What Builders Wish Clients Knew Before Starting a Project (And Why It Makes Everything Smoother)
- Emma Hannay
- Oct 29
- 3 min read
Starting a renovation or extension can feel a bit like stepping into the unknown. There are decisions to make, timelines to understand, and lots of moving parts along the way. And while every project is unique, there are a few things that builders really wish clients knew before the work begins — not to lecture, but to make everything calmer, clearer and more enjoyable.
Because the best projects happen when everyone is on the same side (which we are).
1. Begin With What You Want Life to Feel Like
Before talking layouts, steels and finishes, it helps to think about how you want to use your home.
Do you want:
A kitchen that finally works for family dinners?
A cosy, light-filled living space for relaxing evenings?
A layout that allows working from home without sitting at the end of the dining table?
When we understand the feeling you’re aiming for, not just the square footage, we can design so much better. A short list of “non-negotiables” goes a long way.
2. Budgets Aren’t Just Numbers — They’re Part of the Plan
It’s completely normal to have a figure in mind.
What many people don’t realise is how much that number is influenced by choice — tiles vs. parquet, bespoke joinery vs. ready-made cabinetry, bi-folds vs. French doors.
A realistic budget also includes a contingency for the unexpected (usually around 10–15%). Think of it as a small safety net that makes the journey feel less stressful.
Our role isn’t to push you higher — it’s to help guide decisions so your money goes where it matters most to you.
3. Timelines Have Stages — and Each One Matters
We know everyone wants to get started as soon as possible. But a great build usually includes:
Design and planning
Permissions or building control checks
Scheduling trades and ordering materials
The build itself
Taking time in the early stages saves frustration later — especially when choosing kitchens, windows and fixtures, which often have longer lead times.
A bit of patience at the start means a smoother finish at the end.
4. Communication Makes All the Difference
No question is too small.
No detail is too obvious.
And you’re never “bothering” us by asking.
We’d always rather talk something through than guess.
Regular updates, site chats, WhatsApp check-ins — they all help keep everyone aligned and prevent surprises.
Think of the project as a partnership — and we’re here to guide, explain and support at every step.
5. Yes, There Will Be Dust — But Only For a While
If you’re living at home during the works, it’s completely normal to feel a little unsettled at times.
We’ll always do our best to:
Protect as much as possible
Keep walkways clear
Help you plan temporary living arrangements (like a temporary kitchen or shifted furniture layout)
It is a short disruption — but it leads to a space that genuinely works better for your life.
6. Changes Are Normal
As the project takes shape, it’s very common to tweak a detail here and there. That’s part of the process. The earlier those decisions are made, the easier and more cost-effective they are to incorporate.
Messaging changes in writing (even a simple text) helps everyone stay aligned and ensures nothing is missed.
7. We Want the Same Thing You Do
This is possibly the most important point.
Builders want:
A high-quality finish
A space that feels special to you
A project we’re proud to stand behind
We’re on the same team.
The best outcomes come from trust, patience and working together.
A Final Word
Renovating a home is a journey — sometimes exciting, sometimes challenging, but always transformative. When we start with clarity, communicate openly and work as a team, the whole experience becomes more positive and far less stressful.
And remember: you don’t have to know everything.
That’s why you bring in people who do.
About Rogate Construction
Rogate Construction is a friendly, experienced building contractor working across Hampshire, West Sussex and Surrey. We specialise in home renovations, extensions, kitchens, bathrooms, structural alterations and full project delivery. Our aim is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible, guiding you from the first conversation to the final handover.
If you’d like to chat about a project — big or small — we’d be very happy to help.
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