What's NOT in a renovation estimate?
A renovation estimate usually covers the construction cost: materials and labour for the actual work. But your total project budget is broader. These are the most commonly forgotten items — budget for them separately so you avoid surprises.
Study and supervision costs
An architect is required for work on the load-bearing structure or for permit-requiring work, and typically costs 8 to 15% of the construction cost. For energy renovations in Flanders and Brussels an EPB reporter is added (roughly €600 to €1,500), and for larger sites with several contractors, a safety coordinator.
Permits and certificates
An urban-planning or environmental permit brings administrative costs — depending on the municipality, often in the order of €200 to €800, and an environmental permit takes longer. When selling a home in Flanders, an asbestos inventory has been mandatory since 2022 (around €400 to €800). Always check your municipal or regional desk for the exact fees.
Unforeseen work
Behind walls and in the ground lurk surprises: hidden damp, outdated pipes, a foundation in worse shape than expected. Trade sources recommend reserving 10 to 20% of the construction cost as a buffer — towards the higher end for older homes. This isn't a luxury but a realistic expectation.
Living elsewhere during the work
A full renovation often makes a home uninhabitable for months. Temporary rent, storage of your belongings and double moving costs are hard to estimate but very real. Plan for this from the start, especially for major work.
Furnishing and the last 10%
Furniture, lighting, curtains, garden landscaping and the countless small finishing choices often fall outside your contractor's quote, but determine whether your home feels finished. In DomiReno you can add such personal items as an extra line, so they count towards your total.
A construction cost is not the same as a project budget. Add study, permit, buffer, living and furnishing costs on top — and use an honest range. That way the number you plan with is the number that holds up.
Ready to see your own number?
Enter your home and get a realistic estimate with a range, grants and EPC impact.