What to check before starting a full home renovation
From inspections to electrical panels, here are the things that catch homeowners out and how to avoid them.
A full home renovation is a big commitment. Before you sign a contract or swing a hammer, there are a few things worth checking. These are the issues that catch homeowners out and add time and money to a project.
Electrical panel capacity
Older homes in Austin often have 100-amp or even 60-amp service. If you're adding square footage, a tankless water heater, an EV charger, or modern HVAC, you'll likely need a panel upgrade to 200 amps. This adds $2k-$4k and requires coordination with the utility company. Check early.
Plumbing condition
If your home was built before 1980, the supply lines may be galvanized steel or polybutylene — both are prone to failure. A renovation is the time to replace them. Have a plumber camera-inspect your sewer line too. A broken sewer line under the slab can add $10k+ to your project.
Foundation and structure
Have a structural engineer inspect the foundation before planning any structural changes. In Central Texas, expansive clay soils cause foundation movement. If your foundation needs leveling or reinforcement, do it before the renovation — not after.
Asbestos and lead paint
Homes built before 1978 may have lead paint. Homes built before 1980 may have asbestos in floor tiles, popcorn ceilings, or ductwork. Both require professional abatement. This is not a DIY situation and it adds cost to demolition. Test before you plan the demo.
HVAC load calculations
If you're changing the footprint or opening up walls, your existing HVAC system may not handle the new load. Have an HVAC contractor do a Manual J calculation. Upgrading the system during renovation is far cheaper than doing it later when walls are closed.
Permits and inspections
A full renovation in Austin requires building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits. Each trade gets inspected at rough-in and final. Your contractor should handle all permits and schedule inspections — but you should know the timeline so you're not surprised.
The takeaway
Spend $1,000 on inspections before you spend $300,000 on a renovation. The surprises you prevent are always more expensive than the inspections that find them.
Ridgeview Construction Co.
Austin & Texas Hill Country
