Kitchen Renovation Checklist

Kitchen renovations Eastern Melbourne: planning checklist

Before you start

Write down what frustrates you about the current kitchen
Set a realistic budget tier (refresh, mid-range or premium)
Collect photos and references of kitchens you like
Note any fixed constraints: windows, doors, structural walls
Check whether your street sits in a heritage overlay

Design and planning

Confirm the layout and the work triangle (sink, cooktop, fridge)
Choose cabinetry style, door finish and handles
Choose a benchtop material (and confirm it meets current rules)
Plan lighting, power points and appliance positions
Decide on a butler's pantry (a secondary prep and storage room) if there is space

Quotes and contract

Get an itemised, fixed-price written quote
Confirm a written contract is in place for work over $10,000
Check the inclusions, exclusions and the variations process
Confirm domestic building insurance applies where required
Agree the start date, timeline and payment stages

During the build

Set up a temporary kitchen (fridge, microwave, kettle)
Confirm demolition, delivery and rubbish-removal access
Keep variations in writing as they come up
Inspect cabinetry and benchtop before sign-off
Collect warranties and compliance certificates at handover

Method and useful Victorian resources

Building registration and consumer guidance: vba.vic.gov.au
Domestic building contracts and cooling-off: consumer.vic.gov.au
Benchtop materials and silica (fine dust from cutting stone) safety: safeworkaustralia.gov.au