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Scorecard

Renovation Readiness Score

The average US home renovation goes 15% over budget and 2 months past deadline according to Houzz survey data. Answer 10 questions about your project scope, budget, and permits to score your renovation readiness. Avoid the most common mistakes before construction starts.

Last updated: May 2026

A renovation readiness scorecard assesses your preparedness across 8 key dimensions before starting a renovation: budget, contractor selection, planning permission, design, timeline, living arrangements, insurance, and contingency planning. Score = Sum of (Category Score) across 8 areas, each rated 0-10. Kitchen reno readiness typically target 70-100.

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What is Renovation Readiness Score?

A renovation readiness scorecard assesses your preparedness across 8 key dimensions before starting a renovation: budget, contractor selection, planning permission, design, timeline, living arrangements, insurance, and contingency planning. A low score signals that starting work now risks budget overruns, delays, and unnecessary stress.

The Formula

Score = Sum of (Category Score) across 8 areas, each rated 0-10

Worked Example

A homeowner planning a kitchen renovation assesses their readiness across all 8 dimensions.

Budget planning: Have rough figure but no itemized budget (4/10)
Contractor selection: One quote received, no references checked (3/10)
Building permits: Confirmed not needed for internal works (9/10)
Design: Pinterest board but no technical drawings (4/10)
Timeline: Verbal estimate of 6-8 weeks from builder (5/10)
Living arrangements: Plan to live in during works (7/10)
Insurance: Not checked policy covers renovation works (5/10)
Contingency: Set aside 10% buffer (5/10), recommended is 15-20%

📌 Total readiness score: 52/100, not ready to start. Priority actions: get 3 quotes, commission technical drawings, and increase contingency to 20% before beginning.

Why This Matters

Budget control

Renovation budgets overrun by an average of 20-30%. Homeowners who score above 70 on readiness experience overruns of less than 10% because detailed planning catches hidden costs before work starts.

Timeline management

Poorly planned renovations take 40-60% longer than estimated. Securing building permits, finalizing designs, and agreeing a detailed schedule before starting prevents the cascading delays that derail projects.

Stress reduction

Renovation stress is cited as worse than moving by 45% of homeowners. Thorough preparation, especially around living arrangements and contingency funds, significantly reduces anxiety during the build.

Common Mistakes

❌ Underestimating budget by 30-50%

Most homeowners forget to include costs for permit fees, dumpster rental, temporary kitchen facilities, and decoration after structural work. A detailed line-by-line budget prevents nasty surprises.

❌ Not getting 3 or more quotes

Single quotes provide no benchmark. Three comparable quotes reveal the market rate and highlight where individual contractors include or exclude key items.

❌ Skipping building permit checks

Assuming work is exempt from permitting is risky. Retroactive permit applications cost $2,000-5,000 and can require demolition of non-compliant work.

Industry Benchmarks

Category	Good	Average	Poor
Kitchen reno readiness	70-100	40-70	Below 40
Addition readiness	75-100	45-75	Below 45
Attic conversion readiness	75-100	45-75	Below 45

Source: NAHB and Remodeling Magazine Consumer Survey

Benchmark data sourced from NAHB and Remodeling Magazine Consumer Survey.

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One of the most common mistakes we see when working with clients: underestimating budget by 30-50%. Most homeowners forget to include costs for permit fees, dumpster rental, temporary kitchen facilities, and decoration after structural work. A detailed line-by-line budget prevents nasty surprises.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I am ready to renovate?

You are ready to renovate when you have a clear budget with 10-15% contingency, at least three comparable quotes, confirmed building permits if required, a realistic timeline, and a plan for where you will live during major works. Missing any of these increases the risk of delays and cost overruns.

What renovation budget should I set aside?

As a rule of thumb, a full house renovation costs $100-$200 per square foot for a standard finish and $200-$350 for a high-end finish. A typical 3-bedroom home costs $60,000-$150,000 for a comprehensive renovation including kitchen, bathroom, and redecoration.

Do I need a building permit?

Most internal renovations and like-for-like replacements do not need a building permit. Additions, attic conversions changing the roofline, and work in historic districts usually require permit approval. Always check with your local building department before starting work.

How do I find a good contractor?

Start with personal recommendations from neighbors or friends. Check for a valid state contractor license and BBB rating. Visit a current job site, ask for at least three references, verify insurance, and confirm they provide written contracts with itemized quotes.

What contingency should I allow?

Allow 10-15% of total project cost for standard renovations and 15-20% for older properties where hidden problems like moisture damage, asbestos, or structural issues are more likely. Contingency covers unexpected costs that arise once walls are opened up or floors lifted.

How long do renovations take?

A kitchen renovation takes 2-4 weeks, a bathroom 1-3 weeks, an attic conversion 6-10 weeks, and a full house renovation 3-6 months. Add 2-4 weeks for permitting delays and material lead times. Winter projects often take 10-20% longer due to weather and shorter daylight hours.

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