The Hidden Costs of Renovating a Downstairs Unit

As a property trader, I’ve tackled my fair share of renovations , some smooth, others full of surprises. One project that really opened my eyes was a downstairs unit that looked like a simple, low-budget reno on paper. But once we got started, I discovered just how many hidden costs were lurking beneath the surface.

Concrete floors = expensive plumbing changes

The biggest challenge came when we realised that any plumbing changes would require a concrete cutter. Because the unit sits on a concrete slab, every drain and waste that needed to move meant cutting into concrete and in one case raising the shower to get the fall correct.  And yes, plumbing needed to be moved,  the original layout was completely dysfunctional. 

By the time you factor in cutting, removal, disposal, and reinstating the concrete, those “small layout changes” quickly turned into one of the biggest line items in the budget.

No ceiling space = tricky electrical work

Another surprise? There’s no ceiling space to run new electrical wiring. With another unit directly above, electricians had to find creative (and time-consuming) ways to install new lighting and power points. Each workaround added extra labour time and, of course, extra cost.

Power to the island? Back to the concrete cutter

Usually one of my design must-haves is power to the island bench — something you’d think would be easy enough. But again, with no ceiling access and concrete floors, we had to forgo that idea an instead put in extra power points along kitchen bench  Cutting concrete seems a small detail that most people wouldn’t think twice about… until you get the quote.

The creativity challenge: balancing function and budget

With all these constraints, I had to get seriously creative to keep the project on track. When you’re renovating a downstairs or basement unit, you learn quickly where to compromise, where to invest, and how to make smart design choices that still deliver a great result without blowing the budget.

What looks like a simple “cosmetic reno” can hide a lot beneath the surface - literally.

If you’re planning to renovate a downstairs unit, factor in extra costs for plumbing, electrical, and any work involving concrete. Talk to your trades early, ask lots of questions about access, and always allow a contingency in your budget.

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