The Block is back for 2026 and its contestants are already facing a major new hurdle before the first room has even been judged.Host Scott Cam unveiled sweeping changes during Sunday night’s premiere, revealing a new House Decider challenge, strict council-imposed work-hour restrictions and the budgets teams will have to work with to transform the luxury Mount Eliza homes.’What I’ve got here, you’re not going to believe,’ Cam teased as he unveiled the season’s 12-week renovation schedule, floor plans – and the rules that could determine who walks away a winner.The biggest shake-up to the long-running Channel Nine home reno show comes immediately.Rather than moving straight into their homes, the five teams will spend the opening week renovating a guest bedroom in a property they may not even end up keeping.The winners of the first room reveal will earn first pick of the five luxury homes, while the team finishing last will be left with whichever property remains. The Block is back for 2026 and its contestants are already facing a major new hurdle before the first room has even been judged. Host Scott Cam unveiled sweeping changes during Sunday night’s premiere, revealing strict council-imposed work-hour restrictions Choosing wisely could prove crucial, with each house offering its own advantages.The biggest surprise, however, is a new set of time restrictions that could dramatically alter the pace of the competition.In line with local council requirements, tradies and contestants will only be allowed on site from 7am to 6pm on weekdays, with reduced hours of 9am to 3pm on Saturdays. Meanwhile, Sundays will be reserved exclusively for judging.’It’s going to be tough. same restricted council hours as everyone else in Mount Eliza,’ Cam warned.’If I was a contestant, I would be very anxious at the time restriction we have got. You would be thinking, “How can we fit all this into these hours?” You have to have the right team and a good attitude!’ series veteran Foreman Dan Reilly added. The tighter schedule means time management will become just as important as design, with contestants losing valuable hours they previously relied on to finish rooms.Each team will receive $250,000 to complete their renovations, along with a $40,000 Bunnings PowerPass and the show’s signature Block Bucks. ‘If I was a contestant I would be very anxious at the time restriction we have got. You would be thinking, “How can we fit all this into these hours?” You have got to have the right team and a good attitude!’ series veteran Foreman Dan Reilly added New contestant Tayla couldn’t hide her shock at hearing the strict rulesThis year’s competition is set in the wealthy Mornington Peninsula suburb of Mount Eliza, where the five luxury homes boast sweeping views across Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline.Houses 1, 2 and 3 sit on elevated blocks with uninterrupted water views, while Houses 4 and 5 are larger, offering an extra 50 square metres of floor space and bigger backyards despite only partial bay views.It’s already sparked plenty of strategy among the contestants.New Blockheads Adam and Jolene have their sights set on House 4 if they can add another level, while Rick and Tayla are hoping to secure House 2 for its tree-lined outlook and ocean views.Courtney and Sev also believe House 4 boasts the strongest floor plan, while Chantel and Wyatt are chasing one of the elevated homes for the coveted water and city vistas.The renovation schedule kicks off with a guest bedroom before teams tackle family bathrooms, master suites, ensuites, sprawling living areas, kitchens and rumpus rooms over the coming weeks.With a new house-selection twist and tighter deadlines than ever before, this year’s Block is shaping up to be a suspenseful race against both the clock.The Block continues Monday at 7:30pm on Channel Nine and 9Now.