BuildzlyPlan smarter. Build better.

Home renovation checklist

By , Editor Last reviewed

Every step of a renovation, from scope to final payment, with the safety rules people miss. Tick items as you go: they save on this device. Each step links to the Buildzly tool that does it.

Your renovation (0 of 26 done)

1. Plan the scope
Planner →
Square footage →
Calculators →
Planner →
2. Permits and safety
3. Hire the right people
Compare quotes →
4. Prepare the house
5. During the work
Planner →
6. Finish and sign off

The rules that catch people out

Lead paint in homes built before 1978

EPA's Renovation, Repair and Painting rule covers homes built before 1978. Firms doing work that disturbs paint must be EPA-certified, even sole proprietorships, and must give you EPA's lead hazard pamphlet before starting. Minor repairs disturbing 6 sq ft or less of paint per room inside, or 20 sq ft or less outside, are exempt. Window replacement and demolition of painted surfaces are always covered.

Asbestos

Undamaged material is best left alone. If you suspect it where you're about to work (old vinyl floor tiles, sheet-flooring backing, adhesives), get an inspection first. Removal is a job for a trained, accredited professional.

Digging

Deck footings, fence posts and patio bases all mean digging. Contact 811, the free national before-you-dig service, a few business days ahead so buried utility lines get marked.

Water and mold

If anything gets wet during the work, dry it within 24–48 hours to prevent mold, and fix the source of the water. Otherwise the mold comes back.

Use the tools in order

  1. Calculators: quantities for concrete, paint, drywall, flooring, decks, fences and more.
  2. Project planner: budget, contingency, tasks and the materials from step 1.
  3. Contractor checklist: license, insurance, contract, and a quote comparison.
  4. Timeline planner: the work in inspection order, with a finish date and a calendar export.

Common questions

Does my renovation need a permit?

Often. The International Code Council says permits are usually required for additions, renovations, and electrical, plumbing and HVAC work, and that the best way to find out is to call your local building department. Rules are set locally, so ask before you start.

What is the EPA lead paint rule for renovations?

In homes built before 1978, renovation firms that disturb painted surfaces must be EPA-certified (including sole proprietors) and must give you EPA’s lead hazard pamphlet before starting. Small repairs that disturb 6 sq ft or less of paint per room inside, or 20 sq ft or less outside, are exempt. Window replacement and demolition of painted surfaces are covered whatever their size.

What should I do about asbestos?

Leave undamaged material alone, and get an inspection before remodeling if you suspect it, because remodeling can disturb it. EPA says removal must be done only by a trained and accredited asbestos professional. Older vinyl floor tiles, the backing on vinyl sheet flooring and adhesives are among the places it’s found.

How much contingency should I budget?

There’s no official figure. It depends on how many unknowns the project has: opening walls in an old house carries more risk than painting a room. Pick a percentage you’re comfortable with in the project planner, and it’s added to your total automatically.

What is a lien release?

If a contractor doesn’t pay subcontractors or suppliers, state law may let them file a mechanic’s lien against your home. The FTC suggests asking the contractor, and every subcontractor and supplier, for a lien release or lien waiver. The rules depend on your state.

Sources

Formulas and figures last checked against these sources on. Spotted an error? Tell us and we'll fix it.