- Investigate the existing condition before committing to the final scope.
- Price the interfaces between old and new, not only the visible finishes.
- Plan occupation, temporary services and unknown conditions explicitly.
Define what must change—and what should stay
Describe the problems the renovation needs to solve: cramped circulation, disconnected rooms, limited daylight, an inaccessible layout or an inefficient envelope. Then identify what you value about the existing house, garden and neighbourhood.
Compare at least two scope options before choosing one. A focused internal reconfiguration, an addition and a whole-home transformation may solve different parts of the brief. Compare what each option delivers and leaves unresolved rather than comparing headline construction costs alone.
Investigate before opening up the design
Gather existing drawings, past permit records, a survey if available, condition reports and photographs. Ask the design and construction team which investigations are needed for structure, moisture, electrical capacity, mechanical systems and potentially hazardous materials.
Some conditions remain concealed until work begins. Ask what can be tested in advance, what access is needed, who authorizes investigation and how findings will change the scope. Keep a written list of exclusions and assumptions rather than relying on a verbal understanding.
Plan the connections between old and new
An addition is not just a new room. Review roof connections, foundations, drainage, insulation continuity, heating and cooling, electrical distribution and the effect on adjacent finishes. Ask how existing surfaces will be protected and how disturbed areas will be made good.
Treat comfort as a whole-home question. Natural Resources Canada describes how the building envelope, heating, cooling and ventilation interact. An energy evaluation can help prioritize upgrades for an existing home.
Make the living arrangement part of the plan
Discuss whether the home can remain occupied safely, what areas will be inaccessible, and how long essential services may be interrupted. Map storage, temporary kitchens or bathrooms, pets, deliveries and temporary accommodation.
Include dust control, protection, secure access, cleanup and neighbour communication in the scope discussion. Agree on working arrangements and a contact for urgent site questions before the first demolition day.
Put scope and change control in writing
Ask for drawings, specifications, allowances, exclusions and a clear description of what the price covers. Establish who obtains permits, who approves changes, how changes affect time and cost, and when payments become due.
Ontario’s renovation guidance recommends detailed written estimates and contracts, with legal review for major work. Use the official guidance to prepare for that review; get advice on the agreement that actually governs your project. Bring available drawings, recent photographs and a ranked scope to the first renovation discussion.
A better first conversation.
- Which existing conditions should be investigated before pricing?
- What adjoining work and making-good are included?
- Can we occupy the home, and what would change that plan?
- How are discoveries and scope changes documented and approved?
References & further reading
Source pages checked 21 October 2026. Requirements may change; confirm the rules for your property and scope.
Use these guides to prepare your questions. Confirm property-specific requirements, scope and pricing with your project team.