What Common Problems Arise During Home Renovation Projects?
Posted: February 11th, 2026
Written by: Mark Siemer
What Common Problems Arise During Home Renovation Projects?
As the Space Coast fills in, more and more homeowners are choosing to renovate their home instead of moving to a new home. Planning a major renovation or home addition is exciting but they come with their own legal challenges. Being aware of these problems before you break ground can keep your project from stalling. Some of the most common legal issues on a renovation project start before you even break ground, such as variance applications and boundary disputes.
What is a Variance?
Every city and neighborhood are subject to certain land use restrictions and development restrictions. These might be a county ordinance, a city ordinance, or an HOA rule. Or all of the above. The classic example of this are the setbacks, which require all structures to be so many feet away from the property line. If your project is an addition, it is likely you will need to apply for a variance either because your square footage will increase, you are adding an accessory structure, or you might need to expand into the setbacks. Knowing if you will need a variance at the earliest stage is vital to a smooth project.
What are Your Property Boundaries?
When expanding your home or adding features like a new deck or fence, being sure of your property lines is essential. Even a small encroachment onto a neighbor’s lot can spark a serious boundary dispute. These conflicts can delay your project or even lead to costly legal action. Don’t rely on old fences or landscaping as guides—they’re often inaccurate because of repairs to the fences spread out of years, changes in the landscaping and attempts to accommodate easements and natural marks. In Florida, property boundaries are a matter of public record, so it’s smart to double-check with the county property appraiser’s office if you’re unsure.
You might find that you have more room to build than you thought. Or worse, your current property is not in compliance with the code, and any building permit application could spark corrective work you hadn’t planned for.
What if a Permit got Missed?
Knowing when a permit is required can be tricky. Especially if a project is being done in multiple phases. It’s tempting to assume that you do not need a permit because the job is small, or because the subcontractor that was hired by the homeowner didn’t say one was needed. But that is a dangerous gamble. Local building departments require permits for most major renovations, and failing to get them could mean stop-work orders, fines, or even having to tear down completed work. A complete tear down of a structure is unlikely, but not impossible. If you have an annoyed neighbor, it becomes more likely. Permits can also be important for getting the property insured.
Work with a licensed contractor who knows the local permitting process in your city or county. They can help you prepare the necessary drawings and paperwork, so your project stays compliant from day one.
What About Unhappy Neighbors?
Construction noise, dust, and traffic can easily strain relationships with neighbors. Most cities have noise ordinances that limit the hours construction can take place. Violating those rules could bring complaints and fines. If you are financing the project via a traditional construction loan, that could mean the loan stops disbursing funds until the complaints or fines are taken care of.
Before starting your project, let your neighbors know what’s coming. A friendly heads-up about the timing, noise, and duration of the work goes a long way. Even if your neighbor is not happy about your project, having that information in advance can be very valuable. It can tell you that you will need to keep track of your paperwork a little more closely or that you need to invest in a video camera to record who comes onto your property.
A Few Smart Steps Upfront
Renovating your home should be exciting, not stressful. Before work begins:
- Verify your property boundaries.
- Get all required permits.
- Talk to your neighbors.
By handling these legal details early, you’ll protect your investment—and your peace of mind—so you can focus on enjoying your beautifully improved home.
Contacting an attorney can help you identify the risks so you can make the best plan possible.
Mark Siemer, is a Construction Attorney with Volk Law Offices, P.A., has many years’ experience and can be reached at help@volklawoffices.com or by visiting VolkLaw online at VolkLawOffices.com. Read more about Attorney Mark Siemer. Call for a consultation: (321) 726-8338.
The matters discussed here are general in nature and are not to be relied upon as legal advice. Every specific legal matter requires specific legal attention.
The law is constantly changing and matters discussed today may not be the same tomorrow. Legal matters are also subject to different interpretations by attorneys, judges, jurors and scholars. No attorney-client relationship is intended or created as a result of matters discussed here. You should consult counsel of your choice if you have any dealings in these areas of the law. Volk Law Offices, P.A. and its attorneys make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the matters addressed.