ll need a Development Application (DA).
If your project fits within certain guidelines, you might qualify for fast-tracked approval through a Complying Development Certificate (CDC).
At Ardent, we take care of all the red tape, from design to final sign-off. Learn more about our project management services if you’d like a stress-free path through the approvals maze.
Tips for Keeping Costs Down (Without Cutting Corners)
- Stick to the original plan, changes mid-project cost time and money
- Keep plumbing and electrical in the same positions where possible
- Use off-the-shelf cabinetry and fixtures
- Mix high-end features with cost-effective materials
- Work with a builder early to help value-engineer your design
You can explore more of our approach on the home renovations page.
So, What Will It Really Cost You?
It depends, but hopefully this gives you a clearer picture.
If you’re just refreshing the kitchen or bathroom, you might get away with $40k–$60k. Planning a major extension or full-home overhaul? You’re likely in six-figure territory.
Whatever stage you’re at, the best first step is a chat. At Ardent Construction, we’ll give you an honest breakdown of what your renovation will cost, how long it’ll take, and where you could save without sacrificing quality.
Contact us here to book a no-obligation consultation. Let’s make your renovation plans a reality without the nasty surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions About House Renovation Costs in Sydney
If you’re renovating your entire home, a safe starting point is around $150,000 to $300,000+, depending on the size, condition, and the level of finishes you’re aiming for. Always include a buffer for unexpected costs.
It depends on the scope. If your home has major structural issues, outdated systems, or awkward layouts, a rebuild can sometimes be more cost-effective per square metre. But if the bones are solid and you’re happy with the layout, a renovation may be the smarter (and faster) choice.
For smaller projects, yes though it may be dusty and disruptive. For larger jobs (like kitchen and bathroom overhauls or structural work), you may need to move out temporarily. Factoring in short-term accommodation costs is important when budgeting.
Not always. If your changes are minor and comply with NSW planning rules, you may qualify for a Complying Development Certificate (CDC). More complex renovations typically require a Development Application (DA). At Ardent, we can manage this for you.
Kitchens and bathrooms usually take the biggest chunk of your budget due to plumbing, cabinetry, and tiling. Labour is also a major cost, particularly if there are structural changes or trades need to coordinate around each other.
Absolutely. We offer full design-and-build services, so you’re not juggling multiple contractors or consultants. From concept to completion, Ardent Construction manages it all under one roof.