Home renovations in Adelaide — costs, permits and finding a builder
What to budget, when you need approval, and how to hire a builder you can trust.
Do I need a permit in Adelaide?
In South Australia, most structural renovations, extensions and additions require a Development Application (DA) or building approval. Contact your local council or Consumer and Business Services SA before work begins.
Average renovation costs in Adelaide 2026
| Project | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Kitchen renovation | $15,000 – $45,000 |
| Bathroom renovation | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Home extension (per sqm) | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| New deck | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Painting (full exterior) | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Roof replacement | $8,000 – $25,000 |
Choosing a builder in Adelaide
- Check the builder's licence with Consumer and Business Services SA (CBS).
- Get at least 3 written quotes, itemised by trade and materials.
- Confirm public liability and workers compensation insurance is current.
- Ask for 3 recent project references and inspect previous work where possible.
- Insist on a written contract — for work over $12,000 SA law requires one.
Owner-builder in Adelaide
In SA an owner-builder licence is required for projects valued over $12,000. Apply through Consumer and Business Services SA before work commences.