Ben Court knockdown rebuild interior, St Helena by Hylton Constructions

Frequently Asked Questions - Knockdown Rebuilds, Extensions & Renovations

Straight answers from a working builder. Jump to the section that matches your project.

Knockdown Rebuild

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01

How much does a knockdown rebuild cost in Melbourne?

A typical 3–4 bedroom KDR in Melbourne’s north ranges from $600,000 to $1.2M+ depending on size, specification and site constraints. See our full cost guide for a detailed breakdown.

02

How long does a knockdown rebuild take?

18–24 months from first consultation to handover. Demolition and permits: 3–6 months. Construction: 12–16 months.

03

Can I stay in the home during a knockdown rebuild?

No. The home is demolished first. Most families rent during the build.

04

Is knockdown rebuild worth it?

For homes with significant structural issues, layouts that can’t be fixed by renovation, or where renovation costs approach rebuild costs — yes, a KDR often makes more financial and practical sense.

01

Do I need a planning permit for a home extension in Melbourne?

Not always. Many extensions under ResCode can proceed with a building permit only. Heritage overlays and specific site constraints may require planning approval. We assess this at the free consultation.

02

How long does a home extension take?

3–6 months on site from permit approval. Allow 2–4 months for design and permits before that.

03

How much does a second storey addition cost?

$250,000–$500,000+ depending on size and specification. See our Second Storey Additions page for details.

Renovations

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01

How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Melbourne?

From approximately $30,000 for a basic kitchen renovation. A full redesign with quality finishes typically runs $60,000–$100,000+.

02

How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Melbourne?

A standard bathroom renovation starts at approximately $20,000–$35,000. An ensuite or larger bathroom renovation may run $35,000–$60,000+.

Our Process

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01

When do you get involved in a project?

From day one. Before a contract is signed. We come in at concept and budget stage to make sure what’s being planned is actually achievable for what’s being budgeted. This is how projects stay on track.

02

Do you use subcontractors?

Yes — all builders use trades. The difference is how closely we manage them. Our trades are local, known to us and work in the same postcodes. We stay close to the job so problems get caught early.

03

Do you provide fixed-price contracts?

Yes. All our projects are priced on a fixed-price contract. Your quote is your price, not a starting point for variations.

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