Difference Between Substantial & Cosmetic Renovations
Can you describe the major difference between these two renovation types?
Substantial Renovations
Substantial renovations, also known as fundamental renovations involve replacing or removing foundational and structural elements of the home.
This may include:
Moving or removing interior supporting walls.
Extending the home or external walls.
Changing the location of windows or doors.
Relocating staircases.
Performing changes to the roof.
If the structural renovation work being undertaken requires building approval, the renovation can be categorised as substantial or structural.
Cosmetic Renovations
Cosmetic renovations are less invasive than substantial renovations and are focused on refurbishing the superficial and functional elements of the home.
These renovations are generally visual in nature and assist to refresh elements of the home in a cost effective way.
Cosmetic or Superficial Renovations examples may include:
Laying new flooring or carpet.
Painting.
Patching up minor cracks.
Redoing the bathroom tiles.
The Major Difference
To put basically, the difference between these two renovation types is their impact on the fundamental structure of the home.
Cosmetic renovations change the aesthetic appeal of the home, without impacting or changing the overall structure.
While substantial renovations affect the foundational structure of the dwelling and require building approval.