Introduction

The kitchen is often called the heart of the home. It's where meals are prepared, conversations happen, and memories are made. When you decide to renovate your kitchen, it’s a major investment in both lifestyle and home value. But without the right planning and a clear kitchen renovation checklist, it’s easy to run into cost blow-outs, delays, and unnecessary stress.

This renovation checklist takes you through every stage, from planning and design to installation and finishing touches. Whether you’re starting a full kitchen remodel or a smaller upgrade, this guide will help you stay organised and on budget.

1. Define Your Goals and Budget

Know what you want

Decide what your renovation should achieve. Do you need more storage, better lighting, or an open-plan layout? Are you refreshing your kitchen or rebuilding completely as part of a home renovation?

Set a realistic budget

Your budget will depend on the size of your kitchen, materials, and the work required. Always include a 10–20% buffer for unexpected costs like hidden plumbing or electrical issues. Contact Dependabuild for a quote

Prioritise your must-haves

List your essentials, energy-efficient appliances, durable benchtops, or more bench space. Then note what’s nice to have but optional. This makes decision-making easier if costs rise.

2. Plan Your Design and Layout

Work with a professional kitchen designer

A good kitchen designer can help you plan a functional layout that fits your lifestyle. They’ll make sure your space flows, looks great, and meets building standards.

Focus on function

Think about how you use your kitchen daily. Keep your sink, stove, and fridge close together for efficiency, the classic “work triangle.” Make sure you have enough space to move freely between zones.

Choose your materials

Select durable and easy-to-clean surfaces.

Cabinetry: Moisture-resistant finishes that suit your style.
Benchtops: Stone, laminate, or solid surface options.
Splashback: Tiles or glass that are easy to wipe down.
Flooring: Non-slip and long-wearing for high-traffic areas.

Plan smart storage solutions

Include drawers for pots, corner pull-outs, and vertical storage. Smart storage solutions keep clutter out of sight and make everyday cooking easier.

3. Plumbing, Electrical, and Structural Work

Assess existing services

Review where your plumbing, gas, and power points are located. Moving them adds cost, so decide early if it’s worth the upgrade.

Ensure compliance

Licensed trades must handle plumbing and electrical work. Check that everything meets Australian standards and get compliance certificates for your records.

Think ventilation and lighting

Plan for rangehood ducts, ceiling lights, and power outlets. Task lighting under cabinets and pendants over islands improve both style and practicality.

4. Ordering Materials and Scheduling

Order early

Custom cabinets, benchtops, and imported appliances can take weeks to arrive. Order early to avoid delays.

Plan your timeline

Good project management is key. Schedule each stage, demolition, plumbing, tiling, cabinetry, and final inspection, in the right order. Build in extra time for deliveries or trade availability.

Create a temporary setup

If your kitchen will be out of action, set up a mini station with a microwave, kettle, and portable cooktop to get through the renovation comfortably.

5. Demolition and Rough-In

Remove the old kitchen

Clear out all cabinets, benchtops, and appliances. Protect nearby rooms from dust. Make sure power and water are safely disconnected.

Rough-in services

Your plumber and electrician will install pipes and wiring for your new layout. This is also the best time to upgrade outdated systems for long-term reliability.

Waterproofing and framing

If any walls or floors need waterproofing or reinforcing, get it done before tiling and cabinetry.

6. Install Cabinets, Benchtops, and Flooring

Cabinet installation

Start with the base units, followed by wall cabinets. Check that everything is level and securely fixed, it’ll save headaches later.

Benchtops and splashback

Once cabinets are in, fit the benchtop and install the splashback. These features define your style, so choose finishes that complement the rest of your design.

Flooring

Install durable, non-slip flooring that can handle moisture and foot traffic. Vinyl, tile, or engineered timber are great options for busy kitchens.

7. Fixtures, Appliances, and Finishing Touches

Appliances

Fit your oven, cooktop, rangehood, dishwasher, and fridge. Test everything before sealing in place.

Fixtures and lighting

Install your sink, tapware, and final lighting fittings. Combine task, ambient, and accent lights for a layered look.

