Frequently asked questions

Our 2018-2020 Coorparoo project cost $331,510 across 112.5 m² of habitable build-under, owner-builder procurement. Brisbane construction has moved since. Use the categories and ratios as a sense-check, not a current quote. See /the-project/budget-and-costs/.

Yes, in Queensland, if you are managing the project yourself (engaging trades, signing off on work) you need a QBCC owner-builder permit. The permit is property-specific and requires completion of an approved education course. See /planning-your-renovation/qbcc-requirements/.

Our Coorparoo project ran 18 months from first engineering conversation to certifier sign-off. The raise itself is a single-day event but everything around it (approvals, utility disconnects, slab, frame, services, fit-off) stretches the overall timeline.

Typically yes, by roughly 33% versus a fixed-price builder contract, because you avoid builder margin. The trade-off is your time, admin and legal responsibility as the nominated owner-builder. See /planning-your-renovation/owner-builder-reality/.

Electrical (especially upstairs board upgrades), windows (price and lead-time), engineering variations and external works. Budget a 15-20% contingency above your project envelope. See /planning-your-renovation/budget-blowouts/.

Most Queenslander raises in Brisbane require a development approval (DA) and a building permit. Properties in character or heritage overlays have additional constraints. See /planning-your-renovation/approvals-and-council/.

No. All figures are from a 2018-2020 Coorparoo project. They are historical reference data. Use them as a structural sense-check alongside current trade quotes. See /methodology/ for how the figures should be used.

No, this is not a referral service. The /partners/ section lists business categories and the criteria for evaluating professionals. You must independently verify licences, insurance and suitability.