How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Melbourne's northern suburbs?

Kitchen renovations in suburbs like Brunswick, Reservoir and Preston typically range from $15,000 for a cosmetic refresh to $60,000+ for a full structural renovation with new cabinetry, benchtops, splashback and appliances. We collect quotes from multiple local tradies so you can compare real prices side by side.

Are the builders and tradies VBA registered?

Yes. Every tradie we connect you with holds a current Victorian Building Authority (VBA) registration. We don't list unlicensed operators. You can also verify any tradie's licence yourself at vba.vic.gov.au before signing anything.

Will I get cold-called by random tradies after submitting my details?

No. Your details are only shared with tradies who are a genuine match for your job and suburb. We don't sell your information to lead brokers or third-party lists. You choose who to engage — nothing gets passed on without your knowledge.

How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Melbourne?

A basic bathroom renovation runs from around $8,000–$15,000. A full wet area renovation with new tiles, plumbing, waterproofing and fixtures is typically $18,000–$35,000. Getting at least two or three quotes is essential — and that's exactly what we help you do.

How long does a kitchen or bathroom renovation actually take?

A bathroom typically takes 2–4 weeks once trades are booked. A kitchen runs 3–6 weeks depending on whether cabinetry is custom or flatpack. Extensions vary widely — a single-storey rear extension might be 10–16 weeks from permit to completion.

What areas in Melbourne do you cover?

We focus on Melbourne's northern suburbs — Brunswick, Coburg, Preston, Reservoir, Thornbury, Northcote, Bundoora, Lalor, Pascoe Vale, Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Strathmore, Oak Park, Glenroy, Hadfield, Fawkner, Broadmeadows, Tullamarine, Gladstone Park, Mill Park, Thomastown, Greensborough, Eltham, Fitzroy North and Diamond Creek.

Is it actually free to get quotes through Melb Renovations?

Yes — completely free for homeowners. You describe your project, we match you with vetted local tradies, they quote you directly. You're under no obligation to accept any quote. We're paid by the tradies, not you.

Home Extensions in Melbourne's Northern Suburbs — What You Need to Know Before You Build

Q: Do I need a building permit for a home extension in Victoria?

Most extensions over 10m² require a building permit in Victoria. Your builder is legally required to obtain it before work starts. The tradies we work with handle permits as part of the job.

Home extension construction aerial view Essendon Melbourne northern suburbs

Space is the one thing you cannot buy more of in Melbourne's northern suburbs. Land is tight, blocks are established, and moving to a bigger home means paying stamp duty, agent fees, and a premium for something that might not be in the suburb you want.

That is why home extensions have become one of the most in-demand renovation projects across suburbs like Coburg, Brunswick, Essendon, Reservoir, Preston, Northcote, and Moonee Ponds. Instead of moving out, homeowners are building up and building back — adding bedrooms, second living areas, open plan kitchen and dining extensions, and second storeys to homes that have good bones but not enough space.

Here is everything you need to know before you start.

Types of Home Extensions

Not all extensions are the same. The right type for your home depends on your block, your budget, and what you are trying to achieve.

Rear single storey extension: The most common type in Melbourne's northern suburbs. This involves extending the back of the home to create a larger open plan living, kitchen, and dining area. Often paired with a deck or outdoor entertaining area. Most straightforward in terms of planning and construction.
Side return extension: Uses the narrow strip of land down the side of the home, common in terrace-style properties in suburbs like Northcote, Brunswick, and Fitzroy North. Adds width to existing rooms and can transform a dark, narrow kitchen into a bright open plan space.
Second storey addition: Adds an entirely new level to a single storey home, typically including additional bedrooms, a bathroom, and sometimes a parents retreat. Higher cost but delivers the largest increase in floor space without reducing your backyard.
Garage conversion or addition: Converting an existing garage or adding a new structure to create a home office, studio, or additional living space. A cost-effective way to add functional space without a full structural extension.

Home extension timber frame construction Pascoe Vale Melbourne

What Does a Home Extension Cost in Melbourne's Northern Suburbs?

Extension costs vary significantly depending on type, size, and finish level. As a general guide for Melbourne's northern suburbs in 2026:

Single storey rear extension:

,500 to $3,500 per square metre. A 30 square metre extension typically costs between $75,000 and

05,000 including demolition, structure, roofing, windows, and internal finishes. Kitchen and bathroom inclusions add to this figure.

Second storey addition: $3,000 to $4,500 per square metre. A full second storey on a standard suburban home typically runs

80,000 to $350,000 depending on size, structural requirements, and finish level.

Side return extension: $60,000 to

20,000 depending on length and complexity. Often involves significant structural work to open up the side wall.

These are indicative figures. The best way to get an accurate number for your specific home is to get a quote from a VBA-licensed builder who has assessed the property.

Do You Need a Building Permit for a Home Extension in Victoria?

In most cases, yes. Any structural extension to a home in Victoria requires a building permit issued by a registered building surveyor. This applies to single storey extensions, second storey additions, and most garage conversions involving structural work.

Your builder should manage the building permit application on your behalf. If a builder tells you a permit is not required for structural work, or asks you to handle the application yourself, treat that as a red flag.

Planning permits may also be required depending on your local council, the size of the extension, and the overlay on your property. In suburbs like Northcote and Brunswick, heritage overlays can affect what is permitted and what design requirements apply. A good builder will advise you on this before work begins.

Second storey addition construction Pascoe Vale Melbourne northern suburbs

How Long Does a Home Extension Take?

As a general guide:

Single storey rear extension: 10 to 16 weeks from permit approval to completion.
Second storey addition: 16 to 28 weeks depending on complexity.

These timelines begin after the building permit is issued, which itself can take 4 to 8 weeks. Factor in design and documentation time before that and a realistic timeline from first conversation to completion is 6 to 12 months for most extensions.

Starting the process early is the single biggest thing homeowners can do to reduce frustration with timelines.

What to Look for in an Extension Builder

Home extensions are complex builds. They involve structural engineering, waterproofing, roofing, electrical, plumbing, and joinery — often while you are living in the home. Choosing the wrong builder is expensive and stressful to fix.

In Victoria, any builder carrying out structural extension work must hold a current Domestic Builder Unlimited licence issued by the Victorian Building Authority. This is not optional and it is not negotiable. Always verify the licence before signing any contract. You can check any builder's licence status directly on the VBA website.

Beyond the licence, look for a builder who communicates clearly, provides a detailed written contract with a fixed scope of works, and has a track record of completed extensions in the northern suburbs.

Every builder in the MelbRenovations network holds a current VBA licence, carries public liability insurance, and has been manually vetted before receiving a single lead from us.

Ready to Get Your Extension Quote?

Tell us about your extension project and we will match you with a vetted, VBA-licensed local builder in your suburb — completely free, no obligation to proceed.