Finishing details

Add handles, trims, and accessories to complete the look. These small touches make your kitchen feel polished and personal.

8. Quality Check and Clean-Up

Inspect every detail

Walk through your finished kitchen with your builder. Check cabinet alignment, benchtop joins, lighting, and appliance operation.

Clean up

Remove dust and debris, polish surfaces, and make sure sealants are applied. Store all manuals and warranties safely for future reference.

9. Maintenance Tips

Keep rangehood filters clean for better airflow.
Wipe spills immediately to protect benchtops and grout.
Check seals and caulking yearly.
Service appliances regularly.
Update handles or paint for a quick future refresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring workflow and storage during design.
Skipping professional help for plumbing and electrical work.
Underestimating costs or timelines.
Choosing low-quality materials that wear quickly.
Forgetting ventilation and lighting planning.

Kitchen Renovation Checklist

Use this quick checklist to plan, manage, and track your kitchen renovation from start to finish.

Planning

☐ Define your goals and design style
☐ Set a clear budget with a 10–20% contingency
☐ Identify must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
☐ Gather inspiration and create a mood board
☐ Measure your space accurately

Design & Layout

☐ Work with a professional kitchen designer
☐ Plan an efficient layout (sink, stove, fridge triangle)
☐ Choose cabinetry, benchtops, flooring, and splashback materials
☐ Include smart storage solutions (drawers, pull-outs, vertical storage)
☐ Plan for lighting, power points, and ventilation

Pre-Construction

☐ Review plumbing, gas, and electrical locations
☐ Confirm if any council approvals are needed
☐ Hire licensed trades (builder, plumber, electrician, tiler)
☐ Order materials early to avoid delays
☐ Create a realistic project timeline

During Construction

☐ Remove old fixtures and appliances safely
☐ Protect nearby rooms from dust and debris
☐ Complete rough-in for plumbing and electrical
☐ Install waterproofing and framing as needed
☐ Fit cabinetry, benchtops, and splashback
☐ Install flooring, fixtures, and appliances

Finishing Touches

☐ Install handles, trims, and accessories
☐ Test all lighting, power, and appliances
☐ Check plumbing for leaks
☐ Clean and polish all surfaces
☐ Collect warranties, certificates, and manuals

Post-Renovation

☐ Review the finished space with your builder
☐ Confirm all items on the checklist are complete
☐ Schedule regular maintenance (sealant, appliance servicing)
☐ Enjoy your new kitchen!

Let Dependabuild handle every step of your kitchen renovation, from design and project management to installation and finishing touches. Our experienced team delivers quality craftsmanship and seamless results, so you can enjoy a beautiful new kitchen without the stress. Get in touch today

FAQs

Q1: How long does a kitchen renovation take?

Most projects take 6–10 weeks depending on size and complexity. Smaller updates or partial remodels can finish in 3–4 weeks.

Q2: What budget should I plan for?

Every kitchen renovation is different and the total cost depends on a number of different factors. Always include a contingency for unexpected expenses. Contact Dependabuild for a quote.

Q3: Do I need council approval?

You usually don’t if the layout stays the same, but moving walls, windows, or gas lines may need permits. Check with your local council.

Q4: How do I choose a kitchen designer?

Look for designers experienced in kitchen renovation who can manage both style and practicality. Ask for examples of past projects and reviews.

Q5: How can I add more storage?

Use vertical cabinets, deep drawers, and corner pull-outs. Built-in organisers and smart storage solutions maximise space in small kitchens.

Q6: How do I manage the renovation smoothly?

Good project management helps keep trades, deliveries, and inspections on time. Work with experienced professionals who can coordinate the process for you.

Conclusion

A successful kitchen renovation blends design, practicality, and quality workmanship. By following this checklist, you’ll plan efficiently, avoid costly mistakes, and achieve a kitchen that looks beautiful and works perfectly.

At Dependabuild, we specialise in custom kitchen renovations across Sydney’s Northern Beaches and North Shore. Whether you need a small remodel or a full transformation, our team can manage every stage, from design and trades to the finishing details.

Ready to start your kitchen remodel? Contact Dependabuild today to discuss your ideas and get expert guidance on your next home renovation project.