Should You DIY Your Reno or Leave it to The Professionals?

Renovating your home is exciting, but deciding whether to roll up your sleeves or bring in a professional can feel like standing at a fork in the road. Both options have merit, and the right choice comes down to your skills, your schedule, your appetite for risk, and how perfect you need the final result to be.

When DIY makes sense.

DIY has its place and its limitations. It’s not just a way to save money; for many homeowners it’s also satisfying and allows for a more intimate connection with the project. However, it comes with more risks, and is often a more drawn-out process. 

You have existing skills.

If you’ve already spent time learning the ropes, have a few tools in the shed that aren’t still in their packaging, and know the difference between MDF and marine ply, DIY might be a good option. Small cosmetic projects like painting, landscaping, changing hardware, or installing flat-pack cabinetry often sit comfortably in the DIY zone.

You're working on low-risk updates. 

If a mistake won’t compromise the structure of your home or require specialist intervention, DIY can be safe and cost-effective. Think surface-level improvements rather than anything behind the walls, under the floors, or above the ceiling. 
 

You have (lots of) time.  

DIY almost always takes longer. If you can live with a semi-finished project for a while (or enjoy spending weekends in Bunnings) then DIY could suit you. You’re also more likely to heavily scrutinise your own work and want to redo it, maybe more than once, and this will extend the time it takes even more.

When a contractor is a better choice.

Hiring a professional isn’t just about convenience. It’s also about safety, efficiency and getting the kind of finish that actually adds value to your home.

Structural work, plumbing & electrical.  

Anything that involves load-bearing walls, waterproofing, gas, wiring or major layout changes absolutely belongs in the hands of licensed trades. Mistakes here can become costly or dangerous in ways that a YouTube tutorial simply can’t cover.

You want a polished, long-lasting finish.  

If you want a flawless kitchen, a custom wardrobe, a bathroom without leaks, or cabinetry that doesn’t warp after a Perth summer, a contractor will get you there. Unless you have experience or training in this kind of craftsmanship, the standard simply isn’t going to be the same. 

You want predictable timelines.  

DIY projects tend to expand, multiply, and linger. A contractor gives you deadlines, structure and a clear plan—and they’re motivated to finish the job properly the first time. At Atina, project management is included in every renovation (and no, this isn’t an industry standard). That means we carefully communicate, plan, track, and coordinate everything, including timelines.

Cost considerations. 

Many homeowners turn to DIY to save money, but it doesn’t always work out that way. Between tools, materials, mishaps, re-dos, and time off work, DIY can become more expensive than hiring a professional from the start. Contractors also have trade pricing, reliable supplier relationships, and the experience to avoid costly mistakes.

The hybrid approach. 

Not everything has to be one or the other. Many homeowners choose to DIY cosmetic elements and bring in contractors for structural work, tiling, cabinetry, benchtops or waterproofing. It’s a balanced way to stay hands-on while still protecting the integrity and resale value of your home.

How Atina Renovations can help you. 

Atina Renovations works with clients at all stages, from full design-and-build kitchen overhauls to supporting partial updates where our expert team handles the complex work. We can also guide you through what’s safe and realistic to DIY, and what absolutely deserves a professional touch.

Contact us to start the conversation.