Renovating your home is one of the most rewarding investments you can make—but it’s also one of the easiest projects to underestimate. Homeowners in Markham and York Region often start with a clear budget in mind, only to see it slowly creep higher due to hidden costs and unexpected challenges.
At Nova Decor, we’ve seen the same budget-busting mistakes happen across kitchen, bathroom, and full-home renovations. Here’s what you need to watch out for—and how to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Changing the Scope Mid-Project
Scope creep is the silent budget killer. You begin with one vision, but after the demo, you decide to change the flooring, add lighting, or upgrade fixtures. These changes quickly add to both labour and materials.
Real Example: In Thornhill, a homeowner added a fireplace feature wall mid-renovation. Between the stonework, framing, and electrical changes, it added over $8,000 to the final bill.
How to Avoid It: Finalize your plans before construction begins. Leave room in your budget (at least 15%) for flexibility—but avoid making design decisions on the fly.
Moving Plumbing or Electrical
Any time you shift a toilet, sink, or light fixture, you’re not just changing placement—you’re rerouting systems hidden behind walls. That means more time, higher costs, and possibly permit approvals.
Markham Insight: Older homes in Unionville and Milliken Mills often require full electrical rewiring to meet current code when new layouts are introduced.
What to Do Instead: If your existing layout functions well, work around it. Upgrading finishes without moving major components will keep your costs under control.
Poor Planning and Design Gaps
One of the biggest mistakes we see is starting a renovation without a detailed plan. When layouts, materials, or finishes are undecided at the time of construction, delays and rework are almost guaranteed.
Avoid This By:
- Hiring a design-build team that integrates design and construction
- Using 3D modeling to visualize your space beforehand
- Choosing finishes early and sticking with them
Client Story: A family in Stouffville changed tile selections three times mid-reno. The stop-start process extended their bathroom remodel by 4 weeks and added $3,500 in reorders and labour.
Underestimating Permit and Inspection Costs
Permits vary by municipality and scope, but they’re often overlooked. Renovations involving structural, plumbing, or electrical changes usually require permits. And in heritage zones like Old Markham Village, approvals can be more involved.
Tip: Always confirm permit requirements with your contractor early. Nova Decor handles permitting for you, ensuring compliance and avoiding last-minute delays or fines.
Choosing the Cheapest Contractor
It’s tempting to go with the lowest quote, but price often reflects quality. We’ve seen clients hire the cheapest option only to pay double to fix poor workmanship later.
Look for Contractors Who:
- Are licensed and insured in Ontario?
- Provide detailed contracts with clear timelines
- Have strong reviews and local references
Local Advantage: Nova Decor works exclusively within York Region, bringing regional knowledge, vetted local trades, and supplier relationships that save you time and money.
Material Delays and Product Substitutions
Supply chain issues haven’t gone away. From imported tiles to appliances, delays are still common—and rushing to substitute products often leads to mismatches or regrets.
Solution:
- Order materials well in advance
- Build a timeline that allows for lead times.
- Stick with local or Canadian-made options when possible
Pro Tip: One client in Richmond Hill pre-ordered their appliances and stored them in a rented garage to avoid mid-project shortages.
Ignoring Hidden Issues Behind Walls
Once the demo begins, surprises can arise—such as mold, water damage, faulty wiring, or outdated plumbing. These issues are prevalent in homes built before 1990.
Plan for Discovery Work:
- Include a contingency in your budget
- Choose a contractor experienced in older home renovations
- Don’t cut corners if safety is involved
Nova Insight: In a recent Markham project, we uncovered galvanized pipes behind the walls, posing both insurance and health risks. Replacing them added cost, but also peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Successful renovation isn’t just about choosing beautiful finishes; it’s about smart planning, solid execution, and making informed decisions. By watching out for these seven common budget busters, you can avoid headaches and enjoy a smoother renovation experience.
Need help budgeting or planning your next project? Contact Nova Decor Construction Ltd. for a transparent quote and expert guidance tailored to your home in Markham or York Region.
Leave a Reply