Below is a collection of the most frequently asked questions we encounter when it comes to our home extensions, renovations, second-storey additions and granny flat services.
Do I need plans before I contact you?
No. Our consultant can meet with you at your home to discuss your ideas, requirements, and budget. From there, we can provide guidance on the best approach and options available. We also have in-house draftspersons who can prepare detailed plans if required.
If you already have existing house plans, that’s even better as it helps us better understand your home and provide more accurate advice from the outset.
Will I need council approval for a extension or renovation in Queensland?
In most cases, yes. Home extensions and renovations typically require council approval, along with a full set of plans and certifications. The good news is, we manage this entire process for you.
How long does council approval take for a renovation or extension in Queensland?
Timeframes vary depending on the council, workload, and complexity of the project. As a general guide, allow approximately 4–8 weeks for approvals.
Do we need to move out during construction?
Not always. While building works can be disruptive, we aim to minimise inconvenience wherever possible and respect your privacy throughout the process. For larger projects involving major services (such as water or electricity), a short period of relocation may occasionally be required.
Will my extension look like it was always part of the home?
Yes — that’s a key focus of our work. We specialise in seamlessly integrating new additions with existing homes. This includes careful matching of materials such as roofing, windows, doors, and external finishes to ensure a natural and cohesive result that enhances your home’s overall value.
How long will the build take?
Timeframes depend on the size, complexity, and design of the project, as well as approval requirements.
As a general guide, most home extension and renovation projects take approximately 6–9 months from the start of construction through to completion. Smaller, more straightforward projects may be completed sooner, while larger or more complex builds may take longer.
We will provide a clearer and more tailored timeframe once your plans have been reviewed and the full scope of works is understood.
What if I have questions during construction?
You will always have a dedicated point of contact throughout your project. Each build is overseen by our construction management team to ensure clear communication and support at every stage.
We also use CoConstruct, a client portal app that allows you to follow progress, view updates, and stay connected to your project in real time.
How much will my extension cost?
Every project is unique, and costs can vary depending on size, design, site conditions, and level of finish.
As a guide, we provide pricing based on your specific requirements after an initial consultation and review of your plans or concept. This allows us to give you a more accurate and realistic understanding of the investment required for your project.
We focus on transparency from the outset, so you have a clear understanding of what is included before any work begins.
What is included in your contract price?
Our contract price typically covers the full scope of construction works as outlined in your approved plans and specifications.
This includes project management, building works, and coordination of trades throughout the construction process.
In some cases, allowances or provisional sums may be included for items that are not fully defined at the time of contract, such as selections or specific finishes. These are clearly outlined so there are no surprises along the way.
Do you provide fixed-price contracts?
Yes, in most cases we provide fixed-price contracts based on approved plans and specifications.
Where certain elements are not fully defined at the time of contract, provisional sums or allowances may be included. Any variations during construction are clearly documented and communicated before proceeding.
This ensures clarity and transparency throughout the entire process.
What areas do you service?
Complete Home Extensions services South East Queensland, including Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and surrounding areas.
If you’re unsure whether we service your location, feel free to get in touch and we can confirm for you.
Can I make changes during construction?
Yes, changes can be made during construction if required. However, it’s important to understand that variations may impact both cost and timeframes depending on the nature of the change.
All variations are clearly documented and approved before any additional work is carried out, ensuring full transparency throughout the process.
What is your payment structure?
Our payment structure is set out clearly in your contract and follows standard building stages.
Typically, this includes an initial deposit, progress payments throughout the build, and a final payment upon completion. Each stage is aligned with completed works to ensure fairness and transparency.
Do you help with design and ideas?
Yes. We work with you from the early stages to help develop and refine your ideas into a practical and buildable design.
Our team can provide guidance on layouts, functionality, and design options, and we also have in-house drafting support available if required.
What makes you different from other builders?
Complete Home Extensions is a family-owned business with over 70 years of combined experience in the building industry.
We specialise in seamlessly integrating new additions with existing homes, ensuring the result feels natural, functional, and well considered.
Our focus is on clear communication, strong project management, and delivering a high standard of workmanship from start to finish.